Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of the four modules of training, the student should be able to do the following:

Describe the types of physical evidence typically encountered at a property crime scene.
Define Locard's Exchange Principle.
Describe types of trace and biological evidence.
Define "touch DNA" evidence.
Explain the importance of maintaining the integrity of physical evidence.
List and describe the three types of crime scenes.
Describe the process used to secure and investigate a crime scene.
Describe the purpose of a victim interview.
Describe methods used to locate evidence at a crime scene.
Describe the importance of scene documentation in successful case resolution.
Define priorities for collecting biological evidence.
Define situations that require control and reference samples to be collected.
Describe equipment used when collecting biological evidence.
Describe procedures used to collect, mark and package wet and dry biological evidence.
Describe the purpose and method used to establish and maintain the chain of custody for items of evidence collected at a crime scene.
Describe the methods used to preserve evidence.
List the elements included in a crime scene report.
Describe general requirements for an investigator when testifying in court.
Describe the purpose and use of DNA databases.
List the different types of DNA profiles in CODIS.
Describe the purpose of a "John Doe" DNA warrant.