Caught in the Act
Who was the notorious bank robber known as the "Gentleman Bandit"?
John Dillinger
What is the legal term for a written accusation issued by a grand jury?
Indictment
On TV, fingerprints are matched instantly. In real life, how long can it actually take?
Several hours to weeks.
What is the term for early release from prison under specific conditions?
Parole
You arrive at a burglary scene where the glass is shattered from the inside. Was it likely a break-in?
No, it’s more consistent with a staged scene.
This infamous serial killer left "Zodiac" symbols in his letters to the press.
The Zodiac Killer.
What is the highest court in the United States?
The Supreme Court.
Crime shows often show interrogations lasting hours. In reality, what’s the legal limit?
There is no strict time limit, but the suspect's rights must not be violated.
What is the name of the island prison that once housed Alcatraz?
Alcatraz Island.
A suspect claims they were at the movies during a crime. What evidence would confirm their alibi?
Ticket stubs, surveillance footage, or witnesses.
What 1920s gang leader was known for orchestrating the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre?
Al Capone.
What term refers to the intent to commit a crime?
Mens rea.
In crime dramas, DNA results are instant. How long can it take in real life?
Weeks to months.
What is the term for the system of trading goods and services in prison?
The prison economy.
A body is found with no visible wounds, but nearby is an empty bottle labeled poison. What should be done first?
Test for toxic substances in the body.
Who was the con artist behind the largest Ponzi scheme in history?
Bernie Madoff
What’s the legal term for evidence obtained illegally and thus inadmissible in court?
The exclusionary rule.
On TV, detectives solve cases alone. What is the reality of solving a case?
It often involves a team of specialists and takes months or years.
What was the name of the prison in the infamous 1971 uprising?
Attica Correctional Facility.
A suspect has muddy shoes, but it hasn’t rained in weeks. What should you investigate?
Recently watered areas or proximity to bodies of water.
Which hacker group famously targeted Sony in 2014 over the release of The Interview?
The Guardians of Peace.
What is the term for a defendant representing themselves in court?
Pro se representation.
Crime shows depict glamorous, high-tech labs. What’s the reality of most forensic labs?
They are often underfunded and overwhelmed with backlog.
What is solitary confinement commonly referred to by inmates?
The hole.
A victim’s watch is stopped at 10:15 PM. What might this indicate?
The time of the incident or damage during the attack.