Forensic Vocabulary#1
An area where additional evidence related to a crime may be found but where the crime did not actually occur.
Secondary crime scene
Secret cooperation between individuals, often to give false or misleading information.
Collusion
Photos were taken of individual pieces of evidence to capture details.
Close-up photos
A drawing that uses a consistent ratio to represent the actual dimensions of the scene.
Scale drawing
A mental state in which someone believes false things with strong conviction, despite evidence to the contrary.
Delusional
The person who arrives first at the scene of a crime is typically law enforcement or emergency personnel.
First Responder
The location where the actual crime took place.
Primary crime scene
Guidelines for properly storing and labeling evidence to avoid contamination.
Packaging protocols
A guide is included with a sketch that explains symbols and labels.
Legend/key
The conscious decision to engage in behavior that breaks the law.
Criminal Intent
A boundary around the crime scene that helps keep unauthorized people out and protects evidence.
Perimeter
The place where a suspect or perpetrator entered or left the scene.
Point of Entry or exit
A hand-drawn representation of the crime scene that includes the location of evidence.
Sketch
A known, immovable reference point used to help measure and map evidence.
Fixed point
A condition where a person feels a strong, often irresistible urge to perform certain actions repeatedly.
Compulsiveness
The proper procedures are followed to ensure safety and prevent harm at a crime scene.
Safety Protocol
Photos that show the general layout of the crime scene and surroundings.
Overview photos
The documented process of who handled the evidence from collection to court.
Chain of custody
A methodical approach is used to ensure all areas of a crime scene are examined.
Systematic search
Evidence such as hair, blood, or bodily fluids that come from a living source.
Biological evidence
The introduction of outside elements that could compromise or alter crime scene evidence.
Contamination
A written record of all evidence collected at the scene, including descriptions and where it was found.
Evidence log
Small materials such as hairs, fibers, or glass that can transfer from one person or object to another.
Small materials such as hairs, fibers, or glass that can transfer from one person or object to another.
Patterns of actions or conduct that violate legal or moral standards
Criminal Behavior
The process of analyzing crime scene details to infer traits and habits of a suspect.
Offender Profiling