crime scene evidence technician Interview Questions and Answers

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100 Interview Questions and Answers for Crime Scene Evidence Technician

  1. What are your primary responsibilities as a crime scene evidence technician?

    • Answer: My primary responsibilities include securing the crime scene, documenting the scene through photography, videography, and sketching, carefully collecting and preserving evidence, maintaining a chain of custody, and packaging and transporting evidence to the laboratory for analysis. I also ensure adherence to all legal and procedural requirements.

  2. Describe your experience with different types of evidence collection.

    • Answer: I have experience collecting various types of evidence, including biological samples (blood, saliva, hair, etc.) using appropriate techniques to avoid contamination, trace evidence (fibers, hairs, glass, paint chips) using specialized tools like forceps and tape lifts, firearms and ammunition following safety protocols, digital evidence (computers, phones) using forensic imaging software, and latent fingerprints using powders and chemical developers.

  3. How do you maintain the chain of custody for evidence?

    • Answer: Maintaining chain of custody is crucial. I meticulously document every person who handles the evidence, the date and time of each transfer, and the reason for the transfer. This documentation is usually on a chain of custody form, which accompanies the evidence throughout the entire process, ensuring its integrity and admissibility in court.

  4. Explain the importance of proper scene security.

    • Answer: Proper scene security is paramount to prevent contamination or tampering with evidence. This involves establishing a perimeter, controlling access to the scene, preventing unauthorized entry, and documenting everyone who enters and exits. This ensures the integrity of the investigation and the admissibility of evidence in court.

  5. How do you photograph a crime scene?

    • Answer: Crime scene photography requires a systematic approach. I start with establishing shots showing the overall scene, then move to mid-range shots showing the relationship between evidence items, and finally close-up shots of individual pieces of evidence, including scale markers for accurate representation. I maintain detailed photo logs, noting the date, time, location, and description of each photograph.

  6. How do you create a crime scene sketch?

    • Answer: I create accurate and detailed sketches using proper techniques. This involves measuring distances between key objects and the walls, noting the location of evidence, and including relevant details such as doors, windows, and furniture. I use appropriate symbols to represent different types of evidence. The sketch helps visualize the scene and its layout.

  7. What are some common mistakes to avoid when collecting evidence?

    • Answer: Common mistakes include failing to properly document the chain of custody, contaminating the evidence, failing to collect all relevant evidence, improper packaging of evidence leading to degradation, and not using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

  8. Describe your experience with different types of packaging for evidence.

    • Answer: I am experienced in using various packaging materials depending on the type of evidence. For example, biological evidence is usually packaged in paper bags to allow for air circulation, preventing mold growth. Trace evidence is packaged in sealed containers or envelopes to prevent loss. Firearms are packaged in secure cases to prevent accidental discharge.

  9. How do you handle evidence that is potentially contaminated?

    • Answer: I handle potentially contaminated evidence with extreme caution, wearing appropriate PPE such as gloves, masks, and eye protection. I take steps to minimize cross-contamination by using separate tools and avoiding touching the evidence with bare hands. I follow established protocols for handling biohazards, including proper decontamination procedures.

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