Question 1

When testifying as an expert you do not need to answer any question with a yes or no. You can explain your rationale.

Accepted Answer

When providing expert testimony, it is important to provide detailed explanations and opinions based on your expertise, rather than simply answering with a yes or no. This allows for a more thorough understanding of your reasoning and expertise in the subject matter.

Question 2

Once a digital file has been deleted there is no possible way to recover any of the information that was deleted.

Accepted Answer

It is possible to recover deleted digital files through various means such as data recovery software or services. However, it's not always guaranteed and depends on various factors like the time elapsed since the deletion, the overwrite of the file, and the type of storage device.

Question 3

When encountering a computer or any type of computer equipment or data devices (CD's, USB drives, portable hard drives, PDA's, memory cards, smart phones, etc.) at a crime scene, the most important thing to remember is to hurry and immediately unplug the device if it is on and transport to the computer crimes unit immediately.

Accepted Answer

The most important thing to remember is to not touch or manipulate the device in any way, and to contact a trained digital forensics expert who can properly handle and analyze the device without damaging or contaminating any potential evidence. Unplugging the device could also result in data loss or alteration.

Question 4

You arrive at the scene of a crime and are tasked with collecting computer and digital evidence. There are other police officers at the scene that are assigned to assist you. What is the most appropriate step to take next?

Accepted Answer

It is important to contact the computer crimes unit for directions as they are experts in handling digital evidence and can provide guidance on the proper procedures to follow. It is also important to clear the area of all personnel to avoid tampering with or damaging potential evidence.

Question 5

If you are properly trained in the collection computer and digital evidence and tasked with doing so at a crime scene, all of the following steps should be taken except for:

Accepted Answer

It is important to not turn on or review any content on the computer as it could alter or delete important evidence. The other options (A, B, and D) are all important steps in properly collecting computer and digital evidence.

Question 6

Video surveillance technology used for businesses and residences is a commonplace occurrence. When it is determined that there may be evidence recorded on the video recorder, what is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

The most appropriate action is to stop the recorder, note the details of the recording device, and collect the entire unit if it has a digital hard drive. This ensures that the potential evidence is correctly preserved and can be analyzed at a later time. It is important to make sure that the time on the recorder is accurate and to record the manufacturer, model, and recording settings to establish a clear chain of custody. If the device uses tapes, the tape can be collected. Option B is not appropriate as unplugging the device could cause data loss, and Option C may compromise the chain of custody. Option D is not recommended as it relies on the owner's ability to provide a copy of the recording at a later time.

Question 7

From a video analyst's perspective, the most common errors are as follows except for:

Accepted Answer

The other options all describe common errors that video analysts may encounter, but maintaining the original as evidence and storing it properly to prevent damage is not an error.

Question 8

A cell phone is collected at a crime scene and you are tasked with determining the workflow for the phone to obtain fingerprints, DNA, and to recover data from the device. Which is the most common sequence of events to maximize evidence recovery when all three are equally needed to advance the investigation?

Accepted Answer

Processing for fingerprints first minimizes the risk of smudging or destroying potential prints during other examination steps. Swabbing for DNA follows, as this process can also potentially interfere with fingerprint evidence. Downloading data is done last as it does not physically alter the evidence.

Question 9

An expert witness must be able to demonstrate all of the following to the court except for:

Accepted Answer

A Masters Degree in Forensic Science is not a requirement for an expert witness to demonstrate their qualifications in court. However, they must be able to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in their area of specialization, as well as their education, training, and continued involvement with professional organizations within that field.

Question 10

Unlike an expert witness that is allowed to provide conclusions based on specialized knowledge and training, a lay witness provides testimony that is more strictly based on:

Accepted Answer

Lay witnesses are typically individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the events surrounding a case and provide testimony based on their personal experience or knowledge. They are not expected to provide scientific or technical analysis, or personal opinions, but rather present factual observations. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice.

Question 11

It is not the responsibility of the forensic practitioner to testify as an expert in court, but to testify as a lay witness only.

Accepted Answer

It is the responsibility of the forensic practitioner to testify as an expert in court when their specialized knowledge can assist the court in understanding the evidence or resolving a factual issue. As an expert witness, they may provide opinions or interpretations based on their scientific or technical expertise, and they may also be subject to cross-examination by opposing counsel.

Question 12

It is the responsibility of the Crime Scene Investigator to testify as an expert in court and prove to the jury that the suspect is guilty.

Accepted Answer

It is not the responsibility of the Crime Scene Investigator to prove the suspect is guilty. Their responsibility is to collect and analyze evidence, and provide accurate and unbiased information to assist the court in making a decision. It is up to the prosecutor to prove guilt, and the defense to try to refute it. The CSI's testimony is just one piece of evidence presented in court.

Question 13

You are called upon to testify as an expert witness in court. The morning of your court date you are choosing what to wear for your appearance in court. Which of the following is the best choice of clothing?

Accepted Answer

It is important to dress in a professional and business-like manner when testifying in court as an expert witness. This demonstrates respect for the court and the legal process, and helps to establish credibility as a knowledgeable and trustworthy witness. Avoid wearing clothing that is too casual or distracting, including items with logos or writing, bright colors, or excessive jewelry. Opting for professional/business attire such as a suit and tie, blouse and skirt, or dress slacks and a blazer is the best choice for an expert witness in court.

Question 14

The specialized topic knowledge and experience of the expert witness must be ___________ that of the jury.

Accepted Answer

The specialized knowledge and experience of an expert witness must be greater than that of the jury. Expert witnesses are called upon to provide technical or specialized knowledge that the jury may not possess, and as such must have a higher level of understanding and expertise in the subject matter being discussed.

Question 15

When testifying as an expert in court the Crime Scene Investigator is obligated to __________.

Accepted Answer

As an expert witness, the CSI's obligation is to advocate for the truth based on their professional knowledge and experience. It is not their role to prove guilt or affirm the defense's theory. They are also not limited to answering only yes or no questions, but are expected to provide detailed explanations and opinions based on their expertise.

Question 16

Much like photography, the admissibility of sketches and diagrams in a court of law depends upon establishing its authenticity and that the sketch is a true and accurate representation of the original scene.

Accepted Answer

This statement is true. The admissibility of sketches and diagrams in a court of law depends upon establishing its authenticity and accuracy.

Quiz 20: Report Writing, Testimony and the Future