Crime Scene Processing PPE
Law enforcement officers and crime scene technicians must use caution and protect themselves at all times from contracting AIDS or hepatitis. Bodily fluids must always be treated as though they were infectious. Crime scene technicians most often use dust particle masks or N-95 masks at routine crime scenes. They are considered the most common type of respiratory protection. These masks are considered to be disposable and should be discarded after one use.
It is imperative that all personnel involved in entering and processing the crime scene wear personal protective equipment (PPE). This consists of items of clothing that are non-porous, such as crime scene suits, nitrile gloves (double gloving recommended), face masks, and eye protection. These items will protect the CSI from exposure to blood-borne pathogens, most chemical and drug residues, and other contaminants that are health hazards. In addition, hair nets and booties over the shoes will help avoid contamination of the crime scene.Research the following points, and write a 5–7-page paper fully explaining each point:
1. Identify and explain 4 exceptions to the exclusionary rule established by the U.S. Supreme Court that allow for the search and/or seizure of evidence without a warrant.
The exclusionary rule is a legal principle in the United States that prohibits the use of illegally obtained evidence in a criminal trial. However, there are some exceptions to this rule that allow for the search and seizure of evidence without a warrant. However, the burden is on the prosecution to demonstrate that the search or seizure falls under one of these exceptions and is therefore legal.
Search incident to lawful arrest: Under this exception, police officers may conduct a warrantless search of a person who has been lawfully arrested, as well as the area within the person’s immediate control, to ensure officer safety and prevent the destruction of evidence. The rationale behind this exception is that it is reasonable to believe that a person who has just been arrested may have weapons or evidence on them.
Plain view doctrine: This exception allows officers to seize evidence that is in plain view during a lawful search or observation. For example, if an officer is lawfully in a person’s home and sees drugs on a table, the officer may seize the drugs without a warrant. The rationale behind this exception is that if the evidence is in plain view, there is no expectation of privacy and no need for a warrant.
Consent: If a person voluntarily consents to a search, then the search is legal and any evidence obtained may be used in court. The rationale behind this exception is that if a person gives consent, they have waived their Fourth Amendment rights and allowed the search to take place.
Exigent circumstances: If there is an emergency situation that requires immediate action, such as a threat to public safety or the imminent destruction of evidence, police may conduct a warrantless search. The rationale behind this exception is that in emergency situations, there may not be time to obtain a warrant, and public safety or the preservation of evidence may be at risk.2. Patent medicines used to be dispensed by pharmacists in powder form using a pharmacist’s or druggist’s fold. Explain this method of packaging and why it has been adopted by Crime Scene Investigators for packaging trace evidence.
3. How should investigators handle trace evidence that is stuck on an object found at the crime scene? Explain the exception to this procedure.
4. When a motor vehicle, boat, or aircraft is present, what special considerations should the Crime Scene Investigator take?