Assignment:
You are the new crime scene investigator. You have come into a crime scene in which the victim appears to be shot. The projectile went through the victim and lodged in an oak tree 5 foot above the ground. You need this projectile for evaluation. There is also a 9-mm pistol at the scene, and you must collect it for evidence.
There are several ways to collect this evidence.
Write 400 to 600 words that respond to the following questions with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas:
- What are two techniques that can be used to collect the bullet? Explain the techniques.
- In your own words, explain how you would collect and preserve both the bullet and the gun.
- What challenges can you see with regard to collecting projectile evidence? Explain.
- Can you think of any circumstance in which a lodged projectile cannot be retrieved? Why or why not?
- How should the firearm found on the scene of the crime be handled by the investigator? Explain.
- What dangers do you think exist with regard to evidence contamination? Explain.