Deck 18: Death Investigation

Question 1

Evidence provides contextual value if it is recognized and interpreted correctly. If a deceased person has signs of Rigor Mortis it is an indication that:

A) Provides a predictable inference of time.
B) Provides an unpredictable circumstance.
C) Provides a spatial relationship to other items.
D) Provides a functional interpretation of the weapon used.

Answer 1

A

Question 2

The branch of medicine that applies the principles and knowledge of medical science to problems in the field of law (Medico-Legal Death) where the Medical Examiner will determine the Manner and Cause of death.

A) Forensic Anthropology
B) Forensic Pathology
C) Forensic Odontology
D) Forensic Entomology

Answer 2

B

Question 3

All of the following are considered Manner of Death determinations except for:

A) Homicide
B) Accidental
C) Blunt Force trauma
D) Natural

Answer 3

C

Question 4

Once the first phase of a death investigation has been completed, the coroner or medical examiner may be called. Investigators should not work to cultivate a good relationship with these offices because there is an adversarial relationship. Having an adversarial relationship is beneficial for checks and balances.

Question 5

You are investigating a scene of a violent death, but you cannot find the weapon used to cause the wounds to the victim. The absence of the weapon at the scene is an indicator that this case may be __________.

A) Murder/Homicide
B) Suicide
C) Natural death
D) Accidental death

Question 6

Which of the following individuals have extensive training in medicine and death investigation and respond to death scenes to assist the medical examiner in determining the cause and manner of death?

A) Forensic Examiners
B) Criminalist
C) Forensic Anthropologist
D) Medicolegal investigator

Question 7

The motivations for suicide can be deeply hidden and remain a mystery forever.

Question 8

In cases of violent death, why is it so important to determine the apparent cause of death as soon as possible?

A) To bring closure to the family
B) So that a search for the weapon, tool, or instrument can be conducted
C) So the prosecutor can provide a press statement
D) To clear the agency case

Question 9

This type of bloodstain is created when the victim expels blood through the mouth or nose:

A) Cast-off
B) Volume
C) Expirated
D) Swipe

Question 10

Which of the following pieces of equipment would help you to find the location of buried remains?

A) Alternate Light Source
B) Ground Penetrating Radar
C) Side Scan Sonar
D) Forensic Light Source

Question 11

The postmortem process of ______________ occurs 2-6 hours after death when the body muscles produce stiffening. It is most notable in the smaller muscles such as the jaw and fingers and is complete within 6 to 12 hours. It remains for 2 to 3 days and disappears gradually. This process can aid in determining the time-frame of death.

A) Livor mortis
B) Rigor mortis
C) Ante mortis
D) Post mortis

Question 12

Which of the following are usually the first insects to attack a dead body?

A) Flies
B) Maggots
C) Larvae
D) Beetles

Question 13

The appearance and characteristics of an entrance wound due to the distance of a gunshot can be useful in an investigation. In a ____________shot the entrance wound is often star shaped with flaps directed outward and there could be a muzzle imprint on the skin.

A) Contact
B) Distant
C) Mid-range
D) None of the above