200-word response 1 reference Due 1/6/2024

Vassel

1. During a murder investigation, multiple parties will be involved, each with their own roles and responsibilities. The command structure and authority can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the case. However, the hierarchy of authority typically follows a logical sequence which goes in order. “The actions taken by the initial responding officer will greatly affect the success or failure of the homicide investigation” (Howell, 1999). The first responding officers and medical personnel has an essential role in securing the crime scene and providing immediate medical assistance to any injured individuals. They are responsible for preserving any evidence and ensuring the safety of everyone present. Once the initial scene has been secured, the command typically shifts to the crime scene investigators and homicide detectives. They are trained to gather and study the evidence, interview witnesses, and piece together the events leading up to the crime. They are responsible for organizing the investigation and making decisions based on the available evidence. As the investigation progresses, the involvement of the medical examiner becomes crucial. The medical examiner is responsible for determining the cause and manner of death by completing a thorough examination of the victim’s body. Their findings can provide vital information that helps the investigation. The command structure can evolve throughout the investigation based on the specific needs and developments of the case. For instance, if new evidence or leads emerge, the hierarchy of decision-making may shift to prioritize those aspects.

2. DNA evidence was first used with the “Frye Standard” (Bell, 2019). Impression evidence, such as fingerprints, footprints, tire tracks, and tool marks, are very important in criminal investigations, even with the availability of DNA evidence. While DNA evidence can provide valuable information about a suspect’s identity, impression evidence can provide critical details about the crime scene, the actions of the perpetrator, and the connection between different pieces of evidence. It can help establish the presence of a suspect at the scene, link multiple crime scenes, and provide insights into the methods used. Additionally, impression evidence is often more readily available and can be collected from various surfaces, making it an important tool in solving crimes where DNA evidence may not be present or viable. I personally believe that impression evidence is now very important.