CaseGuard Resources

January 04, 2016 | 5 minutes read

How to collect physical evidence in inclement weather

We do not get to pick our crime scenes. Instead, our crime scenes select us through random chance and whatever crazy schedule we might be working. Crime Scene Investigators must play with the hand we were dealt with by the suspect(s) and random chance. Crime scenes are presented to us in the extreme cold, extreme […]

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December 21, 2015 | 4 minutes read

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Video Redaction

Unforeseen challenges arise as law enforcement agencies collect more video evidence. From cruiser camera video to body camera and surveillance videos.

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December 14, 2015 | 2 minutes read

Meet CaseGuard team at CAPE 2016, Santa Barbara

Meet CaseGuard team at the California Association for Property and Evidence 2016 conference in Santa Barbara March 14 to March 16.

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December 07, 2015 | 4 minutes read

Evidence room physical security

Evidence rooms are often located out of the way, like in basements or off-site. While this can be fine, it’s crucial to ensure the facility truly protects the evidence. A recent burglary in Vermont highlights that police facilities don’t guarantee security. Security measures include thorough background checks for staff, controlled key and fob access, secure building materials, and strict visitor policies. Implementing multi-layered door security and comprehensive inventory checks during personnel changes are vital. Security cameras and alarm systems can enhance protection, and effective evidence management software is essential. Every evidence room requires tailored security strategies to guard against theft.

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November 23, 2015 | 3 minutes read

The Age of Digital Evidence

Law enforcement must be flexible and open to change so they take advantage of new technologies in the digital evidence realm to remain one step ahead.

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November 09, 2015 | 6 minutes read

Firearms in the evidence room

Firearms are challenging for evidence technicians due to safety and disposal issues. Each state and agency has unique laws and procedures, so we’ll cover some key highlights.

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October 26, 2015 | 4 minutes read

Managing evidence at suspicious death scenes

A death investigation requires careful attention to detail. Investigators must methodically gather evidence and document findings to determine the cause of death and seek justice, using tools like evidence management software for accuracy.

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October 19, 2015 | 5 minutes read

How to collect digital evidence in inclement weather?

Inclement weather complicates crime scene photography. Use off-camera flash or none, rely on tripods, and use aperture priority. Modern cameras record settings in metadata for court. Practice techniques in mock scenarios for best results.

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October 12, 2015 | 5 minutes read

Successful search warrants

Executing search warrants requires strict adherence to the Fourth Amendment. Proper evidence management, documentation, and best practices ensure cases withstand scrutiny, protecting both citizens’ rights and integrity of law enforcement agencies.

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September 28, 2015 | 3 minutes read

Evidence and the human element!

Despite advances in technology, evidence management still faces human challenges. Errors in collection, packaging, and judgment persist, highlighting the need for both reliable software and vigilant personnel.

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September 21, 2015 | 4 minutes read

Should police officers use evidence management software?

As we talk with prospective clients, we sometimes encounter resistance from evidence room personnel regarding police officers doing the initial data entry portion of evidence management. This resistance is to be expected, I suppose, from anyone accustomed to taking handwritten information and transferring it to whatever database or spreadsheet might be in use. It’s just […]

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September 14, 2015 | 4 minutes read

10 Things to look for in digital evidence management systems

When choosing a digital evidence management system, look for ease of use, versatile file acceptance, authentication, a full chain of custody, digital sharing, customizable user permissions, enhancement tools, support for various video formats etc.

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