Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Practice Exam

When sketching a crime scene, what should be marked at the top of the page?

1. Scale of the sketch

2. Court date

3. North orientation

4. Witness names

The correct answer is: North orientation

When sketching a crime scene, marking the north orientation at the top of the page is crucial for providing a clear reference point within the sketch. The orientation helps establish the position of the scene in relation to the surrounding area and allows anyone reviewing the sketch, such as investigators or jurors, to understand the layout and spatial relationships of the evidence. This directional marker is essential for accurate interpretation, especially when the sketch may be used in court or in reports. While other elements, such as a scale of the sketch, can also be important, they do not take precedence over the need for clear orientation. The inclusion of witness names or a court date may be relevant but does not pertain directly to the foundational aspects of the sketch itself. Thus, the correct focus is on establishing a clear point of orientation, ensuring that the sketch communicates the necessary spatial context effectively.