American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) Practice Exam

Upon identifying a homicide victim through fingerprints, what is your first action?

1. Notify the media

2. Document the identification in the case file

3. Inform your supervisor

4. Notifying next of kin

The correct answer is: Document the identification in the case file

When a homicide victim is identified through fingerprints, the first action that should be taken is to document the identification in the case file. This documentation is crucial as it serves as a formal record of the identification process and the evidence gathered, which will be important for the investigation. The integrity and accuracy of the case file are essential for future legal proceedings and for maintaining a clear chain of custody. While notifying a supervisor, the media, or the next of kin are also important steps in the investigative process, they follow the immediate necessity of documenting the identification. By prioritizing the documentation, investigators ensure that all details are accurately captured and can be referenced later as the investigation unfolds. Accurate record-keeping is fundamental to maintaining the credibility of the investigation and provides a clear framework for any subsequent actions taken.