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investigation, can be used. The JAGMAN investigation
should not interfere with the completion of the NCIS
investigation; therefore, it is advisable that the IO wait
until NCIS completes its investigation before obtaining
a copy for use of the statements gathered by NCIS.
Aircraft mishap investigative report. Aircraft
accidents are investigated by one or more investigative
bodies under existing instructions and legal
requirements.
For the sole purpose of safety and
accident prevention, the Chief of Naval Operations
(CNO) issues special instructions for the conduct,
analysis, and review of investigations of aircraft
mishaps, These investigations are known as Aircraft
Mishap Investigation Reports (AMIRs). Because these
investigations are directed toward safety problems,
confidentiality is essential in order to allow personnel to
be honest when giving statements. Therefore, a
statement obtained in an AMIR is not available to the IO
from any official source. IOs from both the aircraft
safety investigation and the JAGMAN investigation,
however, should have equal access to all real evidence
and have separate opportunities to question and obtain
statements from all witnesses.
Other mishap investigation reports. For the reasons
specified previously, these mishap investigation reports
cannot be included in JAGMAN investigations.
Inspector General reports. These reports cannot be
included in JAGMAN investigations.
Polygraph examinations. Neither polygraph
reports nor their results should be included in the
JAGMAN investigative report; however, if essential for
a complete understanding of the incident, the location
of the polygraph report should be cross-referenced in the
report.
Medical quality assurance investigations. A naval
hospital will conduct its own investigation (much the
same as the AMIR). Confidentiality is essential here
also. Therefore, statements obtained in a medical
quality assurance investigation cannot be used in a
JAGMAN investigation.
Photographs, records, operating logs, pertinent
directives, watchlists, and pieces of damaged equipment
are examples of evidence that the 10 may have to
identify, accumulate, and evaluate. To the extent
consistent with mission requirements, the CA will make
sure all evidence is properly preserved and safeguarded
until the investigation is complete and all relevant
actions have been taken.
Photographs and videotapes that have sufficient
clarity to depict actual conditions are invaluable as
evidence. Although, in some instances, color photos
present the best pictorial description, they are more
difficult to reproduce and normally require more time to
develop; therefore, it maybe more prudent to use black
and white film. Polaroid prints offer instant review to
make sure the desired picture is obtained, but are
somewhat difficult to reproduce or enlarge.
Photographs and videos should be taken from two or
more angles, using a scale or ruler to show dimensions.
The investigative report should include the negative plus
complete technical details relating to the camera used.
In cases of personal injury or death, photographs and
videos that portray the results of bodily injury should be
included only if they contribute to the usefulness of the
investigation. Lurid or morbid photographs and videos
that serve no useful purpose should not be taken.
Sketches instead of or in conjunction with
photographs or videos provide valuable additional
information.
Insignificant items can be omitted in
sketching, providing a more uncluttered view of the
scene.
Where dimensions are critical but may be
distorted by camera perspective, accurate sketches can
be more valuable. Sketches should be drawn to scale,
preferably on graph paper. They can also be used as a
layout to orient numerous photos and measurements.
Carefully handle pieces or parts of equipment and
material to make sure this physical evidence is not
destroyed. If attaching real evidence to the report is
inappropriate, preserve it in a safe place under proper
chain of custody-reflecting its location in the report of
investigation. Tag each item with a full description of
its relationship to the accident. If it is to be sent to a
laboratory for analysis, package it with care.
Accompany the item(s) with a photo or sketch showing
the as found location and condition.
Make verbatim copies of relevant operating logs,
records, directives, memos, medical reports, police or
shore patrol reports, motor vehicle accident reports, and
other similar documents.
To assure exactness,
reproduce by mechanical or photographic means if at all
possible. Check copies for clarity and legibility and
examine closely for obvious erasures and markovers
that might not show up when reproduced.
If the IO observes an item and gains relevant sense
impressions (noise, texture, smells, or any other
impression not adequately portrayed by photograph,
sketch, or map), those impressions should be recorded
and included as an enclosure to the report.
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