Processing the Crime Scene Just as cars run on gas, crime labs “run” on physical evidence

Securing and Isolating the Scene First priority is medical assistance As others arrive, boundaries must be set Once scene is secure, lead investigator can begin to evaluate Determine likely paths of entry/exit Perform “Walk-through”

During The Walk-Through Take mental notes Take detailed written notes – don’t wait – write it down – you’ll forget! Don’t touch anything! Think about who may need to be called for help with processing this scene

Recording the Crime Scene Time Counts! 3 methods for recording: 1. notes 2. photographs 3. sketches

Notes Prior to arrival Begins with contact information, time and information disclosed Upon arrival: note time, identify people present Record tasks assigned to team members Notes should be written in ink Can be recorded-must be transcribed later

Photographs Photograph an unaltered scene Photograph important evidence two or more times from different angles\ Take pictures of the entry and exit ways

Photographs Close ups of the body showing injuries Use a scale Take pictures of all items of evidence Film or digital? Strict handling guidelines

Value of Photographs Show scene lay out Positions Relationships Photos from multiple angles can illustrate lines of sight Complementary to notes and sketches

Crime Scene Sketches Start with rough sketch Accurately depict dimensions of scene Show important items of evidence Measurements are from fixed points See text p. 35

Crime Scene Sketches Finished sketch is made from rough sketch Can be made using computer program

Systematic Search Patterns Strip or line search Two or more investigators start at the boundary of the scene, walk straight across. Move a little farther along border, turn around and walk back

Grid Search Pattern Very thorough, but must have well established boundaries Two people originate from adjacent corners and perform perpendicular search

Spiral or Wheel Search Usually one person Move in spiral motion to either center or outer perimeter Difficult to walk a perfect spiral

Wheel or Ray Search Pattern Employs several people Investigators move from inside to out OR from outside to inside Can easily miss evidence

Quadrant or Zone Search Best for scenes that cover a large area Divides scene into zones Each zone can be searched by a team

You Are Called to the Scene What do you do?