Crime Scene Investigation

Basic Premise The actions taken at the onset of an investigation are vitally important to the successful resolution of the case. Proper and complete investigation will insure evidence is not lost or destroyed.

Basic Premise It takes time to properly conduct a through investigation, don’t rush take the time to do it right. You usually only get one chance at doing a proper job. Once the scene is released any evidence overlooked is lost.

Basic Premise There is an old saying that you can never step into the same river twice, the same goes for a crime scene. As soon as you enter the scene you change and contaminate it.

Safety “The Safety and well being of officers and other individuals, in and around the crime scene are the initial responding officers first priority” U.S. Department of Justice, A Guide for Law Enforcement

Safety It is the responsibility of the initial responding officer to ensure the scene is safe for other personnel. Safety of yourself and the people working with you should be your number one concern.

Safety When approaching the scene assure that any risk to officers is reduced. If you are investigating an explosion or terrorist act beware of the secondary devise or trap.

Safety Preserving life takes precedent over preserving evidence. Whenever possible try to do both.

Preparation Obtain a search warrant if necessary. When in doubt, get the warrant, if time permits. Determine if the “emergency aid exception” to a warrant applies as per Mincey v. Arizona.

Preparation Discuss the search with involved personnel before arrival at the scene if possible. Establish a command headquarters for communication and decision making in major or complicated crime scenes

Preparation Establish communications between medial examiners, laboratory personnel, and prosecuting attorneys so that questions during the crime scene search can be resolved Coordinate agreements with all agencies in multi-jurisdictional crime scene searches

Preparation Accumulate evidence collection and packaging materials and equipment Prepare the paperwork to document the search Provide protective clothing, communication, lighting, shelter, transportation, equipment, food, water, medical assistance, and security for personnel.

Preparation In prolonged searches, use shifts of two or more teams. Transfer paperwork and responsibility in a preplanned manner from one team to the next. Ensure that assignments are in keeping with the attitude, aptitude, training, and experience of personnel. Personnel may be assigned two or more responsibilities

Preparation Ensure that personnel are aware of the types of evidence usually encountered and the proper handling of that evidence.

Assignments Make preliminary personnel assignments before arrival at the scene, whenever possible. Consider strengths and weaknesses of personnel and assign tasks accordingly.

Assignments First Officer on Scene –Provide immediate care to those in need –Secures the scene –Protects evidence –Identify possible witnesses and suspects –Note any vehicles in the area –Set up a perimeter –On approach note the weather conditions and any odors present –Maintain entrance log, who entered and when

Assignments Person in Charge –Assures all other assignments are carried out correctly –Responsible for scene security –Maintains an administrative log –Conducts the preliminary survey –Does a narrative description for team members –Problem resolution –Final decision making

Assignments Photographer –Photograph the scene and surrounding area –Maintain a photo log. –Assist others whenever needed.

Assignments Sketch Preparer –Sketch the crime scene and maintain a log. –Identify evidence –Assist in taking measurements.

Assignments Evidence Recorder –Collect Evidence from the scene. –Maintain custody of the evidence. –Maintain the evidence log and assure chain of custody of the evidence.