1. Crime Scene Sketch: An Overview
A sketch is worth a1,000 words
Photo:

2. The Rough Sketch
The rough sketch is the first pencil drawn outline of a scene and the location of objects and evidence within this outline.
Sketch after photographs are taken and before anything is moved.

3. Sketching Materials
Paper, pencil, long steel measuring tape (longer the better), ruler or straightedge, clipboard, eraser, compass, protractor and thumbtacks.

4. Steps in Sketching the Crime Scene
Observe and Plan
Measure distances
Outline the area
Locate objects and evidence within the outline
Record details
Make notes
Identify the sketch with a legend and scale
Reassess the sketch

5. Steps in Sketching the Crime Scene
Observe and Plan
Decide where to start
Use fixed locations
Measure Distances
To Scale
Plot Objects and Evidence
Rectangular – Coordinate Method
Baseline Method
Triangulation Method
Compass-Point Method

6. Steps in Sketching the Crime Scene
Rectangular – Coordinate Method
Uses two adjacent walls as fixed points. Measures at right angles.
36' 11"
4' 2"

7. Steps in Sketching the Crime Scene
Baseline Method
Center baseline

8. Steps in Sketching the Crime Scene
Triangulation Method
Uses straight line measurements from two fixed objects to the evidence.

9. Steps in Sketching the Crime Scene
Cross Projection Method
Presents the walls and floor as they were one surface.

10. Compass Point Method
47dg
59 dg

11. File the Sketch
Place sketch in secure location.

12. The Finished Scale Drawing
The finished scale drawing is done in ink and on a good grade of paper.
You will not be drawing a sketch to scale at the crime scene.

13. Computer Assisted Drawing
Many companies have developed computer hardware to assist in drawing a crime scene.

14. Admissibility of Sketches and Drawings in Court
An admissible sketch is one drawn or personally witnessed by an investigator that accurately portrays the crime scene.

15. Where do I start?
Step 1: Draw a rough outline of the area- include windows (represented by the rectangles) and doors (represented by openings in the outline)

16. Step 2: Measure the room or space in which the crime occurred
Step 2: Measure the room or space in which the crime occurred. Label the dimensions on the sketch

17. Sketch in the furniture and location of evidence using basic shapes
Step 3
Sketch in the furniture and location of evidence using basic shapes

18. Step 4
Label each item in the diagram with a number or letter, then write the name in a key.

19. Step 5
Label the diagram with the date, time, location, and victim’s name (if known)
Note: An unknown victim is commonly given the name of John Doe or Jane Doe

20. Step 6: MEASURING FROM FIXED POINTS
Make two measurements from fixed (not moveable) points to each piece of evidence
These measurements are noted on a separate document, and not on actual sketch

24. FINAL SKETCH
A. There is never a second chance to sketch a scene, so all information must be noted before leaving B. The final sketch will be completed after leaving the crime scene. C. The final sketch will be drawn with a ruler to scale and may be done on graph paper.