CHAPTER VII PRINCIPLES OF CRIME

SCENE INVESTIGATION
 Principles of crime scene investigation
The key principle underlying crime scene investigation
is a concept that has become known Locard’s exchange
principle. It states that whenever someone enters or
exits an environment, something physical is added to
and remove from the scene.
The logic behind this principle allows investigators to link suspects to
victims, to physical objects and to scenes. Any evidence that can link a
person to the scene is referred to as associative evidence.

While associative evidence links people to the place of the crime,

reconstructive evidence allows investigators to gain an understanding of
the actions that took place at the scene.
To establish the linkage of people and things to a scene, the investigator
may also collect known substances, called control samples. These can be
items such as fibers from carpeting at the scene, soil, vegetation and
other trace evidence. If these are found on the suspects clothing, or in
their residence, it could provide circumstantial evidence linking the
person to the scene

Eliminating people who could not be the perpetrator is also important,

control samples of fingerprints and DNA are often collected from any
person who have access to the scene who are not considered suspects.
 Gauging the Value of evidence
It is unique- If an item is found that helps narrow the possibilities of who
might be considered a suspect or the manner in which a crime was
committed, this evidence would be of use.

It has a low probability of occurring by chance- considering the

mathematical probabilities will help to determine the odds that a piece of
physical evidence found at the scene could appear merely by coincidence. If
evidence DNA evidence found at the scene matches a suspect, the chances
are low that another person could have left this sample.
 But even evidence that has a much higher probability for instance, a common
type of shoeprint that is left in the soil is still available. When combined with
high probability evidence, these can help narrow the list of possible parties and
build a compelling case.

It is consistent- if an item is found that is out of place or inconsistent with the

setting, or is out of character for the victim.

It is a physical match- if trace evidence is found on the suspect or in his

possession that matches something at the scene, this makes the item valuable as
evidence. For instance, broken plastic parts or broken fingernail that can be
matched by fracture marks can be demonstrate that two pieces were once a part
of the same item.
 Why and when is a crime scene
investigation conducted?
Collecting physical evidence from a scene can help the investigator recreate the
crime scene establish the sequence of events, physical evidence can also
corroborate statements made by the victim, suspects and witnesses.
In practive, a wide range of scenes are secured, documented and
investigated including the scenes of:
1. Violent crimes
2. Suicides
3. Fires
4. Auto thefts
5. Auto accidents
The type of case being investigated, dictates on the type of evidence that
an investigator will attempt to locate and collect. However, as the facts of
the case slowly get pieced together, this may change the theory of what
occured, investigators may discover that several crimes have been
committed instead of just one.

In some cases, an investigator may not be able to examine the primary

crime scene because it is unkown, for instance, if a body is found buried in
a field far away from where the death actually took place, the area where
the body is discovered is reffered to as secondary crime scene.
Samples that may be Collected at a Crime Scene

A wide variety of physical evidence can be collected at a scene

that is deemed valuable ("probative") for collection and
investigation:

1. Biological Evidence (e.g., blood, body fluids, hair and other

tissues)
2. Latent Print Evidence (e.g., fingerprints, palm prints, foot prints)
3. Footwear and Tire Track Evidence
4. Trace Evidence (e.g., fibers, soil, vegetation, glass fragments)
5. Digital Evidence (e.g., cell phone records, Internet logs, email
messages)
6. Tool and Tool Mark Evidence
7. Drug Evidence
8. Firearms Evidence
The type of evidence collected will vary with the type of crime. In
the case of a burglary, for example, it would be common to perform
tasks in the order listed below. This will help ensure that evidence
isn't inadvertently damaged or destroyed:

1. Photograph and document the scene

2. Collect trace materials (especially from probable points of entry)
3. Collect low-level DNA evidence by swabbing areas of likely
contact
4. Collect other items that may contain biological
evidence
5. Locate and collect latent fingerprint
 Who Examines Crime Scenes

The number and type of professional(s) responsible

for investigating a scene and collecting evidence
largely depends on the type of crime and the
resources of the law enforcement agency. Larger
agencies often have dedicated, highly trained crime
scene specialists, while smaller agencies may require
that first responders or detectives process the scene
in addition to their other duties.
 In many instances, a case will be investigated by a
detective who is responsible for interviewing persons
of interest and victims, pursuing leads and piecing
together the information that is developed from the
materials collected at the scene. The detective works
in tandem with a team of crime scene personnel who
search the scene and collect the evidence. The crime
scene investigation team may consist of crime scene
photographers and evidence collection personnel
specializing in gathering specific evidence such as
latent prints, DNA, trace evidence and the like.
 The Conceptual Approach in Crime Scene Investigation

The circumstances that investigators encounter at the scene

will largely dictate the approach used to process the scene. A
Homicide will likely require different treatment and
processing than a Robbery. However, to ensure a thorough
process, the seven steps outlined below are often followed.
These steps can be conducted in a different order, combined
or even skipped altogether to meet the needs of the
situation.
 1. Establish the Scene Dimensions and Identify Potential Safety and Health
Hazards Investigators

initially locate the "focal point" of the scene, the main area of disturbance. This
could be a ransacked bedroom, the area where an attack occurred, or the room
in which a victim was found. Radiating out from that point, investigators
establish an area that is sizeable enough to likely contain all relevant physical
evidence that may be the size of a scene at a later point than to discover
present. It is easier for investigators to condense that sensitive evidence outside
the scene has been damaged or destroyed by other responders, media or
onlookers. In addition, potential paths of perpetrator entry/exit are identified.
Safety is of paramount importance during the initial approach to the scene.
Weapons, biohazards, chemical hazards and even intentional traps could be
waiting for responders. If medical, fire or coroners will be on scene, they will
need to be advised regarding evidentiary issues as well.
 2. Establish Security - According to Locard's Exchange
Principle, every person who enters or exits the scene will add
or subtract material from the crime scene, so it's crucial to
quickly secure the area. To control access, the scene may be
cordoned off with yellow crime scene tape, cones or by other
means. In addition, a common. entryway is often established
that all crime scene personnel will use to enter and exit the
scene and all people entering or leaving the scene are
documented once the boundaries have been established.
Additional areas for consultation and evidence storage may
also be established if necessary.
 3. Plan, Communicate and Coordinate - Before collecting
evidence, investigators must first develop a theory regarding
the type of offense that occurred. Knowing the type of crime
will help investigators anticipate the evidence that could be
present. This may require gathering information from
witnesses or persons of interest. Based on this information,
the crime scene team will develop an evidence-collection
strategy taking into consideration weather conditions, time
of day
4. Conduct a Primary Survey/Walkthrough
An initial survey of the scene is then conducted to prioritize evidence
collection. During this walkthrough, the lead investigator will identify
potentially valuable evidence, take notes and Capture initial photographs of
the scene and the evidence. The crime scene is documented to record
conditions such as whether lights were on or off, the position of shades and
doors, position of movable furniture, any smells present, the temperature of
the scene, etc. To facilitate this process, crime scene specialists may create
an evidence-free pathway leading to the primary area of interest by
conducting a thorough sweep for evidence in that area.
 5. Document and Process the Scene
With a plan in place, the crime scene team conducts a thorough,
coordinated investigation of the scene, collecting all probative evidence.
This entails detailed documentation with digital and video cameras or, if
available, a 3-D scanner. For some situations, sketches and diagrams are
also created. During the evidence-collection process, it is crucial that the
crime scene investigator follow proper procedures for collecting,
packaging and preserving the evidence, especially if it is of a biological
nature. Biological evidence can be destroyed or damaged by weather
conditions, individuals can inadvertently contaminate it, or it can be
overlooked entirely if alternate light sources are not used to inspect the
scene.
 6. Conduct a Secondary Survey/Review
To ensure that the scene has been thoroughly searched, a second
survey of the area is conducted as a quality control step.

7. Record and Preserve Evidence

To ensure that the scene has been thoroughly searched, a second survey
of the area is conducted as a quality control step. must match the photo
of the evidence taken at the scene and the description included in ten at
the scene report. For instance, if a gun is collected, the serial number of
the firearm in the evidence log must match the serial number shown in
the photo that was taken at the scene. This paper trail establishes the
chain of custody that will follow the evidence throughout the lifecycle of
the case.
 How and Where Tests on the Evidence are
Conducted
The most probative evidence is sent to a forensic laboratory or an outside
analyst for examination. Crime scene personnel may conduct presumptive
tests at the scene to identify valuable evidence. These tests help
determine the type of substance present, such as toxin or drug, body fluid
stain, or blood or ketchup. They narrow the field of possibilities to a
specific class of substance but are not specific enough to confirm the
presence of specific compounds. Presumptive tests provide clues about
the crime and potential involvement, and reduce the amount of evidence
submitted to the lab to include only the most important items, expediting
processing. As technology advances, more testing of evidence will likely be
conducted at the scene.
 The crime scene investigation as a
process
A crime scene investigation involves detailed documentation of the
scene's condition and collection of evidence, including evidence such as
DNA. As forensic technologies and laboratory techniques improve, the
value of trace and biological evidence has increased, particularly in the use
of DNA profiling. This allows even the smallest amounts of biological
evidence to link an individual to a crime scene. However, unlike TV shows,
the criminal investigation process takes time and involves multiple types
of evidence, including eyewitness testimony, to provide a comprehensive
picture of the crime. The initial crime scene investigation is just the
beginning of a lengthy process.
 Limitations of the Crime Scene
Investigation Process
Crime scenes in popular media often seem orderly and secure, but they
can be emotionally charged or chaotic, and inclement weather conditions
can damage evidence. A thorough examination of the scene can reveal
much about the event, but it must be analyzed by a forensic scientist in a
laboratory before conclusive facts can be determined. DNA or fingerprints
collected at the scene may not be able to identify the perpetrator if there
are no suspects or the information doesn't match existing law enforcement
databases. Additionally, investigators' ability to collect certain evidence
may be limited if they must compromise another, such as swabbing a knife
near the victim for blood or DNA to destroy latent fingerprints.
 Quality Control and Quality Assurance Performed

The procedure of a crime scene investigation, from the

pital scene survey to the submission of evidénce to the
forensic laboratory is designed to ensure a thorough,
high-quality investigation.

As a final quality assurance step before taking down the crime

tape and releasing the scene, a debriefing is conducted to
ensure the investigation of the area is complete. During this
review, the team discusses the evidence that was collected, any
notable findings, the laboratory test that may be required, the
ordered in which evidence should be tested and any post-scene
responsibilities.
 The lead investigator then directs a walk-through to visually
inspect each area, ensuring that all collected evidence is
accounted for and any materials or conditions that may pose
hazards are addressed

One crucial aspect of quality assurance for physical evidence is chain

of custody. Ensuring seamless chain of custody helps make certain
that all evidence was handled properly and there was no opportunity
for tampering to occur. It is imperative that a seamless chronological
record be created indicating each person who takes possession of a
piece of evidence, the duration of custody and the security of the
storage conditions. If this chain is broken at any time or can be shown
to have gaps, the value of the evidence could be diminished at trial.
The lead investigator then directs a walk-through to visually inspect
each area, ensuring that all collected evidence is accounted for and
any materials or conditions that may pose hazards are addressed

One crucial aspect of quality assurance for physical evidence is chain

of custody. Ensuring a seamless chain of custody helps make certain
that all evidence was handled properly and there was no opportunity
for tampering to occur. It is imperative that a seamless chronological
record be created indicating each person who takes possession of a
piece of evidence, the duration of custody, and the security of the
storage conditions. If this chain is broken at any time or can be
shown to have gaps, the value of the evidence could be diminished at
trial.
Once evidence is submitted to the forensic laboratory, there are
policies and procedures in place governing the facilities and
equipment, methods and procedures, and analyst qualifications
and training. Depending on the state in which it operates, a crime
laboratory may be required to achieve accreditation to verify
that it meets quality standards. There are two internationally
recognized accrediting programs focused on forensic
laboratories:
 Information included in the Report

A crime sone report is often referred to as a crime scene supplement

because it supplements, the initial report completed by the
investigating, officer, The crime scene supplement report contains
information such as:
1. Date/time when technicians arrive
2. Weather conditions at the scene
3. Perpetrator's point of entry and exit (if this can be determined)
4. Theory about perpetrator's movements/ actions
5. List of evidence collected
6. List of photos/ videos taken
7. Vehicle descriptions
8. Emergency medical personnel documents
9. Sketches/diagrams of the scene
10. List of related subjects (suspects, victim, others involved)
 Misconceptions in Crime Scene Investigation

Due to the popularity of crime scene television dramas,

misconceptions abound regarding this area of forensic
investigation. For example, crime scene personnel usually don't
also work in the forensic laboratory as well. The depiction of a
crime scene investigator retrieving the evidence, whisking it back
to the lab for analysis, and solving the crime is far from reality. In
addition, analysts routinely specialize in one particular area of
examination. A DNÀ analyst won't likely be called to examine
fingerprints, for example. In addition, the majority of crime
scenes investigated are not of a high-profile nature, like a
homicide case.
 Investigators spend the majority of their time collecting evidence
from scenes of burglaries or lesser crimes. Crime scene
investigation is not a glamorous activity unlike how it is often
portrayed in popular culture.
While some in the crime scene techniques seen on Wevision are
inaccurate or overdramatized, new noon tele continually being introduced
to allowed, new tools personnel to more thoroughly examine, disime
scene pecover evidence from a scene. The advent of alternate light
sourceschas helped technicians find bibernate sidence much more easily,
and the introduction of -laser scanning technology has made it much
easier to thoroughly and accurately document crime seester But even
with these advanced tools and technology, crime scene investigation
relies primarily on the skills and knowledge of the investigators and
forensic scientists involved.
 CHAPTER VIII
COMPLETING AND RECORDING THE
CRIME SCENE INVESTUGATION
 A. ARRIVING AT THE SCENE

1. INITIAL RESPONSE/RECEIPT OF INFORMATION-

ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF SECURING THE CRIME SCENE IS TO PRESERVE THE SCENE WITH MINIMAL
CONTAMINATION AND DISTURBANCE OF PHYSICAL EVIDENCE. THE INITIAL RESPONSE TO AN INCIDENT SHALL BE
EXPEDITIOUS AND METHODICAL. UPON ARRIVAL, THE OFFICER(S) SHALL ASSESS THE SCENE AND TREAT THE INCIDENT
AS A CRIME SCENE. THE INITIAL RESPONDING OFFICER(S) SHALL PROMPTLY, YET CAUTIOUSLY, APPROACH AND ENTER
CRIME SCENES, REMAINING OBSERVANT OF ANY PERSONS, VEHICLES, EVENTS, POTENTIAL EVIDENCE,
AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS.

The initial responding officer(s) should:

a. Note or log dispatch information (e.g., address/ location, time, date, type of
call, parties involved).
b. Be aware of any persons or vehicles leaving
the crime scene.

c. Approach the scene cautiously, scan the entire area to thoroughly assess the scene, and
note any possible secondary crime scenes. Be aware of any persons and vehicles in the
vicinity that may be related to the crime.
 d. Make initial observations (look, listen, smell) to assess the scene and ensure officer
safety before proceeding.

e. Remain alert and attentive. Assume the crime is ongoing until determined to be
otherwise. f. Treat the location as a crime scene until assessed and determined to be
otherwise.

f. Treat the location as a crime scene until assessed and determined to be otherwise.

Note: It is important for the initial responding officer(s) to be observant when approaching,
entering, and exiting a crime scene.

2. Safety Procedures-
The safety and physical well- being of officers and other individuals, in and around the
crime scene, are the initial responding officer(s) first priority. The initial responding
officer(s) arriving at the scene shall identify and control any dangerous situations or
persons.
The initial responding officer(s) should:
A. Ensure that there is no immediate threat to other responders scan area for sights, sounds, and smells that may
present danger to personnel (e.g., hazardous materials such as gasoline, natural gas). If the situation involves a
clandestine drug laboratory, biological weapons, or radiological or chemical threats the appropriate
personnel/agency should be contacted prior to entering the scene.
 b. Approach the scene in a manner designed to reduce risk of harm to officer(s) while maximizing the safety of
victims, witnesses, and others in the area.

c. Survey the scene for dangerous persons and control the situation.

d. Notify supervisory personnel and call for ATOR assistance/backup.

Note: The control of physical threats will ensure the safety of officers and others present.

3. Emergency Care. After controlling any dangerous situations or persons, the initial responding officer(s) next
responsibility is to ensure that medical attention is provided to injured persons while minimizing contamination of
the scene. The initial responding officer(s) shall ensure that medical attention is provided with minimal
contamination of the scene.
The initial responding officer(s) should:

a. Assess the victim(s) for signs of life and medical needs and provide immediate medical attention.
b. Call for medical personnel.

c. Guide medical personnel to the victim to minimize contamination/ alteration of the crime scene.
d. Point out potential physical evidence to medical personnel, instruct them to minimize contact with such
evidence (e.g., ensure that medical personnel preserve all clothing and personal effects without cutting through
bullet holes, knife tears), and document movement of persons or items by medical personnel.
 e. Instruct medical personnel not to "clean up"
bird the scene and to avoid removal or items originating from the scene.

f. If medical personnel arrived first, obtain the name, unit, and telephone number of
attending personnel, and the name and location of the medical facility where the victim
is to be taken.

g. If there is a chance the victim may die, attempt

to obtain "dying declaration

h. Document any statements/comments made by victims, suspects, or witnesses at the scene.

i. If the victim or suspect is transported to a medical facility, send a law enforcement official with the victim or
suspect to document any comments made and preserve evidence. (If no abro officers are available to
accompany the victim/ suspect, stay at the scene and request medical personnel to preserve evidence and
document any comments made by the victim or suspect.)

Note: Assisting, guiding, and instructing medical personnel during the care and removal of injured persons will
diminish the risk of contamination and loss of evidence.
4. Secure and Control Persons at the Scene.
Controlling, identifying, and removing persons at the crime scene and limiting the
number of persons who enter the crime scene and the movement of such persons
is an important function of the initial responding officer(s) in protecting the crime
scene. The initial responding officer(s) shall identify persons at the crime scene
and control their movement.
The initial responding officer(s) should:
A. Control all individuals at the scene prevent individuals from altering/destroying
physical evidence by restricting movement, location, and activity while ensuring
and maintaining safety at the scene.
B. Identify all individuals at the scene, such as:
●Suspects: Secure and separate. Witnesses: Secure and separate.
●Bystanders: Determine whether witness, if so treat as above, if not, remove from
the scene.
●Victims/family/friends: control while showing compassion.
●Medical and other assisting personnel.
C. Exclude unauthorized and nonessential personnel from the scene (e.g., law
enforcement officials not working the case, politicians, media).
Note: Controlling the movement of persons at the crime scene and limiting the
number of persons who enter the crime scene is essential to maintaining scene
integrity, safeguarding evidence, and minimizing contamination.

5. Boundaries: Identify, Establish, Protect, and Secure.

Defining and controlling boundaries provide a means for protecting and securing
the crime scene(s). The number of crime scenes and their boundaries are
determined by their location(s) and the type of crime. Boundaries shall be
established beyond the initial scope of the crime scene(s) with the understanding
that the boundaries can be reduced in size if necessary but cannot be as casily
expanded. The initial responding officer(s) at the scene shall conduct an initial
assessment to establish and control the crime scene(s) and its boundaries.
The initial responding officer(s) should:
A. Establish boundaries of the scene(s), starting at the focal point and extending
outward to include:
● Where the crime occurred.
●Potential points and paths of exit and entry of suspects and witnesses.
●Places where the victim/evidence may have been moved (be aware of trace and
impression evidence while assessing the
scene).
B. Set up physical barriers (e.g., ropes, cones, crime scene barrier tape, available
vehicles, personnel, other equipment) or use existing boundaries (e.g., doors, walls,
gates).
C. Document the entry/exit of all people entering and leaving the scene, once
boundaries have been established.
Document the entry/exit of all people entering and leaving the scene, once
boundaries have been established.
D. Control the flow of personnel and animals entering and leaving the scene to
maintain integrity of the scene.
E. Effect measures to preserve/protect evidence that may be lost or
compromised (e.g., protect from the elements (rain, snow, wind) nd from
footsteps, tire tracks, sprinklers).
F. Document the original location of the victim or objects that you observe
being moved.
G. Consider search and seizure issues to determine the necessity of obtaining
consent to search and/or obtaining a search warrant.

Note: Persons should not smoke, chew tobacco, use the telephone or
bathroom, eat or drink, move any items including weapons (unless necessary
for the safety and well-being of persons at the scene), adjust the thermostat
or open windows or doors (maintain scene as found), touch anything
unnecessarily (note and document any items moved), reposition moved
items, litter, or spit within the established boundaries of the scene.
Establishing boundaries is a critical aspect in controlling the integrity of
evidentiary material.
 6. TURN OVER OF THE SCENE AND BRIEF INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE. BRIEFING THE
INVESTIGATOR(S) TAKING CHARGE ASSISTS IN CONTROLLING THE CRIME SCENE AND
HELPS ESTABLISH FURTHER INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES. THE INITIAL RESPONDING
OFFICER(S) AT THE SCENE SHALL PROVIDE A DETAILED CRIME SCENE BRIEFING TO THE
INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE OF THE SCENE.

THE INITIAL RESPONDING OFFICER(S) SHOULD:

A. BRIEF THE INVESTIGATOR(S) TAKING CHARGE.

B. ASSIST IN CONTROLLING THE SCENE.

C. TURN OVER RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE DOCUMENTATION OF ENTRY/EXIT.

D. REMAIN AT THE SCENE UNTIL RELIEVED OF DUTY.

DISCUSSION: THE SCENE BRIEFING IS THE ONLY OPPORTUNITY FOR THE NEXT IN
COMMAND TO OBTAIN INITIAL ASPECTS OF THE CRIME SCENE PRIOR TO SUBSEQUENT
INVESTIGATION.
 7. DOCUMENT ACTIONS AND OBSERVATIONS. ALL ACTIVITIES CONDUCTED AND
OBSERVATIONS MADE AT THE CRIME SCENE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE AFTER THE EVENT TO PRESERVE INFORMATION. DOCUMENTATION MUST BE
MAINTAINED PERMANENT RECORD. AS A

THE INITIAL RESPONDING OFFICER(S) SHOULD DOCUMENT:

A. OBSERVATIONS OF THE CRIME SCENE, INCLUDING THE LOCATION OF PERSONS AND

ITEMS WITHIN THE CRIME SCENE AND THE APPEARANCE AND CONDITION OF THE
SCENE UPON ARRIVAL.

B. CONDITIONS UPON ARRIVAL (E.G., LIGHTS ON/ OFF; SHADES UP/DOWN,

OPEN/CLOSED; DOORS, WINDOWS, OPEN/CLOSED; SMELLS; ICE, LIQUIDS; MOVABLE
FURNITURE; WEATHER; TEMPERATURE; AND PERSONAL ITEMS.)

C. PERSONAL INFORMATION FROM WITNESSES, VICTIMS, SUSPECTS, AND ANY

STATEMENTS OR COMMENTS MADES.

D. OWN ACTIONS AND ACTIONS OF OTHERS.

 THE CRIME SCENE MUST PRODUCE CLEAR, CONCISE, OBSERVATIONS AND ACTIONS. THIS IS VITAL IN
PROVIDING INFORMATION INVESTIGATIVE CONSIDERATIONS. OR HER DOCUMENTATION

B. PRELIMINARY DOCUMENTATION EVALUATION OF THE SCENE AND

1. CONDUCT SCENE ASSESSMENT. ASSESSMENT OF THE SCENE BY THE INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE ALLOWS
FOR THE DETERMINATION OF THE TYPE OF INCIDENT TO BE INVESTIGATED AND THE LEVEL OF INVESTIGATION
TO BE CONDUCTED. THE INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE SHALL IDENTIFY SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES, SHARE
PRELIMINARY INFORMATION, ,AND DEVELOP INVESTIGATIVE PLANS IN ACCORDANCE WITH DEPARTMENTAL
POLICY AND LOCAL, STATE, AND FEDERAL LAWS.

THE INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE SHOULD:

A. CONVERSE WITH THE FIRST RESPONDER(S) REGARDING OBSERVATIONS/ ACTIVITIES.

B. EVALUATE SAFETY ISSUES THAT MAY AFFECT ALL PERSONNEL ENTERING THE SCENE(S) (E.G., BLOOD BORNE
PATHOGENS, HAZARDS).

C. EVALUATE SEARCH AND SEIZURE ISSUES TO DETERMINE THE NECESSITY OF OBTAINING CONSENT TO
SEARCH AND/OR OBTAINING A SEARCH WARRANT.

D. EVALUATE AND ESTABLISH A PATH OF ENTRY/ EXIT TO THE SCENE TO BE UTILIZED BY AUTHORIZED
PERSONNEL.

E. EVALUATE INITIAL SCENE BOUNDARIES.

F. DETERMINE THE NUMBER/SIZE OF SCENE(S) AND PRIORITIZE.

G. ESTABLISH A SECURE AREA WITHIN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE SCENE(S) FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSULTATION AND
EQUIPMENT STAGING.

H. IF MULTIPLE SCENES EXIST, ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN COMMUNICATION WITH PERSONNEL AT THOSE LOCATIONS.

I. ESTABLISH A SECURE AREA FOR TEMPORARY EVIDENCE STORAGE IN ACCORDANCE WITH RULES OF EVIDENCE/ CHAIN
OF CUSTODY.

J. DETERMINE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL INVESTIGATIVE RESOURCES AS REQUIRED (E.G., PERSONNEL/ SPECIALIZED
UNITS, LEGAL CONSULTATION/ PROSECUTORS, EQUIPMENT).

K. ENSURE CONTINUED SCENE INTEGRITY (E.G., DOCUMENT ENTRY/EXIT OF AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL, PREVENT
UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO THE SCENE).

1. ENSURE THAT WITNESSES TO THE INCIDENT ARE IDENTIFIED AND SEPARATED (E.G., OBTAIN VALID ID).

M. ENSURE THE SURROUNDING AREA IS CANVASSED AND THE RESULTS ARE DOCUMENTED.

N. ENSURE PRELIMINARY DOCUMENTATION / PHOTOGRAPHY OF THE SCENE, INJURED PERSONS, AND VEHICLES.

DISCUSSION: SCENE ASSESSMENT ALLOWS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A PLAN FOR THE COORDINATED
IDENTIFICATION, COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION OF PHYSICAL EVIDENCE AND IDENTIFICATION OF WITNESSES. IT
ALSO ALLOWS FOR THE EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION AMONG LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL AND THE
DEVELOPMENT OF INVESTIGATIVE STRATEGIES.

2. CONDUCT SCENE "WALK-THROUGH" AND INITIAL DOCUMENTATION. THE SCENE "WALK-THROUGH" PROVIDES AN
OVERVIEW OF THE ENTIRE SCENE, IDENTIFIES ANY THREATS TO SCENE INTEGRITY, AND ENSURES PROTECTION OF
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHIC DOCUMENTATION PROVIDES A PERMANENT RECORD. THE
INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE SHALL CONDUCT A WALKTHROUGH OF THE SCENE.
DURING THE SCENE WALK-THROUGH, THE INVESTIGATOR(S)
IN CHARGE SHOULD:

A. AVOID CONTAMINATING THE SCENE BY USING THE

ESTABLISHED PATH OF ENTRY.

B. PREPARE PRELIMINARY DOCUMENTATION OF THE SCENE

AS OBSERVED .

C. IDENTIFY AND PROTECT THE FRAGILE AND/OR

PERISHABLE EVIDENCE (E.G., CONSIDER CLIMATIC
CONDITIONS, CROWDS/HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT.
D. ENSURE THAT ALL EVIDENCE THAT MAY BE COMPROMISED IS
IMMEDIATELY DOCUMENTED PHOTOGRAPHED AND COLLECTED.

DISCUSSION: CONDUCTING A SCENE WALK- THROUGH PROVIDES

THE INVESTIGATORS IN CHARGE WITH AN OVERVIEW OF THE
ENTIRE SCENE. THE WALKTHROUGH PROVIDES THE FIRST
OPPORTUNITY TO IDENTIFY VALUABLE AND FRAGILE EVIDENCE
AND DETERMINE INITIAL INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURES
PROVIDING FOR A SYSTEMATIC EXAMINATION AND
DOCUMENTATION OF THE SCENE. WRITTEN IN PHOTOGRAPHIC
DOCUMENTATION RECORDS THE CONDITION OF THE SCENE AS
FIRST OBSERVED, PROVIDING A PERMANENT RECORD.
 C. CRIME SCENE PROCESSING

1. DETERMINE TEAM COMPOSITION. BASED ON THE

TYPE OF INCIDENT AND COMPLEXITY OF THE SCENE,
THE INVESTIGATOR IN CHARGE SHALL DETERMINE
TEAM COMPOSITION.TRAINED PERSONNEL SHALL
PERFORM SCENE PROCESSING. THE INVESTIGATOR IN
CHARGE SHALL ACCESS THE SCENE TO DETERMINE
SPECIALIZED RESOURCES REQUIRED.

FOLLOWING THE WALK THROUGH THE INVESTIGATOR

IN CHARGE SHOULD:
A. ASSESS THE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL. BE AWARE FOR THE
NEED FOR ADDITIONAL PERSONNEL IN CASES OF MULTIPLE SCENE
,MULTIPLE VICTIMS, NUMEROUS WITNESSES ,OR OTHER
CIRCUMSTANCES.

B. ASSESS FORENSIC NEEDS AND CALL FORENSIC SPECIALIST TO THE

SCENE OF EXPERTISE AND/OR EQUIPMENT.

C. ENSURE THAT SCENE SECURITY AND THE ENTRY/EXIT

DOCUMENTATION ARE CONTINUED.

D. SELECT QUALIFIED PERSONS TO PERFORM SPECIALIZED TASKS (E.G.,

PHOTOGRAPHY, SKETCH, LATENT PRINTS, EVIDENCE COLLECTION).

E. DOCUMENT TEAM MEMBERS AND ASSIGNMENTS.

2. CONTAMINATION CONTROL. CONTAMINATION CONTROL AND PREVENTING
CROSS CONTAMINATION AT SINGLE OR MULTIPLE SCENES IS ESSENTIAL TO
MAINTAINING THE SAFETY OF PERSONNEL AND THE INTEGRITY OF EVIDENCE.
THE INVESTIGATOR IN CHARGE SHALL REQUIRED ALL PERSONNEL TO FOLLOW
PROCEDURES TO ENSURE SCENE SAFETY AND EVIDENCE INTEGRITY.

OTHER RESPONDERS AND/OR TEAM MEMBERS SHOULD:

A. LIMIT SCENE ASSESS TO PEOPLE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN SCENE

PROCESSING.

B.FOLLOW ESTABLISHED ENTRY/EXIT ROUTES AT THE SCENE.

C. IDENTIFY FIRST RESPONDERS AND CONSIDER COLLECTION OF ELIMINATION

SAMPLES.

D.DESIGNATE SECURE AREA FOR TRASH AND EQUIPMENT.

E.USE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT(PPE) TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION

OF PERSONNEL AND TO MINIMIZE SCENE CONTAMINATION.
 F. CLEAN/ SANITIZE OR DISPOSE OF TOOLS/ EQUIPMENT AND PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
BETWEEN EVIDENCE COLLECTIONS AND/OR SCENES.

G. UTILIZE SINGLE -USE EQUIPMENT WHEN PERFORMING DIRECT COLLECTION OF BIOLOGICAL SAMPLES.

DISCUSSION: MINIMIZE CONTAMINATION BY BEING SAFE, CLEAN, AND CAREFUL TO ENSURE THE
WELFARE OF PERSONNEL AND THE INTEGRITY OF THE EVIDENCE.

3. DOCUMENTATION. AN ASSESSMENT OF THE SCENE DETERMINES WHAT KIND OF DOCUMENTATION IS

NEEDED.(E.G. PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, SKETCHES, MEASUREMENTS,NOTES). THE INVESTIGATOR IN
CHARGE SHALL ENSURE DOCUMENTATION OF THE SCENE

THE TEAM MEMBERS SHOULD:

A. REVIEW ASSESSMENT OF THE SCENES TO DETERMINE THE TYPE OF DOCUMENTATION NEEDED.

B. COORDINATE PHOTOGRAPHS VIDEO SKETCHES MEASUREMENT AND NOTES

C. PHOTOGRAPH

SCENE UTILIZING OVERALL MEDIUM AND CLOSE UP COVERAGE

EVIDENCE TO BE COLLECTED WITH AND WITHOUT MEASUREMENT SCALE AND OR EVIDENCE IDENTIFIERS.
 VICTIMS ,SUSPECTS ,WITNESSES, CROWD AND VEHICLES

ADDITIONAL PERSPECTIVES(E.G. AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS, WITNESS

VIEW, AREA UNDER BODY ONCE BODY IS REMOVED.

D. VIDEOTAPE AS OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENT TO PHOTOS.

E. PREPARE PRELIMINARY SKETCHES AND MEASURE:

IMMEDIATE AREA OF THE SCENE NOTING CASE IDENTIFIERS AND

INDICATING NORTH ON THE SKETCH.

RELATIVE LOCATION OF SYSTEMS OF EVIDENCE AND CORRELATE

EVIDENCE ITEMS WITH EVIDENCE RECORDS.
4. Prioritize Collection of Evidence. Prioritize the collection of evidence to prevent
loss, destruction, or contamination. The investigator(s) in charge and team
members shall determine the order in which evidence is collected.

The team member(s) should:

a. Conduct a careful and methodical evaluation considering all physical evidence
possibilities (e.g., biological fluids, latent prints, trace evidence).

b. Focus first on the easily accessible areas in open view and proceed to out-of-view
locations.

c. Select a systematic search pattern for evidence collection based on the size and
location of the scene(s).

d. Select a progression of processing/collection that initial techniques do methods not

compromise subsequent processing/ collections methods.
Concentrate on the most transient evidence and work to the least transient forms of physical
evidence.

Move from least intrusive to most intrusive processing/ collection methods.

e. Continually assess environmental and other factors that may affect the evidence.

Be aware of multiple scenes (e.g., victims, suspects, vehicles, locations).

g. Recognize other methods that are available to locate, technically document, and collect
evidence (e.g., alternate light source enhancement, blood pattern documentation, projectile
trajectory analysis).

Discussion: Prioritization provides for the timely and methodical preservation and collection
of evidence.
5. Collect, Preserve, Inventory, Transport, and Submit Evidence. The handling Package, of
physical evidence is one of the most important factors of the investigation. The team
member(s) shall ensure the effective collection, preservation, packaging, and transport of
evidence.
The team member(s) should:

a. Maintain scene security throughout processing and until the scene is released.

b. Document the collection of evidence by recording its location at the scene, date of
collection, and who collected it.
c. Collect each item identified as evidence.

d. Establish chain of custody.

e. Obtain standard/reference samples from the scene.

f. Obtain control samples.

g. Consider obtaining elimination samples.

h. Immediately secure electronically recorded evidence (e.g., answering machine tapes,
surveillance camera videotapes, computers) from the vicinity.

i. Identify and secure evidence in containers (e.g., label, date, initial container) at the
crime scene. Different types of evidence require different containers (e.g., porous,
nonporous crushproof).
j. Package items to avoid contamination and cross-contamination.

k. Document the condition of firearms/weapons prior to rendering them safe for

transportation and submission.

I. Avoid excessive handling of evidence after it is collected.

m. Maintain evidence at the scene in a manner designed to diminish degradation or loss.

n. Transport and submit evidence items for secure storage.

Discussion: Evidence at crime scenes that is in the process of documentation,
collection, preservation, or packaging should be handled with attention to
scene integrity and protection from contamination or deleterious change.
During the processing of the scene, and following documentation, evidence
should be appropriately packaged, labeled, and maintained in a secure,
temporary manner until final packaging and submission to a secured evidence
storage facility or the crime laboratory.
01. ESTABLISH CRIME SCENE DEBRIEFING TEAM

The crime scene debriefing law enforcement

personnel and other responders to share
information regarding particular scene
findings prior to releasing the scene.
A. Establish a crime debriefing team, which includes the investigator(s)
in charge of the crime scene, other investigators and evidence
collection personnel photographers, evidence technicians, latent print
personnel, specialized personnel, and initial responding officer(s) if still
present.
B. Determine what evidence was collected.
C. Discuss preliminary scene findings with team members.
D. Discuss potential technical forensic testing and the sequence of
tests to be performed.
E. Initiate any action(s) identified in discussion required to complete
the crime scene investigation.
F. Brief personal(s) in charge upon completion of assigned crime
scene tasks.
G. Establish post-scene reponsibilities for law enforcement personnel and
other responders
DISCUSSION:
The crime scene debriefing is the best opportunity for law
enforcement personnel and other responders to ensure that the
crime scene investigation is complete.
02. PERFORM FINAL SURVEY OF THE CRIME SCENE.
Final survey of the crime scene ensures that evidence has been
collected and the scene has been processed prior to release. In
addition, a systematic review of the scene ensures that evidence,
equipment, or materials generated by the investigation are not
inadvertently left behind and any dangerous materials or
conditions have been reported and addressed.
THE INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE SHOULD ENSURE THAT:

A. Each area identified as part of the crime scene is visually

inspected.
B. All evidence collected at the scene is accounted for.
C. All equipment and materials generated by the investigation are
removed.
D. Any dangerous materials or conditions are reported and
addressed.
E. The crime scene is released in accordance with jurisdictional
requirements.
DISCUSSION:
Conducting a scene walk-through ensures that all evidence has
been collected, that materials are not inadvertently left behind,
and that any dangerous materials or conditions have been
reported and addressed.

03. DOCUMENTATION OF THE CRIME SCENE.

Reports and other documentation pertaining to the crime
scene investigation shall be compiled into a “case file” by the
investigator(s) in charge
 THE INVESTIGATOR(S) IN CHARGE SHOULD OBTAIN THE
FOLLOWING FOR THE CRIME SCENE CASE FILE:
A. Initial responding officer(s) documentation.
B. Emergency medical personnel documentations.
C. Entry / exit documentation.
D. Photographs / videos.
E. Crime scene sketches / diagrams.
F. Evidence Documentations.
G. Other responders documentation.
H. Records of consent form or search warrant.
I. Reports such as forensic / technical reports should be added to
this.
J. File when they become available.