Approach the crime scene investigation as if it will be their only opportunity to preserve and recover physical evidence. Ensure a perimeter is established. Perimeter boundaries can be reduced in size if necessary but cannot be as easily expanded. Respond to the scene expeditiously. Ensure restricted entry of non-police personnel as well as police personnel not involved in the investigation of the crime. Vehicles involved in a crime should remain on scene until processed to prevent alteration or destruction of physical evidence.
Interview the officer on scene to ascertain their theory of what transpired. Conduct a scene assessment allows for the development of a plan for the coordinated identification, collection, and preservation of physical evidence. Conduct a walk through. The walk-through provides the opportunity to
identify fragile evidence and determine initial investigative procedures, providing for a systematic examination and documentation of the scene.
Take written notes and photographic documentation of the scene as a permanent record. Document all activities and observations using still photography, video, diagrams and sketches and measurements.
Assess the need for additional personnel, especially with multiple victims, multiple scenes, or a particularly large or otherwise complex crime scene. Process the scene to gather all pertinent evidence. Correctly label, package and preserve samples to ensure a continuous chain of custody and the integrity of the samples. Prioritize the collection of evidence to prevent loss, destruction, or contamination. Select a systematic search pattern for evidence collection based on the size and location of the scenes. Gather blood and tissue samples, trace evidence, physical evidence, ballistic evidence, semen and other fluids, fingerprints.
An article in Industrial Engineer (2004) suggests that law enforcement has a new investigational tool thanks to research that allo...