Crime Scene

Processing a crime scene is not really as simple as what we see on television; it takes many hours of hard work, and details in order to be done correctly. When processing a crime scene documentation, and collection of evidence is needed in order to help bring to light what really occurred. Without proper documentation of what occurred at the scene, investigators would be unable to properly initiate a thorough investigation.

The first step in processing a crime scene is done by the first responder/s. Once the first responder/s arrives they should make sure the suspect is not still present at the scene of the crime, and attend to any victim that may need help. When the first responder/s arrive, they should treat the area as if a crime was still occurring, and be extremely observant to any suspicious people and/or vehicles at or leaving the scene of the crime. If there are any witnesses or suspects, they should be detained. Once the scene is secure, the next responsibility is to preserve and protect the scene of the crime. This is usually done by using yellow tape as a barricade, and deciding one entry and an exit point for other members assisting in processing the scene. This is done in order to preserve evidence, and avoid contamination. The first responding officer should also keep a detailed log that will include what he/she observed as they arrived on the scene. Included in the log will also be any crime scene personnel, which enter and exit the crime scene (Saferstein, R. 2009)

Once the first responders secure, preserve, and protect the scene the crime scene investigator(s) will get the district attorney involved, in case a search warrant may be needed. This is to ensure anything collected was not over stepping an expectation of privacy, and the evidence can be admissible in court. Once they have the warrant the first initial walk through is done. At this point the CSI will determine the organization and coordination methods of the crime scene, based off the initial walk through by the lead investigator, and an evaluation of the scene. The lead investigator comes up with a plan of action that will include prioritizing the sequence of the actions to take throughout processing the scene (Crime scene and physical evidence for non-forensic personnel 2009). The lead investigator then assigns specific tasks to each person taking part in the investigation, taking into consideration whether the scene is indoors or outdoors, because an outdoor scene or part of the scene may take a higher priority due to it getting dark, or rain/snow. All fragile evidence should be collected first.

Following the initial walk-through is when the investigators, start to document the crime scene. Documentation includes clear, concise notes, reports, photos, sketches, and videos when available. Any documentation that is provided should just state the facts and exclude personal opinions. The four main points investigators use when note-taking