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CSI: How to examine a crime sceneCrime Scene Analysis 101
There is more to processing crime scenes than searching, writing notes, taking photos, collecting and tagging. Crime scene analysis is supposed to be a slow systematic job – with it’s own protocols and guidelines. This is something you don’t normally see on the CSI shows (Las Vegas, Miami and New York). Investigators sometimes slip up – usually when dealing with a crime in a high traffic area. As long as there is good communication and teamwork among investigators, crime scene analysis can be a smooth operation.
Interview, Examine, Photograph, Sketch, Process
Patrol Officer
Usually the first person on the scene. In charge of scene until relieved by a higher ranking officer. Has many roles at crime scene.
1. Record exact time of arrival and notify headquarters.
2. Enter scene - make sure entry path is safe.
3. Check for survivors and provide first aid.
4. Secure scene - know of all points of entry and exits.
5. Create a perimeter with some type of barrier.
6. Isolate witnesses and escort others from the scene.
7. Check for evidence and ensure it is not moved or damaged in any way.
8. Call for backup.
9. Take a photo of crowd (if any).
Sgt. (or Higher Ranking Officer)
1. Take a mental image of the area.
2. Get information (names, addresses, birthdates, phone numbers) of all people present.
3. Set up a command post.
4. Start a log - keep track of everyone entering and exiting the crime scene.
5. Interview witnesses.
6. If there is a death, notify homicide division.
Detective
1. Record your exact time of arrival.
2. Interview witnesses.
3. Canvass area - take a mental map of surroundings.
4. Record time, weather and light conditions, and number of people present.
5. Interview respomding officer and any other officers to get a sequence of events.
6. Arrange for witnesses to be taken to headquarters for statements.
7. Record information about the body (location, orientation, clothing).
8. If identity of victim is known, run a background check.
9. Check if any suspects are in custody.
Principal Investigators
1. Conduct a walkthrough (or preliminary survey).
2. Expand boundaries around scene if needed.
3. Assist with photography and sketching of the crime scene.
4. Conduct appropriate search patterns.
5. Process evidence (marking, bagging and tagging).
6. Take detailed notes.
7. Coordinate questioning of witnesses and suspects.
8. Create primary reconstruction of the crime.
Lead Investigators
1. Maintain command post at crime scene.
2. Hand out assignments to appropriate persons.
3. Act as liason with coroner, medical examiner, criminalists, and media.
4. Get collected evidence ready for transport and storage.
5. Prepare official reports.
6. Decide which lab tests are required and which specialists are required.
7. Assist in questioning of witnesses and suspects.
8. Organize the canvassing of the surrounding neighbourhood.
9. Conduct a final walk-through.
10. Organize final debriefing and release crime scene.
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