Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for Law Enforcement

Introduction

• Developed by the Technical Working Group on Crime Scene Investigation
• Updated by a Review Committee in September 2012
• Directed by Kevin Lothridge and managed by Frank Fitzpatrick
• Published by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, U.S. Department of Justice

Arriving at the Scene: Initial Response/Prioritization of Efforts

Initial Response/Receipt of Information

• Principle: Preserve the crime scene with minimal contamination.
• Policy: Responding officers to assess and treat the scene as a crime scene.
• Procedure:
  • Log dispatch information
  • Observe for persons or vehicles leaving the scene
  • Approach cautiously, scan area
  • Remain observant for people, vehicles related to crime
  • Ensure officer safety
  • Treat the location as a crime scene
  • Direct additional units safely

Safety Procedures

• Principle: Officer safety is the top priority.
• Policy: Identify and control dangerous situations or persons.
• Procedure:
  • Recognize threats (e.g., hazardous materials)
  • Approach scene safely
  • Survey scene for danger
  • Notify supervisory personnel

Emergency Care

• Principle: Provide medical attention without contaminating the scene.
• Policy: Ensure minimal contamination while offering medical aid.
• Procedure:
  • Assess and provide medical attention
  • Guide medical personnel
  • Document movements and statements
  • Preserve evidence
  • Send officer with victim/suspect if transported

Secure and Control Persons at the Scene

• Principle: Limit and control persons at the scene.
• Policy: Identify and control movement at the scene.
• Procedure:
  • Restrict movement to preserve evidence
  • Secure and separate suspects and witnesses
  • Exclude unauthorized personnel

Boundaries: Identify, Establish, Protect, Secure

• Principle: Protect and secure the crime scene boundaries.
• Policy: Initial officers to assess and establish boundaries.
• Procedure:
  • Establish and secure boundaries
  • Document entry/exit
  • Protect the scene
  • Consider search warrant necessities

Turn Over Control of the Scene and Brief Investigator(s)

• Principle: Briefing assists in crime scene management.
• Policy: Provide detailed briefing to investigators.
• Procedure:
  • Brief and assist investigators
  • Turn over documentation responsibilities

Document Actions and Observations

• Principle: Document all activities and observations.
• Policy: Maintain documentation as a permanent record.
• Procedure:
  • Document scene observations and conditions
  • Record statements and actions

Establish a Command Post

• Principle: Coordinate activities and communications through a command post.
• Policy: Set up a central location for coordination.
• Procedure:
  • Establish a command post
  • Notify necessary departments and personnel
  • Use assignment sheets for coordination

Manage Witnesses

• Principle: Timely interviewing is crucial.
• Policy: Secure and process witnesses according to regulations.
• Procedure:
  • Interview and obtain statements separately
  • Transport witnesses separately

Conclusion

• Timely and effective crime scene management is crucial for preserving evidence and solving crimes.
• Following established procedures ensures integrity and safety at the crime scene.