Forensics 101: What are the Things to Do in a Crime Scene?

Forensics 101: What are the Things to Do in a Crime Scene?

It is very unfortunate that crimes are still prevalent nowadays. How crimes are committed also leveled up with the modernization of technology. Nevertheless, crime scene investigators prove to be on par with technology and leverage on this to process evidence and scrutinize crime scenes.

Forensics 101: What are the Things to Do in a Crime Scene?

[ photo: pexels by kas wilcox ]

Secure the Crime Scene Perimeter

The initial step in processing a crime scene is to secure the perimeter. A crime scene investigator must identify the main area or the focal point where the crime happened. In some instances, this could be where a body is found, or where a place is ransacked. Once the main area is identified, the investigator usually determines a specific radius where relevant evidence may be present. 

It is a best practice to identify a larger zone because it will be easier to condense the crime scene area later on. It is also necessary to cordon off the area because anybody who has access to enter and exit the crime scene has the capability to take out the relevant evidence as well.

Conduct an Initial Crime Scene Survey

Even before collecting evidence and processing the crime scene, an investigator must come up with an initial theory of what transpired to anticipate what evidence may be collected. It is during this time that investigators strategize on how to collect evidence.

Witnesses or persons of interest may be interviewed to obtain substantial information. It is during this time that a lead investigator takes photos to document certain areas of the crime scene.

Process the Crime Scene

After an initial walk through the crime scene, it is time to collect the evidence according to the initial plan. All crime scene investigators processing the scene must be in collaboration and perform the necessary documentation. There are usually strict protocols that need to be followed in this process, including how the evidence is handled, stored, and labeled. Compromised evidence may have a significant impact on the investigation of the case.

PerCompromised evidence form a Final Walk-through and Release the Crime Scene

After processing the crime scene, the lead investigator usually performs another walk-through to ensure that no evidence is missing. It is in this process that collected evidence is logged for inventory, complete with a description and matching photo. All crime scene investigators also perform a final survey before releasing the crime scene. 

The immediate persons who handle the crime scene after its release are crime scene cleaners who perform blood clean ups and Biohazard removal among others. They are trained technicians who have the skills and knowledge necessary to make the area a habitable environment, conducive for living again. Once a crime scene is released, a warrant is often necessary to re-enter it again.

Crime scene investigators are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and character necessary to solve even the most puzzling crimes through the evidence they process in crime scenes. Even with the technological advancements that cater to forensic science, it still holds true, however, that being a crime scene investigator is not an easy feat.