Unit 4: Selection and Crime Scene Process

Preparation

1) Accumulate packaging and collection materials necessary for typical search circumstances.

2) Prepare the preliminary format for the paperwork needed to document the conducting of the search.

3) Insure that all specialists are aware of the overall forms of evidence usually encountered as well as the proper handling of these materials.

4) Evaluate the current legal ramifications of crime scene searches (e.g., obtaining of search warrants).

5) Discuss upcoming search with involved personnel before arrival at scene, if possible.

6) Select, when feasible, person-in-charge prior to arrival at scene.

7) Make preliminary personnel assignments before arrival at scene, if practicable.

8) Consider the safety and comfort of search personnel - do not be caught unprepared when encountering apotentially dangerous scene or inclement weather. Examples are:

a. clothing

b. communication

c. lighting assistance

d. shelter

e. transportation

f. food

g. medical assistance

h. scene security

i. equipment

9) Assess the personnel assignments normally required to successfully process a crime scene. The followinginformation is provided as an example:

Person- In-Charge

a. administrative log

b. narrative description

c. preliminary survey

d. scene security

e. final decision making

Photographer

a. photographs

b. photographic log

Sketch Preparer

a. sketch

b. documentation of items on sketch

Evidence Recorder

a. evidence log

b. evidence custodian

**Depending on circumstances and personnel availability, itmay not be feasible to have one person assigned to each duty. It is relatively common for one individual to accomplish two or more responsibilities.

10) In instances of prolonged search efforts, consider the use of shifts using two or more teams - transfer paper work and responsibility in a preplanned manner from one team to the next.

11) Organize communication with services of any ancillary nature (e.g.: medical examiner, prosecuting attorney) in order that questions which surface during the crime scene search may be resolved. Take steps to organize a “command post” headquarters for communication, decision making, etc. in major/complicated crime scene investigations.

12) The possibility of coordinating multi-jurisdiction scene investigations should be explored. It isadvantageous to have working agreements that are mutually acceptable to potentially involved agencies.These agreements should be made before confusion occurs in an actual multi-jurisdiction case, rather than as a later crisis response.