Processing the Crime Scene

Summary

This script offers an in-depth guide to processing a homicide crime scene, emphasizing the importance of thorough evidence collection and crime scene reconstruction. It outlines various search methods, including lane, grid, zone, and spiral searches, and stresses the need for careful consideration before evidence collection to avoid disrupting potential reconstruction scenarios. The script also highlights the significance of maintaining evidence integrity and the consequences of overlooked evidence, as illustrated by a real-world example of a missed gun at a shooting scene.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Start the crime scene investigation by documenting the exterior and general vicinity before moving inside to process the scene.
• 📸 Photograph and measure any points of entry, such as windows or doors, and use these as starting points for indoor processing.
• 👥 Prioritize the collection of evidence with the team, and consider crime scene reconstruction before collecting to avoid disrupting the scene.
• 🔬 Use tent numbers to mark and identify pieces of evidence before collection, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the scene.
• 🔎 Different search methods like lane, grid, zone, and spiral searches are used depending on the size and nature of the area to be searched.
• 🏠 For indoor scenes, zone search is preferred for its thoroughness, while spiral search is less common indoors.
• 💡 Use a flashlight at an oblique angle to highlight evidence, especially in small, detailed areas, ensuring a comprehensive search.
• 🚫 Remember to turn on lights to aid in the search, as darkness can obscure evidence.
• 🔑 Collect, preserve, inventory, package, transport, and submit evidence carefully to maintain its integrity and prevent contamination.
• 👀 Listen to the evidence; it can provide insights and theories about the crime that may not be immediately apparent.
• 🔮 Crime scene reconstruction uses scientific methods and deductive reasoning to understand the sequence of events, which can be vital for proving or disproving witness and suspect statements.

Q & A

What is the initial step in processing a homicide scene?

The initial step in processing a homicide scene is to start outside the residence, document any signs of evidence outside, photograph it, and add it to the sketch along with measurements of the general vicinity.

Why is it important to document the outside of a crime scene before entering?

Documenting the outside of a crime scene is crucial as it can provide valuable evidence, such as points of entry, escape routes, or any signs that could link to the crime, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the crime scene.

What is a common method used to mark and identify evidence at a crime scene?

A common method used to mark and identify evidence at a crime scene is by placing tent numbers around each piece of evidence before collecting anything.

Why is crime scene reconstruction considered before collecting evidence?

Crime scene reconstruction is considered before collecting evidence to ensure that the collection process does not disrupt the scene in a way that could hinder the understanding of the events that occurred, such as bullet trajectory or blood stain patterns.

What are the four types of crime scene searches mentioned in the script?

The four types of crime scene searches mentioned are the lane or strip search, the grid search, the zone search, and the spiral search.

Why is the zone search preferred for indoor crime scenes?

The zone search is preferred for indoor crime scenes because it involves dividing the area into smaller zones and searching each one thoroughly, which helps in being meticulous and ensuring no area is missed.

How does the grid search differ from the lane or strip search?

The grid search differs from the lane or strip search in that it involves changing direction and double backing, ensuring the area is covered twice for a more thorough search.

What is the purpose of using a flashlight during the zone search?

Using a flashlight during the zone search helps to focus attention on smaller areas at a time and use an oblique angle to create shadows that can reveal evidence that might blend in with the surroundings.

Why is it crucial to consider the integrity of evidence during its collection and handling?

Maintaining the integrity of evidence is crucial to ensure that it remains uncontaminated and effective for the investigation, as compromised evidence could be deemed inadmissible in court.

What is an example of a situation where thorough searching is critical, as illustrated in the script?

An example where thorough searching is critical is the situation where a gun was missed at a shooting scene near Georgia State University, highlighting the importance of careful and comprehensive searches to avoid missing crucial evidence.