Crime Scene Investigation Procedures

The process of preventing the loss, destruction, contamination, or movement of evidence at a crime scene.

A designated path that everyone entering a crime scene must follow to minimize impact on evidence.

Protective plates placed on the ground to prevent contamination by footprints.

Markers used to identify and mark the location of evidence at a crime scene.

Covers used to protect evidence from the elements and contamination.

Dividing a crime scene into distinct areas to facilitate a systematic search for evidence.

A method of searching a crime scene zone by following a specific pattern to ensure thoroughness.

The process of carefully examining each zone of a crime scene for evidence before moving on to the next.

A detailed record of actions, observations, information, and evidence recovered at a crime scene.

The point in time when the crime scene was first attended.

A collection of photographs taken at a crime scene, including evidence found.

A visual representation of the crime scene, including key features and measurements.

A statement of facts for court, indicating what evidence has been collected and its unique reference numbers/descriptions.

A detailed, accurate drawing of the crime scene including measurements and the positions of all items of evidence.

Ensure the chain of custody is maintained by documenting every movement of evidence.

The process of recording the location from where evidence was collected.

A standard of practice for crime scene investigations developed by the European Network of Forensic Science Investigators.

Packaging evidence must be tamper-proof, sealed on all sides, labelled and initialled.

Signatures and initials on evidence packages to indicate handling and examination.

Record all relevant details on evidence labels.

The process of documenting the crime scene thoroughly using various methods.

Detailed account of the actions and movements of the perpetrator, including the point of entry, items moved or taken, and objects left behind.

A log meticulously documenting each photograph taken at the crime scene, including technical details like shutter speed, aperture, and camera distance.

A written statement summarizing the actions and observations of the CSI team, including evidence collected, investigative procedures, and conclusions drawn.

A written statement outlining the observations and actions of the first responders to the crime scene, including initial assessments and actions taken.

The primary purpose of a crime scene report is to aid in the investigation, not solely to gather statistical data.

Statements should be prepared in detail, replacing the need for court attendance. They should include all details about the crime scene, evidence, and the CSI's role.

The information gathered and recorded in a crime scene report must serve the ongoing investigation and should never be compromised for statistical reporting.

A written record of a Scene of Crime Officer's (SOCO) actions at a crime scene, which can be presented in court.

A legal requirement that all relevant evidence, including SOCO statements, must be disclosed to both the prosecution and defense teams.

A formal document outlining a SOCO's qualifications and experience, including their employment details.

A written record of a SOCO's actions at a crime scene, including the location, date, time, photographs taken, samples collected, and any examination conducted.

The process of recording the disposition of evidence collected at a crime scene, indicating where it was stored and how it was handled.

A technique that uses electrostatic charges to reveal indented writing on a document. This method is particularly useful for uncovering writing that is hidden beneath visible text or other marks.

A type of secret writing where intentional marks are used to convey a hidden message. This can be done using invisible ink or special writing techniques.

A method to determine the order in which inks were applied on a document. This is done by analyzing the inks under a microscope and examining how they interact and overlap.

The use of specialized techniques to link a printed document to a specific printer. Forensic scientists can analyze the pattern of ink dots, toner distribution, and other details to determine the origin of a printed document.

A form used by police to document when evidence is submitted to a forensic laboratory. It provides details about the crime, the evidence itself, and the people involved in the case.

A form used by forensic examiners to document their examination of evidence. It includes details about the evidence, the analysis conducted, and the findings of the examination.

A method of identification based on body measurements, particularly bone measurements. This system was introduced in 1883 by Alphonse Bertillon and was used to differentiate individuals based on physical characteristics.

Fingerprints that are accidentally left at a crime scene. This is usually done in an unconscious manner as people touch surfaces without realizing they are leaving their prints.

The study of handwriting to try to determine the writer’s personality, character, or other traits. It has limited scientific support and is not widely regarded as a valid forensic technique.

A technique that uses the analysis of yellow dot patterns left by color printers to trace the specific printer that produced a document.