Crime Scene
A crime scene stays undisturbed for a limited period. Therefore, it is vital to record the scene in its original state before it is altered. The crime scene should be recorded in various forms, such as videotapes, photographs, and sketches. Videos provide a better perspective on the layout of the crime scene, but pictures are more useful for direct comparisons. The crime scene should be thoroughly examined to obtain as much information as possible. Evidence search should be thorough and systematic to safeguard its admissibility in court. The entry and exit points, location of the crime, areas where the suspect tried to cover his tracks, and so forth should be identified at the earliest instance.
Various tools and resources are required to process a crime scene. Personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks are necessary. Other vital tools and resources include a camera with enough storage, notebook, pen, evidence tapes and bags, footwear casting materials, body fluid collection kits, and a flashlight. Physical evidence collected should be appropriately handled and packaged to prevent loss and maintain its integrity. The evidence can be packaged in a collection bag, envelope, collection container, or box depending on its nature. The package should be labeled with the necessary information for ease of identification. It should also be sealed with evidence tape or strip.
A proper chain of custody records the transfer of evidence from a detective to another person, location, or agency. It provides information on where evidence was first collected, a list of evidence, date and time of all evidence transfers, signatures of persons involved in transfers, and the reasons for transfers. A proper chain of custody should be maintained to preserve the integrity of the evidence. Biological evidence such as blood and body fluids is likely to be fhttps://essaygroom.com/portfolio/successful-policy-based-on-transfer/ound in a crime scene. Other types of evidence that may be collected include trace evidence such as fibers and soil, pattern evidence such as shoe prints and tire tracks, and print evidence like fingerprints or palm prints.
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