If you have ever watched a TV show like CSI, you might know how a crime scene is investigated. In these shows, a crime scene investigator collects evidence and blood samples. But do these shows depict the exact process of forensic investigation?
The process of investigating a crime scene is long and arduous. It involves carefully documenting the complete condition of the location and collecting all possible physical evidence that could help in the perpetrator’s conviction. However, every crime scene is different, so an investigator must approach the stage accordingly. Investigators use numerous ways and procedures to perform a successful crime scene investigation. But whatever the scenario may be, there are certain steps that every crime scene investigator generally utilizes. Here are the basic steps a CSI employs to conduct a successful and efficient crime scene investigation. Depending on the scene’s condition and the nature of the crime, these steps can be undertaken in a different order, combined, or even skipped altogether.
1. Approach the Scene
The investigation begins when the CSI unit receives a call from the police officers or detectives, and they reach the scene. The main area of the disturbance, i.e., the focal point of the crime, is observed to make a mental note of what the CSI sees, hears, and smells. Currently, the investigating officer needs to draw a radius of the focal point in which all the relevant physical evidence may be present. At this point, the investigator gets hold of hazardous materials or weapons and identifies the potential areas of ingress and egress of the criminal.
2. Secure the Scene
Often, the first responders cause many disruptions at the scene, which can disturb potential physical evidence. To prevent this, ingress and egress to the area must be controlled immediately. For this purpose, the location is generally protected using yellow crime scene tape or rope and cones. After this, a common entrance is established to keep track of the people entering and exiting the stage, and all people who enter and leave the area are documented.
3. Conduct Preliminary Survey
Now, the CSI walks around the structure’s exterior to identify potential evidence. Factors like open windows, damaged doors, ladders, etc., are to be considered. These factors will help establish how the predator entered the structure or from where he left. After this, the investigator will visually survey the actual scene location and gather as much evidence as possible. The scene will be recorded with written notes, photographs, or even video graphs.
4. Consider Physical Evidence
After considering what happened at the scene, the investigating team will consider the evidence type. The exact point where the shooting occurred, the position of a gunshot on the victim’s body, traces of blood, signs of a struggle, and visible footprints- all need to be considered. Detailed scene documentation is prepared with digital and video cameras or a 3-D scanner. In addition to photographs and written notes, sketches and diagrams are sometimes created. All the collected pieces of evidence are then carefully packaged and preserved. It is necessary to use the right type of containers for carrying all evidence because some items can get contaminated during this process. Objects with blood stains or other physiological fluids should never be packed in plastic bags.
5. Perform a Final Survey and release the Crime Scene
Once all the potential evidence is carefully gathered, the investigating team must take a final walk around the scene to ensure no important clue or possible proof is left ignored. After this, the lead investigator or other authorized persons may release the crime scene. However, it’s crucial to ensure that every important piece of information is secured before regaining access because some evidence will no longer be available once released.
