CRIME SCENE PROCESSING

Importance of Crime Scene Processing00:00:21

Crime scene processing is crucial for investigators to uncover physical evidence that helps identify what happened and who was involved. This process must be conducted carefully and thoroughly to ensure that crucial evidence is collected and fragile evidence is not destroyed.

Arrival of the First Responder00:01:01

The first responder checks the victim's condition, surveys the scene, takes notes, and is responsible for controlling the crime scene. They then inform the Scene of the Crime Operation (SOCO) team for further investigation.

Arrival and Roles of the SOCO Team00:01:27

The SOCO team, a forensic evidence response team, is the only group allowed to enter the crime scene to prevent destruction or contamination of evidence. The team consists of a team leader, photographer, sketcher/recorder, evidence collector, evidence custodian, medical officer, and fingerprint examiner.

Initial Actions of the SOCO Team00:02:04

The team leader coordinates with the first responder, records vital information like arrival time and weather conditions, and conducts a walkthrough. The team then cordons off the area to protect the scene and establishes a command post. The photographer takes general views of the scene before any search begins.

Crime Scene Search and Documentation00:03:21

The team uses a strip search method, moving slowly and methodically, placing markings beside found evidence. The photographer documents each piece of evidence with general, mid-range, and close-up views. The sketcher measures the location of evidence from non-movable objects using methods like triangulation and creates a rough sketch.

Collection of Evidence00:05:04

The evidence collector carefully collects physical evidence, such as firearms (ensuring they are unloaded), blood samples (swabbed with cotton buds), and bullets. Each piece of evidence is placed in a sealed, labeled container, tagged with initials, date, and time of discovery. The fingerprint examiner collects the victim's fingerprints, following specific procedures for rolling impressions.

Turnover and Release of the Crime Scene00:06:38

The evidence collector turns over items to the evidence custodian, signing a turnover receipt to maintain the chain of custody. The SOCO team conducts a final search to ensure thoroughness before officially releasing the crime scene to the owner or vicinity.