Commonwealth of Australia Copyright Act Notice for paragraph 135ZXA (a) of the Copyright Act 1968

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1 Copyright Notice: Commonwealth of Australia Copyright Act 1968 Notice for paragraph 135ZXA (a) of the Copyright Act 1968 Warning This material has been reproduced and communicated to you by or on behalf of Charles Sturt University under Part VB of the Copyright Act 1968 (the Act). The material in this communication may be subject to copyright under the Act. Any further reproduction or communication of this material by you may be the subject of copyright protection under the Act. Do not remove this notice. Reading Description: Ogle, R. R. (2004). Crime scene search principles. n Crime scene investigation and reconstruction : with guidelines for crime scene search and physical evidence collection (pp ). Upper Saddle River, NJ : Pearson Education. Reading Description Disclaimer: (This reference information is provided as a guide only, and may not conform to the required referencing standards for your subject)

2 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES KEYWORDS: Safety, first officer, hypothesis, pathway, perimeter, initial survey, fragile evidence, scene data, notes, photographs, layout sketches, detailed sketches, blowup sketches, strip method, grid (double strip) method, zone method, spiral method, separate areas, debriefing. FRST RESPONDER(S) A TTHE SCENE SAFETY The safety and physical well-being of officers and other individuals, in and around the crime scene, are the initial responding officer(s) first priority? The initial responding officer(s) should scan the area for sights, sounds, and smells that may present danger to personnel (e.g., hazardous materials such as gasoline, natural gas). f the scene involves a clandestine drug laboratory, biological weapons, or radiological or chemical threats, the appropriate agency should be contacted prior to entering the scene. The officer(s) should approach the scene in a manner designed to reduce risk of harm to officer(s) while maximizing the safety of victims, witnesses, and others in the area. The officer(s) should survey the scene for dangerous persons and should control the situation, notify supervisory personnel, and call for backup when needed. 8 EMERGENCY CARE After controlling any dangerous situations or persons, the initial responding officer(s)' next responsibility is to ensure that medical attention is provided to injured persons while minimizing contamination to the scene. nitial responding officer(s) should take the following actions:9 o Assess the victim(s) for signs of life and medical needs, and provide immediate medical attention. o Call for medical personnel. 16

3 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES 17 Guide medical personnel to the victim to minimize contamination/alteration of the crime scene. Point out potential physical evidence to medical personnel, instruct them to minimize contact with such evidence (e.g., ensure that medical personnel preserve all clothing and personal effects without cutting through bullet holes, knife cuts), and document movement of persons or items by medical personnel nstruct medical personnel not to "clean up" the scene and to avoid removal or alteration of items originating from the scene. f medical personnel arrived first, obtain the names, unit, and telephone number of attending personnel, and the name and location of the medical facility where the victim is to be taken. f there is a chance that the victim may die, attempt to obtain a "dying declaration."» Document any statements/comments made by victims, suspects, or witnesses at the scene. APPROACHNG THE SCENE The actions taken by the first officer(s) at the scene may have a profound impact on the quality of the crime scene investigation. The first officer(s) should promptly but cautiously approach and enter the scene, remaining observant of any persons, vehicles, events, potential evidence, and environmental conditions. 10 After taking any emergency actions necessary, such as securing medical attention for any injured parties or the arrest or detention of any suspect(s), the first officer should secure the scene as soon as feasible. The limits of the scene should be determined and a perimeter established with crime scene control tape. Once the perimeter is secured, it must remain secured until completion of the crime scene search and documentation. A permanent record of all individuals present at the scene and those who enter the scene should be started and maintained until completion of the crime scene search (many departments have a crime scene log form for this purpose). The crime scene log is important to establish the integrity of the scene and to provide follow-up investigators with the names of those individuals who may be responsible for certain items at the scene, such as latent fingerprints or footwear impressions. The log should be signed or initialed by each person who enters the scene. f t is important that any suspects be kept out of the scene in order to avoid contamination of the scene by any transfer evidence from the suspect(s), such as latent fingerprints, footwear impressions, hairs and fibers, and so forth, which may be used to link the suspect to the scene. f any suspect is allowed into the scene, any evidence linking the suspect to the scene then has an "innocent placement" explanation by the suspect. Once the scene is secured, the first officer should tour the crime scene, making notes as to the conditions of the scene. Particular attention should be made of any suspected points of entry or exit by the suspect(s), conditions of doorways and windows, and the presence of any evidence that needs to be brought to the attention of the investigators. An attempt should be made to determine the circumstances of the crime, keeping in mind that this attempt is a working theory (hypothesis) only, which can be revised as new facts come to light. The officer needs to establish a pathway for those individuals entering and leaving the scene, such as emergency medical personnel, other

4 18 CRME SCENE NVESTGATON AND RECONSTRUCTON officers, detectives, and the crime scene investigators. The pathway will help minimize the possibility of evidence destruction and will also establish an orderly crime scene search. The pathway should be documented in the officer's notes and sketches in order to provide a permanent record for follow-up investigators. The officer should continue to keep notes as to the progress of the investigation until relieved by other personnel in order to minimize - any loss of details. The first responder should be prepared to answer the following questions when the investigators arrive: ( 1) What happened? (2) What physical area does the crime scene cover? (3) Who was involved? (4) What time did the incident take place? (5) Who has entered the scene? (6) What items in the scene have been disturbed? (7) f anything has been removed, where is it now and who has custody? (8) f the victim has been removed, where is the victim? Anticipating these questions will help the investigators in their task of investigating the incident. The first responder should assume that all actions taken at the scene prior to the arrival of the investigative team will need to be explained in court. For this reason, the documentation of the officer's actions is very important to the outcome of me investigation. Most investigations begin at the crime scene, and the initial actions taken may have a profound effect on the case. There is no substitute for precise documentation, with adequate notes of the crime scene actions; diagrams; and crime scene data forms completed accurately and thoroughly. ACTONS TO BE TAKEN BY THE FRST RESPONDER(S) Determine the need for life-saving procedures and emergency personnel The first priority at any crime scene is the treatment of any injured party and the summoning of emergency medical personnel. t is important to keep in mind the potential loss of evidence through the actions of medical personnel at the scene. Whenever feasible, the first responders should establish an indirect pathway for the medical personnel to approach the victim needing emergency treatment and transport to a medical facility. The few moments taken to use this indirect route to reach the victim and remove him/her to the ambulance may save valuable evidence without any danger to the treatment of the victim. The pathway established for the medical personnel should also be used by the first responders and the follow-up investigators for the initial surveys of the scene. This procedure will avoid any further damage to the evidence present at the scene. t is particularly helpful to avoid common pathways for travel inside a residence or to avoid the direct route from the roadway to the site of the victim in an outdoor setting, as these pathways are the usual routes taken by the perpetrator of the crime (see Figure 2-1 ). Remove and detain witnesses and suspects from the scene Witnesses and potential suspects should be removed. from the scene as soon as practical. n no case should a potential suspect be admitted to the crime scene, as this action allows for cross-contamination between the scene and. the suspect with respect to impression and trace evidence, thus providing an "innocent" explanation for the presence of these types of evidence at the

5 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES 19 ndirect path to victim Area of potential evidence items - FGURE 2-1 ndirect Pathway to Victim beside a Roadway Roadway edge scene. Appropriate data should be obtained from each witness for follow-up contacts by investigators assigned to the case. Secure the scene and establish the crime scene perimeter Once the emergency actions have been taken and the witnesses and suspect(s) have been identified and removed, the scene should be secured in order to preserve the evidence present. t is necessary to determine the limits of the crime scene and to establish the perimeter with crime scene tape. For indoor crime scenes, the residence or building will ordinarily define the scene limits, but in some cases the property on which the structure is located is also part of the crime scene. n outdoor crime scenes, the first responders need to exercise good judgement as to the extent of the scene, keeping in mind it is better to err on the side of caution and to provide a safety margin in establishing the secure perimeter of the scene. The scene should be secured with crime scene tape or other markers. t is important to ensure that only those personnel with legitimate business at the crime scene be allowed inside the perimeter established. Compile scene data As soon as the scene is secured, the first responder should begin compiling the necessary data with regard to response to the scene and initiate the crime scene log that lists the entry of all individuals into the crime scene, including those present upon arrival. Most departments will have forms for these tasks. See the list of pertinent data under the heading for the crime scene investigators. Make an initial survey of the crime scene The initial survey of the scene should be done in a systematic manner, taking notes of observations as to possible evidence present, any evidence that has been removed, the person responsible for this evidence, and observations regarding the pertinent data listed in a later section. t is imperative that nothing be disturbed at the scene until the scene has been photographed

6 20 CRME SCENE NVESTGATON AND RECONSTRUCTON and sketched in the condition found. Do not attempt to replace evidence that has been moved, disturbed, or collected prior to the crime scene documentation, but rather take notes as to how and why the evidence has been disturbed. The initial survey of the scene should be issue-oriented and include an assessment of the potential evidence present at the scene based on the working theory for the Ws of any investigation: What happened? Who did it? Why? Where did the events take place? What was the sequence of events? Where were the points of entry and exit? These questions and the working theory should help to provide a basis for determining the presence of potential evidence. t is important to keep an open mind with regard to the working theory, making adjustments as new facts come to light. Take steps to preserve any fragile evidence at the s ene Fragile evidence includes that evidence that may be destroyed by inclement weather. tems such as footwear impressions that may be exposed to rain should be covered with a cardboard box or other protective covering to avoid loss of the evidence. < CRME SCENE NVESTGA TOR(S) CHOCE OF CRME SCENE NVESTGATOR The crime scene investigator may be the patrol officer assigned to the detail, a crime scene investigator from the crime scene unit, or the detective assigned to the case. The choice as to the personnel assigned to process the crime scene is usually based on the type of crime committed, department guidelines for the level of response for these crimes, the size of the agency, and' the size of the crime scene to be processed. n major crimes, the crime scene( s) will usually be processed by a team of investigators. Regardless of the number or classification of the crime scene personnel, it is essential that the crime scene(s) be processed in an orderly, systematic manner. t is important to have clearly established departmental orders as to who is in charge of the crime scene, what the responsibilities are of the various personnel involved, what procedures are to be implemented, and, of most importance, who is permitted access to the scene. RECORD PERTNENT DATA MMEDATELY Most departments will have departmental forms for recording scene data that must be filled out at the crime scene detailing the information listed in the following sections. The advantages of having forms for the information needed include not having to write in all the necessary headings, having a standardized format for data retrieval, having a convenient memory assist for needed details, and having a format for the orderly accumulation of crime scene information. Record time called to scene and individual making the call The time of the call to the scene should be accurate, since alibis are based on time and place. Although most departments will have a log of call-outs, it is a good practice to document the time in your notes. The individual making the call should also be included for thoroughness in the notes.

7 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES 21 Record time arrived at scene t is important to have an accurate time for arrival at the scene for first responders and the crime scene investigative team members as the first step in the accurate documentation of the scene. Record actions taken to secure the crime scene. f this has hot been done, secure the scene immediately! The first responders to the scene should have secured the scene prior to your arrival. f this procedure has not been done, then the scene should be secured immediately and the perimeter delineated with crime scene tape. f the entire crime scene is inside a dwelling, the scene can be secured by keeping the door closed and having an officer maintain security at the door. f the extent of the crime scene at the dwelling is not known, the entire plot for the dwelling should be secured with crime scene tape. Record persons at scene/were present on arrival/left scene prior to arrival/arrived after your arrival (persons/times) This record should be in addition to the log started by the first responders, so that a complete record of all individuals entering the crime scene is established. The first responders will often need to respond to another detail before the crime scene processing is completed, and the crime scene investigator's entry log will supplement the log started by the first responders, thus providing a complete record from start to finish at the crime scene. Record all case file data for all departments involved Record the department(s) involved, the case file number(s), and the contact person from each department involved in this case. t is important to have the telephone numbers and usual working hours for each individual for follow-up investigations. Record names of all victim(s) and suspect(s) known at the time Enter the names of the victim(s) and suspect(s) in the department crime scene forms or your notes, if this information is known at the time. f not, make a notation that the names are not known at the time of response to the scene. CONTACT THE FRST OFFCER AT THE SCENE Obtain overview of circumstances known and observations made by the responding officer The first responders to the scene will have information about the conditions at the scene prior to any alterations and information about the incident known at that time. Determine areas that can be crossed without destroying potential evidence f a pathway for entering and surveying the scene has not been established, it should be established at this point. Obtain information from the first officer as to what areas have been entered and by whom, so that

8 22 CRME SCENE NVESTGATON AND RECONSTRUCTON elimination samples can be obtained from these individuals should the need arise. Tour the scene with the first responder Tour the scene with the first responder, making sure to follow any established pathway. Record all pertinent observations during the tour with the first responder, comparing notes with the officer as to the observations made with regard to the types of physical evidence that may be present. Any alterations to the condition of the scene prior to the arrival of the investigating team should be noted. Note especially any evidence that has been collected by the first officers at the scene. Make notations as to which items were collected and by whom, whether or not the chain of custody was initiated, and. who will be responsible for booking the evidence into the evidence room. ESTABLSH A COMMAND CENTER FOR THE OPERATON The command center may be as simple as an area set aside at the scene for the placement of the equipment necessary to process the scene in the case of a small scene, or it may be a complex command post in the case of a large and complex scene. ESTABLSH A PLAN FOR PROCESSNG THE SCENE V Confer with all individuals assisting in the search. Advise everyone that all evidence is to be collected only by the team members responsible for evidence collection. Those individuals assisting in the search should not move or disturb any evidence item before it has been documented with notes, sketches, and photographs, and processed for latent fingerprints if applicable. Establish the plan for processing the scene, making sure that each team member is certain of her/his role in the search and the way that the search is to proceed. This step is crucial for those crimes that have a number of areas to be covered by separate teams or individuals. The crime scene processing plan should also include consideration of the safety of the search team. For those scenes where hazardous materials are encountered, individuals with the proper training, experience, and equipment should be in charge of processing that scene. Take note of the safety precautions at the end of the chapters on latent fingerprints (Chapter Five) and homicide scenes (Chapter Sixteen). Clandestine laboratory crime scenes present exceptional hazards and should be processed only by specialized personnel with hazardous material training and equipment. DATA TO BE COMPLED BEFORE COLLECTON PROCESS The following data may be entered on the appropriate form or, if no departmental forms exist, the data should be entered in the notes of the crime scene investigator. Presence of unusual odors The presence of unusual odors may be short-lived. The odor of accelerants should be noted in the case of suspected arson.

9 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES 23 Presence and condition of bloodstains The condition of any bloodstains should be noted, especially if the bloodstains constitute "spatter" patterns. Note also large pools of blood and the signs of blood-clotting. Si ns of struggle Note any furniture out of place or knocked over. Do not move the displaced items until the scene has been thoroughly documented. Note any smearing of bloodstains that may indicate a struggle after wounds have been inflicted. Point(s) of entry and exit The points of entry and/or exit may have evidence that will help identify the perpetrator, including latent fingerprints, trace evidence such as hairs and fibers, footwear impressions, and toolmarks in the case of forced entry. Condition of windows and doors (locked, unlocked, open, closed) Occasionally, it is necessary to open or close doors and windows during the scene investigation. t is important to note the condition of the doors and windows, so that any changes effected at the scene are documented. Condition of trash containers (especially layer sequence) The layer sequence of trash containers may help in reconstructing time sequences of events at the scene. The layer sequence and any dated materials should be noted. Condition and contents of ashtrays Note the presence and brimd(s) of cigarettes in ashtrays. Remember that DNA typing may need to be attempted on the cigarette butts in the ashtrays, so that handling should be done with gloved hands or forceps. Evidence of drinking and/or drug use Note the presence of liquor bottles and glassware and the approximate contents of each. The bottles and glassware offer excellent surfaces for latent prints and should be handled accordingly. Drug outfits may also be processed for latent impressions, with precautions taken for infectious agents. Evidence disturbed or' collected prior to arrival, and person(s) who are responsible for this evidence Any evidence disturbed or collected prior to the arrival of the crime scene investigator should be noted. Determine who collected the evidence and that the chain of possession has been documented. Condition of light switches n your notes, document the condition of the light switches. t may be necessary to turn the switches on or off during photography, especially for photographs during forensic light examinations or photographs of luminaltreated bloodstains.

10 24 CRME SCENE NVESTlGA TlON AND RECONSTRUCTON CRME SCENE SEARCH: BE SYSTEMATC! A crime scene search is defined as a systematic, methodical search for any physical evidence at a crime scene. A systematic approach to the documentation of the scene and the collection of the physical evidence present is essential in order to ensure that all necessary steps have been taken which will realize the potential of the physical evidence and that the evidence is admissible in a court of law. A systematic approach to crime scene processing also has the advantage of providing the most efficient and effective use of the investigative team's time and resources, while at the same time providing the optimum benefit of the physical evidence present at the scene. The sequence of actions that follows is recommended at the scene. Adequate notes of actions taken at the scene Adequate notes should be taken during the entire crime scene search to reflect all actions taken at the scene, and the notes should include notations regarding (a) listing of photographs taken, (b) listing of evidence collected, (c) any sketches prepared, and (d) observations made during the processing of the scene. Photography of the scene: before the scene is disturbed (see Chapter Three) General (overview) photographs to illustrate the condition of the scene. Photographs should be taken to document the condition of the scene as found, before processing and collection of evidence begins. Photographs from the point of view of all witnesses. Photographs from the point of view of eyewitnesses should be taken in order to document whether or not the witness or witnesses were in a position to see the area and objects recorded in the witness statements. Record both the vertical and the horizontal position of the camera in the notes and the sketches. These photographs will assist the investigators in determining the accuracy of witness statements. Midrange photographs. Midrange photographs should be taken to illustrate spatial relationships of all evidence items and their relationship to the overall scene. Photographs of the evidence items. Specific photographs of each evidence item should be taken to illustrate the location and the condition of all items of evidence (include item number markers and/or rulers as needed). The position and condition of evidence items may be important in reconstructing the crime scene. Photographs of each evidence item, combined with adequate notes and sketches, will allow for accurate re-creation of the scene for reconstruction efforts. The use of measurement rulers is essential for those items for which spatial characteristics are important in a reconstruction (for example, bloodstain patterns and bullet impacts). Sketches of the scene to document any evidence present (see Chapter Four) Layout sketches. The layout sketches illustrate the relationship of the various crime scene areas to each other and assist in orienting the reader of reports to the nature of the crime scene and its component parts. The layout sketches are not necessarily measured, as the purpose of these sketches is to provide a visual framework for the detailed, measured sketches and the photographs taken.

11 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES 25 Detailed sketches of pertin e nt areas. Detailed sketches with measurements of pertinent areas should be prepared, showing all measurements for the area and the exact location of evidence items. nclude large items such as furniture to show spatial relationships. Large-scale ("blowup") sketches (see Figure 4-4 in Chapter Four). Prepare large-scale sketches of those areas needing greater detail: Bloodstain patterns. Prepare sketches of each area having bloodstain patterns. Complement the sketches with photographs showing each area sketched. t is helpful to use the "grid," "corner label," or "perimeter scale" method (see the section titled "Bloodstain Pattern Documentation" in Chapter Seventeen) for these methods. Bullet entry and exit holes. Measure carefully the location of each bullet hole, and describe its appearance. Photograph each hole (both entry and exit sites) with a measurement scale next to the hole (see Chapter Seventeen for documentation of bullet trajectories). Location and orientation of impression evidence. Sketch the location of footwear impressions and tool mark impressions, showing their orientation and directional characteristics. Areas having a large number of small evidence items. Prepare a large-scale sketch of each area having a large number of small evidence items, such as expended casings. t is helpful to use the secondary reference points method (see Figure 4-12, Chapter Four) for the measurements. Crime scene search Use of systematic search methods. Strip method for outdoor scenes (see Figure 2-2). Grid (double strip) method for outdoor scenes (see Figure 2-3). Zone method f o r indoor or outdoor scenes (see Figure 2-4). Spiral method for large objects in large outdoor scenes (see Figure 2-5) Recording of evidence. Make sure that each item is photographed and located on the sketch(s) before collection. t is strongly recommended that at least two individuals locate and mark each item, so that either can testify as to the documentation and collection of the e v idence in a court proceeding in the event that one of the individuals is unavailable for testimony A ,.., c r FGURE 2-2 Strip Search Method

12 26 CRME SCENE NVESTGATON AND RECONSTRUCTlON..,.,......, ,.,.., :: J _ ,......, A_.. -r r- - - l i..j r s , -..,.. -r ,.... r t t t _..._ - '... ) t t ,, _, FGURE 2-3 Method Grid Search Process for fingerprints at the time the item is collected whenever possible (CAUTON! Make certain that fingerprint processing does not destroy trace evidence.) f latent print processing of the item is not done at the scene, package carefully, and label "FOR TRACE EVDENCE/LATENT FNGER PRNT PROCESSNG" in large letters. Mark and record each item on the evidence list at the time of its collection. This procedure will avoid any mix-up of evidence item numbering. Check item numbering to ensure that the item numbers correspond to the numbering system used on the sketches. Package each item of evidence securely, so that any trace evidence present is not disturbed, lost, or contaminated. Make sure that evidence items containing biological stains are dried thoroughly before packaging in paper bags or envelopes (see Chapter Nine for drying and packaging instructions). A B c _,_ ! i Each zone can be subdivided t t into a number of smaller zones _... _, FGURE 2-4 Method Zone Search

13 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES 27 FGURE 2-5 Method Spiral Search SEPARATE AREAS/COLLECTORS Separate areas and/or collectors can be coded with letters or Roman numerals to avoid confusion when the inventory list is completed. This procedure will be exceptionally helpful in large-scale areas or investigations, where there are a number of scenes and individuals involved in the search and collection of physical evidence. The coding system should be developed during the planning of the search, before the actual search and collection begins. Example: A large-scale search involving three separate areas and three search teams can be coded as Areas A, B, and C. Each area should have one individual assigned as the evidence collection officer for each area. Each evidence item would then be coded with the letter prefix corresponding to the particular area (tem A-1, A-2, A-3; B-1, B-2; C-l, C-2; etc.) For very-large-scale searches (multiple burial sites in a serial murder case, for example), it may be necessary to subdivide further the evidence-collection responsibilities. n this case, coding can be done by following an outline form, designating the larger areas with Roman numerals and designating the subsections of each larger area with capital letters. Each evidence item collected would then have a Roman numeral designating the major subdivision, a capital letter for the smaller subdivision, and a number designating the item number from. that site (-A-1, -A-2; -B-1, -B-2; -A-1, -A-2; etc.). The preplanned evidence numbering system will give the evidence list compilations coherence for the investigators and prosecutors. SYSTEMATC SEARCH METHODS There are several different methods used to search a crime scene systematically. The advantage of using these methods is the thoroughness with which the crime scene is searched. The choice of method depends on the size and number of scenes, the type of crime scene to be searched, and the number of personnel available for the search. The principal methods used include the

14 28 CRME SCENE NVESTGATON AND RECONSTRUCTON Strip method (see Figure 2-2), the Grid method (see Figure 2-3), the Zone method (see Figure 2-4), and the Spiral method (see Figure 2-5). Additionally, there is the "wheel," or "radius," method whereby the investigator follows a straight line from the center of the scene to the perimeter, returns to the center, then follows another line of radius, continuing until the circle is covered. Since this last method is very time-consuming and may lead to missing a portion of the "pie" during the search, it is therefore not recommended. See Chapter Fourteen (Vehicle nvestigations) for the search of a vehicle where the vehicle is a crime "scene." STRP METHOD The strip method (see Figure 2-2) involves setting up lanes or strips, each strip to be searched by one searcher. The lanes should be as narrow as feasible, so that each searcher can scan the lane thoroughly from side to side without missing any item of evidence. This technique is especially good for outdoor scenes, particularly when the area to be searched is large and involves a team of searchers. The search lanes should not be wider than the area that can be easily seen by each individual searcher. A lane width of approximately arm's length on either side of each search member should be the maximum width for the lanes. The lanes need to be marked to avoid missing any portion of the scene. This task can be accomplished by driving stakes at each end of the lanes and tying heavy twine to the stakes in order to delineate each lane. When the end of each lane is reached, the stakes and their lines are moved parallel fashioh - to maintain continuity of the lanes across the area to be searched. The strip search is particularly suited for outdoor scenes where the search party is looking for items that are relatively small, such as ejected cartridge cases. This method is equally good for those items that are intermediate in size, such as handguns, footwear impressions, or items discarded by a suspect while fleeing the scene. The strip method can also be used for indoor scenes where the areas to be covered have relatively large floor spaces, such as those found in a sizable warehouse. ndoor areas found in residences or small buildings are usually more easily searched by using the zone method. GRD METHOD The grid method, sometimes called the double-strip method (see Figure 2-3), requires a first search as in the strip method. A second search is completed by orienting the lanes at right angles to the first lanes searched. Use the stakesand-twine method for establishing the lanes to be searched, using the same guidelines for lane width as in the strip method. The advantage of the grid method over the other methods is the thoroughness of the search that it provides. Each area of the grid is effectively searched twice, thus reducing considerably the chance that an evidence item will be missed in the search. For evidence items that are very difficult to find, such as expended cartridge cases in tall grass, the search team may have to conduct the search on their hands and knees in order to ensure that no items are missed during the search. Although tedious and timeconsuming, this technique will ensure that no items have been missed by the search team.

15 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES 29 ZONE METHOD The zone method (see Figure 2-4) consists of dividing the scene into "zones" to be searched. This method is sometimes referred to as a "sector" method or a "cupboard" method. Each zone can then be subdivided into smaller and smaller zones as circumstances require. For example, large indoor scenes or outdoor scenes can be divided into large zones for search by separate teams. Each zone can then be subdivided by its search team in order to increase the efficiency of the overall search. This method is also the one of choice for recording the location and shapes of bloodstain patterns, firearm projectile trajectories, or other types of evidence where the interrelationship of each of the components of the area is a paramount concern. SPRAL METHOD n the spiral search method (see Figure 2-5), the search team starts at the designated center of the scene and follows a spiral path outward from the center until the perimeter of the scene is reached (not recommended for indoor scenes or smaller outdoor scenes, as the zone method and strip methods are much more efficient for these areas). The spiral method may be used effectively for searching a large outdoor scene where the search team is looking for very large objects that are easy to see (dumped bodies, for example). The size of the lanes should be kept to a minimum. FNSHNG THE CRME SCENE SEARCH: DEBREFNG At the conclusion of a crime scene search, a crime scene debriefing team should be assembled prior to releasing the scene. The debriefing team should include the investigalor(s) in charge of the crime scene, other investigators and evidence collection personnel (e.g., photographers, evidence technicians, latent print personnel, specialized personnel, and initial responding officer(s), if still present). The debriefing allows the members to share information regarding particular scene findings and provides an opportunity for input regarding follow-up investigation, special requests for assistance, and the establishment ofpostscene responsibilities.11 The debriefing team should address the topics and questions that follow. Have all areas been documented and searched? Have witness statements developed information that indicates that further searches are necessaty-additional areas, other evidence? Have all parties completed their assignments? s all evidence collected, properly packaged, and accounted for? Has a re-search of the scene(s) been made? Carefully go over the scene(s) again, looking for any evidence items missed. Note: A scene searched at night almo-st always should be re-searched when the sun comes up. Should the scene remain preserved/secured? Often, information gained at a homicide autopsy or medical examination in a sexual assault case will indicate additional actions necessary at the crime scene. The scene should ordinarily be secured unti completion of an autopsy or medical examination. Remember, if the scene is left unprotected,

16 30 CRME SCENE NVESTGATON AND RECONSTRUCTON it will never be the same again, and any additional search may require an additional search warrant. nitiate any action(s) identified in the debriefing required to complete the crime scene investigation. Discuss potential forensic testing and the sequence of tests to be performed. Brief the person(s) in charge upon completion of assigned crime scene tasks. Establish postscene responsibilities for lawenforcementpersonnel and other responders. Perform final survey of the crime scene. FNAL SURVEY OF THE CRME SCENE After the crime scene debriefing has been held and before the scene is released to the appropriate individual or agency, a final survey of the scene should be conducted. This survey ensures that pertinent evidence has been collected, that evidence, equipment, or materials generated by the investigation are not inadvertently left behind, and that any dangerous materials or conditions have been reported and addressed. The investigator(s) in charge should conduct a walk-through and ensure that each area identified as part of the crime scene is visually inspected. At the conclusion of the debriefing and final walk-through, the investigator releases the scene in accordance with jurisdictional requirements. SUMMARY There are a number of methods available for conducting a crime scene search. The particular circumstances of the scene may dictate which of the methods is chosen to conduct the search. The crime scene investigator will rapidly gain insight into which type of search method needs to be employed at a crime scene. The nature of the crime scene and other factors such as weather or traffic may influence the method of choice. However, it is essential to ensure that the scene is searched thoroughly with a systematic method to maximize the information gained from the scene search and to minimize the chance that evidence will be overlooked or compromised because of an inadequate search. Regardless of the method chosen by the crime scene investigator, it is crucial that the search is conducted in a systematic manner and that the search covers all areas that may contain potential evidence in the investigation. t is far better to cover too much area than not enough, because a single item of evidence may be the crucial piece of the puzzle that may be lost forever if not located and collected during the initial search. At the conclusion of the crime scene processing, the investigator(s) in charge should institute a debriefing team to ensure that all necessary procedures have been carried out by the crime scene team. REVEW QUESTONS. The first officer at the scene should establish a for medical personnel and investigating officers to follow. 2. The first officer should and witnesses and suspects from the scene. 3. The scene should be until the crime scene processing has been completed. 4 The should be conducted to determine possible evidence present at the scene.

17 CRME SCENE SEARCH PRNCPLES - 5. The first officer should take steps to preserve any evidence at the scene. 6. The first officer should establish an. log of which individuals were present at the scene or who left before the officer's arrival 7. The initial survey of the crime scene should be done in a manner, taking of observations at the scene. 8. The crime scene investigator should contact the first officer at the scene to obtain an of the scene. 9. The investigator should determine which areas can be crossed without 11. The investigator should establish a for processing the scene. 12. As a general rule, should be the first step in documenting the crime scene. 13. Three systematic search methods are the,, and methods. 14. When finishing the crime scene search, the investigator should have a with the participants to determine that all areas have been searched and documented. 15,. The strip search method involves setting up to be searched by the participants. 10. The investigator should the scene with the first officer. FURTHER REFERENCES Crime Scene nvestigation: A Guide for Law Enforcement. U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Government Printing Office, (Text available at Osterburg, James W. and Richard H. Ward. Criminal nvestigation (3rd ed. ). Anderson Publishing: Cincinnati, Rynearson, Joseph. Evidence and Crime Scene Reconstruction (5th ed.). National Crime nvestigation and Training (NCT): Redding, CA, Appendix 2-A CRME SCENE PROCESSNG GUDELNES ACTONS TO BE TAKEN BY THE FRST RESPONDER(S) Determine the need for life-saving procedures arid emergency personnel Remove and detain witnesses and suspects from the scene. Secure the scene, and establish the crime scene perimeter. Compile scene data. Make an initial survey of the crime scene. Establish pathway for subsequent personnel Take notes regarding observations at the scene. Take steps to preserve any fragile evidence at the scene. ACTONS TO BE TAKEN BY CRME SCENE NVESTGATOR(S) Record pertinent data immediately. Record the time called to scene and by whom called. Record the time arrived at scene. List the actions taken to secure the crime scene. f this step has not been done, secure the scene immediately! Record persons at scene/were present on arrival/left scene prior to arrival/arrived after your arrival (persons/times). Record all case file data for all departments involved. Record names of all victim(s) and suspect(s) known at the time. Contact the first officer at the scene. Obtain overview of cin;umstances known and observations made by the responding officer. Determine areas that can be crossed without destroying potential evidence. Establish a command center for the operation. Establish a plan for processing the scene. Record data to be compiled before collection process. Unusual odors present. Presence and condition of bloodstains. Signs of struggle. Point(s) of entry and exit. Condition of windows and doors (locked, unlocked, open, closed). Condition of trash containers (especially layer sequence).

18 32 CRME SCENE NVESTGATON AND RECONSTRUCTON Condition and contents of ashtrays. Evidence of drinking and/or drug use. Evidence disturbed or collected prior to arrival, and person(s) who are responsible for this evidence. Condition of light switches. CRME SCENE SEARCH Prepare adequate notes of actions taken at the scene. Take photographs of the scene: before the scene is disturbed Overview (layout) photographs. General photographs to illustrate the condition of the scene. Photographs from the point of view of all witnesses. Midrange photographs to illustrate location of all pertinent objects and evidence items. Photographs of the evidence items. Make sketches of the scene to document any evidence present. Layout (overview) sketches. Detailed sketches of pertinent areas. Large-scale ("blowup") sketches.. Bloodstain patterns. 2. Bullet entry and exit holes. 3. Location and orientation of impression evidence. 4. Areas having a large number of small evidence items. Search scene with systematic method. Strip method for outdoor scenes. Grid (double-strip) method for outdoor scenes. Zone method for indoor or outdoor scenes. Spiral method for large objects in large outdoor scenes. Prepare record of evidence. Make sure that each item is photographed and located on the sketch(s) before collection. Process for fingerprints at the time the item is collected whenever feasible. Mark and record each item on the evidence list at the time of its collection. Package each item of evidence securely, so that any trace evidence present is not disturbed, lost, or contaminated. «Make sure that evidence items containing biological stains are dried thoroughly before packaging in paper bags or envelopes. Estab ish separate areas/ co Hectors. Code each separate area with Roman numeral or \ letter. Assign a team or an individual to process each separate area; ensure that all evidence items collected are coded with scene code in item number. FNSHNG THE CRME SCENE SEARCH: DEBREFNG Have all areas been documented and searched? Have witness statements developed information that indicates further search is necessary-additional areas, other evidence? Have all parties completed their assignments? s all evidence collected, properly packaged, and accounted for? s a re-search of the scene(s) needed? Should the scene remain preserved/secured? nitiate any action(s) identified in the debriefing required to complete the crime scene investigation. Discuss potential forensic testing and the sequence of tests to be performed. Brief person( s) in charge upon completion of assigned crime scene tasks. Establish postscene responsibilities for law enforcement personnel and other responders. Perform final survey of the crime scene. Appendix 2-B CUSTOMZED CRME SCENE SEARCH KTS LEVEL OF CRME SCENE SEARCH KT NEEDED The level of sophistication in the crime scene kit ranges from a simple kit in a toolbox or a fishing tackle box tailored to an individual officer's needs up to a large van containing an extensive array of equipment used as a mobile crime scene processing unit and laboratory. n this appendix, four levels of crime scene kits are described: ( l) a personal kit for the individual officer;12 (2). a kit for first responders (usually the patrol officer assigned to the beat), which is kept in the patrol vehicle from shift to shift or in the sergeant's vehicle; (3) a kit for the crime scene investigator or evidence technician; and ( 4) specialty kits for the collection of specific types of evidence. 13