CSI-PI Job Descriptions

Transcription

1 CSI-PI Job Descriptions Pre-Visit Lesson Grade Level: 8-10 Teaching Methods: Analyzing, Discussion, Reading, Writing Time: Preparation Time: 30 minutes Activity Time: 1.5 hours Materials: Crime Scene Scenario handout Crime Scene Investigation and Personnel Involved chart Crime Scene Investigation Steps handout Job Description handouts How To Collect Evidence handout Summary: Students prepare to become part of a Crime Scene Investigation Team, discover the details of a crime scene investigation, and the different jobs involved. Objectives: Students will read and discuss the Crime Scene Scenario. Students will define the steps in a crime scene investigation. Students will describe the job that they will perform at the crime scene at Presque Isle State Park. Students will determine how to collect evidence at a crime scene. PA Environment & Ecology Standards: Humans and the Environment C. Analyze how human activities may cause changes in an ecosystem. PA Science & Technology Standards: Unifying Themes B. Describe concepts of models as a way to predict and understand science and technology. Other PA Standards: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening Background: Presque Isle State Park s Flora Presque Isle State Park is home to over 600 species of plants. The unique ecosystems in the park help to maintain populations of plants that are not found other places in Pennsylvania. Of these 600 plant species, 38 are endangered in Pennsylvania, 18 are threatened, 13 are rare, and 7 are tentatively undetermined. According to the Pennsylvania State Park s Rules and Regulations, Regulation Natural Resources states cutting, picking, digging, damaging, or removing, in whole or in part, a living or dead tree, shrub, or plant is prohibited. These rules and regulations are enforced under law by Park Rangers and people caught breaking these laws are subject to prosecution. In addition to state park regulations, Pennsylvania endangered plants are protected by state laws as well. The Wild Resource Conservation Act, PA Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 1

2 Act 170 was created to protect endangered plants and animals. Federally endangered species are protected by the Endangered Species Act. Unfortunately, plants, especially flowers, are often picked for bouquets or dug up for home gardens. Some people do not realize there are laws protecting the plants or that they may be threatened or endangered. Others take them for purely economical reasons. People often dig up wild plants and sell them as propagated plants, which puts an even bigger strain on the population of endangered or threatened plants. When buying native plants, it is important to purchase plants from reputable nurseries. Native plant nurseries propagate plants from seeds that have been collected from plant stock in the nursery. If people are seen taking plants from areas where it is not permissible, they should be reported to the nearest authority. Crime Scene Investigation Crime scene investigation involves the use of scientific methods, physical evidence, deductible reasoning, and their interrelationships to gain knowledge of the series of events that surround a crime. Actions taken at the beginning of a crime scene investigation can play a pivotal role in solving a case. Careful, thorough investigation is key to ensure that potential physical evidence is not contaminated or destroyed or potential witnesses overlooked. The investigators on a crime scene are a multidisciplinary group of content-area experts. They approach an investigation as if it is their only opportunity to preserve and recover physical clues. They consider other case information or statements from witnesses or suspects carefully in their objective assessment of the scene. Investigations may change course a number of times during such an inquiry and physical clues, initially thought irrelevant, may become crucial to successfully solving the case. An investigator must not jump to an immediate conclusion as to what happened at the scene. Several different theories must be generated and then eliminated, as the evidence is collected. All crime scenes are unique. It is impossible to have a step-by-step procedure to approach every type of situation. There are, however, fundamental principles of investigating a crime scene and preserving evidence that are standard: Arriving at the Scene: Initial Response Preliminary Documentation and Evaluation of the Scene Processing the Scene Completing and Recording the Crime Scene Investigation Only those people responsible for investigating, securing, and processing the crime scene should be present. Nonessential police officers, district attorney investigators, etc. are never allowed into a secured crime scene unless they can add something (other than contamination) to the investigation. One way to dissuade unnecessary people from entering the crime scene is to have only one entrance/exit into the crime scene. An officer is placed at the entrance with a notebook to record the name of anyone that enters the crime scene. Non-essential people are always escorted by someone who is working the scene, so they do not inadvertently destroy evidence. Eating, drinking, or smoking is never allowed at a crime scene. A command post is set up somewhere outside of the restricted area for such purposes. It can be used as a gathering place for non-involved personnel, a place for investigators to take breaks, eat or drink, a communication center, a place for press conferences, a central intelligence area, etc. It is important that it is kept away from the crime scene. There is a set procedure for investigating a crime scene and collecting evidence. Success in an investigation is dependent on understanding and implementing this procedure. Consistency is a basic skill that can make or break an investigation. Everyone on the investigation team must be consistent in the manner in which they conduct their part of the investigation. Testimonial and Physical Evidence Evidence used to resolve an issue can be split into two areas: testimonial evidence and physical evidence. The testimonial evidence is any witnessed accounts of an incident. The physical evidence refers to any material items that are present on the crime scene. Evidence related to, and collected at, the crime scene is important because it: May prove that a crime has been committed. Establish any key elements of a crime. Link a suspect with a scene or a victim. Establish the identity of a victim or a suspect. Corroborate verbal witness testimony. Exonerate the innocent. Evidence Identification Markers Scene documentation is one crucial element in the evidence collection process. Scene documentation consists of notes/reports, sketching and photographs of the crime scene. To be effective the information in each of these tasks has to be consistently marked and labeled with one another. If an item of evidence is marked for identification with a certain letter or number, it has to maintain the same label or marking throughout the processing stage. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 2

3 In order to do this properly, evidence identification markers are used to mark and illustrate items of evidence. These markers come in a variety of forms for example, alpha-numeric stands, markers, cones, or flags, and they can be different sizes, colors, and shapes. The evidence marking system is used in the field as a successful tool that will reveal, simplify, organize and identify the numerous items of evidence found at a crime scene. When used properly it provides an easy to understand assessment of the scene showing the location, identification, and relationships of the evidence presented. The photographer places the identification markers next to evidence that is located by the investigators during the preliminary survey of the scene. Communications with co-investigators is very important at this stage. All investigators must use the same identification markers so that the numbers or letters correlate on all of the reports. Teamwork is essential at this stage to keep the information consistent. Getting Ready: Read through the handouts to become familiar with the crime scene investigation the students will be simulating at Presque Isle State Park. Make copies of the handouts 1 per student: Crime Scene Scenario Crime Scene Investigation and Personnel Involved chart Crime Scene Investigative Steps How To Collect Evidence Make one set of the Job Description handouts. If necessary, make additional copies for job duties that will be duplicated. Activity: 1. Explain to the students that they will be taking a trip to Presque Isle State Park where they will investigate a crime scene to determine who is stealing endangered plants from the park. Before they go to the park they must become familiar with how a crime scene investigation is conducted and who is involved. 2. Explain that plants and animals are protected in state parks by rules and regulations that prohibit cutting, picking, digging, damaging, or removing, in whole or in part, a living or dead tree, shrub, or plant. These rules and regulations are enforced by Park Rangers and people caught breaking these laws are subject to prosecution. 3. Pass out the Crime Scene Scenario to the students to read. When they have read the scenario, discuss some of the specifics about the case and any possible evidence that may be found at the crime scene. 4. Explain that crime scene investigations are conducted in a very systematic way. It is important to follow specific steps in the correct order so that evidence is not destroyed or overlooked. Pass out the Crime Scene Investigation and Personnel Involved chart and the Crime Scene Investigation Steps handout to the students. Review the handouts and discuss the different steps and the personnel involved in the investigation. 5. Explain to the students that they will each be representing one of the personnel in the investigation. You may choose to pick the jobs that are more suited to particular students or you may choose to let them pick their own jobs. Some jobs such as the Sketch Preparer are math and spatially oriented, whereas the Narrator involves writing skills. 6. When the students have been assigned their jobs, pass out the Job Descriptions to the students. The Lead Investigator will be a park staff person. Depending on the number of students, you may have to double up on some of the jobs. There should be three Responding Officers. The rest of the jobs with the possible exception of the Photographer (which depends on the number of digital cameras available), can be doubled. Prior to going to the park, the park staff will contact you to determine the number of students in each particular job. 7. Ask the students to read their job descriptions. Explain that they are responsible for all aspects of the job. Have the students make note cards for each part of their job. They should take these to the park so they don t forget any important information. 8. Have the students review the How To Collect Evidence handout. Although all of the students will not be collecting evidence, it will give everyone an idea of things they should be looking for in the crime scene. Evaluation: Students read the crime scenario and police report then discuss specific actions that occurred during the crime. Students define the steps in a crime scene investigation and the importance of following the steps in correct order. Students write note cards detailing each step of the job that they will perform at the crime scene. After reading a handout on collecting evidence, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 3

4 students describe what may be found at the crime scene and how it should be collected. References: Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks, Resource Management Plan Presque Isle State Park, The Art and Science of Criminal Investigation, Statement Analysis Put to the Test. Crime Scene Response Guidelines. Pennsylvania Department of Conversation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program. pdf, Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide For Law Enforcement. M/Sgt Hayden B. Baldwin, Retired, Crime Scene Interpretation. _isle. html, Go Erie.Com, Discover Presque Isle. lawsregs, ENVIRO SCI Inquiry, Pennsylvania Laws and Regulations. Forensic Science Resources. Developed By: E-Concepts LLC, Albert, JoAnn and Davis, JoAnn, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 4

5 Case #1069 Type of Case: Theft Date: List Current Date Location: Presque Isle State Park CRIME SCENE SCENARIO THE CASE OF THE STOLEN PLANTS Presque Isle has a unique character because of the variety of habitats that can be found there. It contains so many different habitats that it is perhaps unequaled by any other area of its size. Because of its unique geological and ecological features, Presque Isle has been named a National Natural Landmark. Habitats on Presque Isle include beaches, dunes, grasslands, savannas, mature forests, marshes, swamps, ponds, and lagoons. Because of the diversity of habitats, a diversity of plant species can be found here as well. More than 600 species of plants have been recorded at Presque Isle, many of them found no where else in Pennsylvania. At least 60 are on the State s list of Species of Special Concern which is determined by the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program. On this list are 38 species that are considered endangered in Pennsylvania. Natural resources, including plants, are protected in Pennsylvania State Parks by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Park Rangers, hired to protect the parks, are fully empowered as police officers and are able to arrest people who break the laws of the Bureau of State Parks. Scenario: Endangered plants have been disappearing from around the park. The Rules and Regulations for Pennsylvania State Parks states that cutting, picking, digging, damaging or removing, in whole or in part, a living or dead tree, shrub or plant is prohibited. A site has been discovered in the park where plants were recently dug up. This area is particularly known for the endangered Bicknell s Cranesbill (Geranium bicknelli.) Eyewitness accounts place a man and a woman in the area within the last day displaying suspicious behavior. The man appeared to be approximately six feet tall with grey hair and a beard. He was wearing a plaid shirt and jeans. The woman had a slight build and was approximately 5 feet tall. She had long, dark hair pulled back in a ponytail and was wearing a blue windbreaker and blue jeans. They were driving a late model green Ford pick up truck. You have been called in to investigate the crime scene and try to collect evidence that will lead to an arrest. PARK RANGER REPORT Summary of the Complaint On (current date) Park Ranger Susan Powell responded to a report that an area in Presque Isle State Park had been vandalized. Upon further investigation Ranger Powell discovered that the area in question is a site known to have the Pennsylvania endangered plant, Bicknell s Cranesbill (Geranium Bicknelli). The site showed holes in the ground where it appeared that plants had been dug up. She noted footprints in the area that led to the road and an area leading from the holes to the road that looked as if something heavy had been dragged. Ranger Powell immediately radioed her superior officer who in turn called in the Crime Scene Investigation Team before any evidence was tampered with. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 5

6 CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE The left hand column lists the steps in the investigation. The descriptions of each step are on the attached Crime Scene Investigation Steps page. The column headings are the various job descriptions involved in the crime scene investigation. The chart shows which personnel are involved in each step. CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATIVE STEPS AND PERSONNEL INVOLVED RESPONDING OFFICER LEAD INVESTIGTORS (PARK STAFF) NARRATOR PHOTOGRAPHER AND PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANT CASTING PERSONNEL SKETCH PREPARER AND SKETCH PREPARER ASSISTANT EVIDENCE COLLECTOR EVIDENCE RECORDER/ CUSTODIAN Arriving at the Scene X Scene Assessment X X X Preliminary Survey of Scene X X X X X X Main Investigation X X X X X X X Scene Debriefing X X X X X X X X Final Survey of the Scene X X X X X X X X Release of Scene X Forensic Lab X X X X X X X X Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 6

7 CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION STEPS Arriving at the Scene The initial responding officers at the crime scene must produce clear, concise, documented information encompassing his or her observations and actions. In addition, controlling the movement of persons at the crime scene and limiting the number of persons who enter the crime scene is essential to maintaining scene integrity, safeguarding evidence, and minimizing contamination. Scene Assessment Scene assessment allows for the development of a plan for the coordinated identification, collection, and preservation of physical evidence and identification of witnesses. It allows for the exchange of information among investigative personnel and the development of investigative strategies. This briefing allows Lead Investigators to obtain initial information of the crime scene prior to the scene investigation. Preliminary Survey of Scene Conducting a scene walk-through provides the Investigators with an overview of the entire scene. The walk-through IS the first opportunity to identify valuable and/or fragile evidence and determine initial investigative procedures, providing for a systematic examination and documentation of the scene. Written and photographic documentation records the condition of the scene as first observed, providing a permanent record. Main Investigation The main investigation begins after the scene walk through is completed. Investigators at the scene gather evidence through documenting, photographing, sketching, and collecting. This is where proof will be found to apprehend a suspect or suspects. Scene Debriefing This is the last opportunity for investigators to make sure that the crime scene investigation is complete. It also allows for final exchange of information between investigators so that nothing is left out. Final Survey Of Scene Conducting a final scene walk-through makes sure that all evidence has been collected and that materials and equipment are not left behind. Release of Scene The crime scene is released only after the final walk-through is complete. All documentation is turned over to the Narrator to be placed in a case file. Forensic Lab All evidence from the crime scene is taken to the forensic lab. The evidence is analyzed and compared with other evidence and control samples. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 7

8 JOB DESCRIPTION RESPONDING OFFICERS Arriving at the Scene 1. Initial Response: Upon arrival, assess the scene and treat the incidence as a crime scene. Cautiously approach and enter the crime scene, remaining observant of any potential evidence and environmental conditions. Preserve the scene with as little contamination and disturbance of physical evidence. Make initial observations (look, listen, smell) to assess the scene. Remain alert and attentive. Assume the crime is ongoing until determined to be otherwise. 2. Protect and Secure: Check the barrier tape and adjust it, if needed, to include all evidence. In some cases where weather might have an effect on footwear or tire tread evidence, you may have to place boxes, cones, etc. over foot or tire impressions until the Crime Scene Investigators arrive. Remember not to alter the evidence prior to any photographs. Control the flow of people and animals entering and leaving the scene to maintain integrity of scene. Do not let anyone eat or drink, move any items, touch anything unnecessarily, or litter within the established boundaries of the scene. 3. Document Actions and Observations: Document address/location, time, date, type of call, parties involved. Document initial observations of the crime scene, including the location of persons and items within the crime scene and the appearance and condition of the scene upon arrival. Document personal information from witnesses, victims, suspects, and any statements or comments made. Document, in detail, your actions and the actions of the other Responding Officers. Document the entry/exit of all people entering and leaving the scene, once boundaries have been established. Scene Assessment: 1. Brief the investigators and turn over all documentation to the Lead Investigator. 2. Assist in controlling the scene. The Lead Investigator will assign duties to you and the other Responding Officers for the remainder of the investigation. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 8

9 JOB DESCRIPTION NARRATOR Preliminary Survey of Scene: 1. Initial Documentation: Make pertinent notes as to possible evidence and approach/escape routes. Obtain the Responding Officers report from the Lead Investigator. All notes and reports should be done in a chronological order and should include no opinions, no analysis, or no conclusions. Just the facts!!! Document in writing your observation of the general appearance of the scene; extreme detail regarding evidence is not necessary at this point. Conduct the initial walk-through with the Lead Investigator for preparing a scene description. The scene description includes anything that is unusual and out of place. Any weather or environmental conditions are also included. Include the evidence observed, its location, condition, or anything remarkable about the item. Main Investigation: 1. Go to the Command Post and write a narrative description from the information gathered during the Preliminary Survey. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. 2. Record the debriefing discussion in writing. 3. Write the evidence that was collected at the crime scene on a flip chart. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk-through of the crime scene and record any new information that was missed. Release of Scene: 1. Before the Crime Scene is closed, obtain the following reports and documents and place them in the crime scene case file: Initial Responding Officers documentation (Responding Officer) Entry/Exit documentation (Responding Officer) Written narrative (Narrator) Photograph Log (Photographic Log Recorder) Crime scene sketches/diagrams (Sketch Preparer) Evidence Collection Log (Evidence Recorder/Custodian) Photographs (These will be viewed on a computer in the Forensic Lab) Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 9

10 JOB DESCRIPTION PHOTOGRAPHER Scene Assessment: 1. Photograph the entire area from outside the perimeter before it is entered by other personnel. When shooting the general overall scene, the photos should show the layout of the crime scene and the overall spatial relationships of the various pieces of evidence to each other. Be sure to take several photos from different angles. Before photographing, the camera range should be cleared of all personnel to keep the condition of the scene unaltered. Preliminary Survey: 1. Place evidence identification markers beside any potential evidence discovered by investigators. Before photographing begins of specific items and places, mark everything with evidence identification markers. You and your assistant should be the only two people placing markers so that evidence is not cross-marked. This will also ensure that the Evidence Collector knows the evidence was photographed before it is picked up. 2. Photograph footprints and mark with identification marker so casting personnel can begin their job. When photographing a footprint, a ruler should always be placed parallel to the side of the print, never in the print itself. Main Investigation: 1. Photograph all of the key pieces of evidence. Photograph major evidence items before they are moved; coordinate this effort with the Sketch Preparer, Evidence Recorder, and Evidence Collector. Take medium range photographs that show the relationships of individual pieces of evidence to other pieces of evidence or structures in the crime scene. Take close up photographs of key pieces of evidence. Place a ruler next to items where relative size is important. Use a ruler marked in centimeters because it will be more accurate than one used with inches. Take photographs from eye-level, when feasible, to represent the scene as it would be observed by a normal view. Do not hesitate to photograph something which has no apparent significance at that time it may later prove to be a key element in the investigation. Do not move or collect any evidence, this is the job of the Evidence Collector. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk through of the crime scene to look for any evidence or information that may have been missed. Take additional photographs as necessary. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 10

11 JOB DESCRIPTION PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANT/RECORDER Scene Assessment//Preliminary Survey/Main Investigation: 1. Assist Photographer at all times. Help the Photographer mark the evidence with evidence identification markers. Document each picture in the photographic log in chronological order with the corresponding identification markers. Document what the investigator is photographing or wishes to demonstrate in each photograph. This is to prevent the Photographer from trying to figure out what he or she was trying to accomplish with the photo at a later date. Record all measurements taken in association with photographs. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk-through of the crime scene to look for any evidence or information that may have been missed. 2. Record any new photographs the Photographer takes. Release of Scene: 1. Give the photographic log to the Narrator to be placed in the case file as evidence. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 11

12 JOB DESCRIPTION SKETCH PREPARER General Information on making a Crime Scene Sketch: The sketch is a map that establishes a permanent record of items, conditions, and distance/size relationships. Sketches supplement photographs. The drawback of photographs is that they are two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional objects. As a result, most photographs can distort the spatial relationships of the photographed objects causing items to appear closer together or farther apart than they actually are. Proportional measurements must be included in the sketch. A sketch is made of the scene as if someone is looking straight down (overhead sketch) or straight ahead (elevation sketch) at a crime scene. A sketch is usually made on graph paper in pencil with so many squares representing so many square feet or inches. The direction of the overhead view is determined by using a compass. Measurements are taken of the distances between objects and/or structures at the crime scene. Information recorded or drawn on the sketch: Location, Date, Time Case Number Sketch Preparer Evidence Evidence identification marker number or letter Measurements Weather conditions Lighting conditions Scale or scale disclaimer (not drawn to scale) Compass orientation Key or legend The Sketch Preparer Assistant will help to take measurements and obtain the information needed on the sketch. Preliminary Survey: 1. Measure and sketch the outside perimeter of the crime scene. Use graph paper and a scale of one square is equal to one foot. Main Investigation: 1. Sketch the scene. General progression of sketches: Lay out basic perimeter Draw fixed objects, trees, etc. Record position of evidence Record appropriate measurements double check Put the key/legend, compass orientation, etc. in a bottom corner of the sketch Use measurements to show pertinent size of evidence and distance relationships in the crime scene area. Try to be consistent using the scale of one square equals one foot. Use identification markers in the sketch that have already been placed at the scene. These identification markers should be consistent in the photographs, narrative description, and scene sketch. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk through of the crime scene to look for any evidence or information that may have been missed. Record any new information on the sketch. Release of Scene: 1. Give the sketch to the Narrator to be placed in the case file as evidence. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 12

13 JOB DESCRIPTION SKETCH PREPARER ASSISTANT General Information on making a Crime Scene Sketch: The sketch is a map that establishes a permanent record of items, conditions, and distance/size relationships. Sketches supplement photographs. The drawback of photographs is that they are two-dimensional representations of three-dimensional objects. As a result, most photographs can distort the spatial relationships of the photographed objects causing items to appear closer together or farther apart than they actually are. Proportional measurements must be included in the sketch. A sketch is made of the scene as if someone is looking straight down (overhead sketch) or straight ahead (elevation sketch) at a crime scene. A sketch is usually made on graph paper in pencil with so many squares representing so many square feet or inches. The direction of the overhead view is determined by using a compass. Measurements are taken of the distances between objects and/or structures at the crime scene. Information recorded or drawn on the sketch: Location, Date, Time Case Number Sketch Preparer Evidence Evidence identification marker number or letter Measurements Weather conditions Lighting conditions Scale or scale disclaimer (not drawn to scale) Compass orientation Key or legend Scene Assessment//Preliminary Survey/Main Investigation: 1. Assist the Sketch Preparer by helping to take measurements and obtain the information needed on the sketch. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk-through of the crime scene to look for any evidence or information that may have been missed. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 13

14 General Information on How to Make A Cast: Use the materials from the Cast Kit. JOB DESCRIPTION PLASTER CASTING PERSONNEL Mixing procedures: In a bucket, mix 6-9 oz. of water to one pound of dental stone or Plaster of Paris. Mixing takes about 5 to 7 minutes or until the mixture is the consistency of pancake batter. If it looks like you will need more of the mixture to fill the foot print impression, add another 1/2 pound of powder and 3-7 oz. of water. Continue adding powder and water until there is enough mixture to fill the impression. Mix quickly before the mixture starts to harden. Pouring: Before pouring the mixture onto the impression, very lightly sprinkle talcum powder over the impression, which acts as a fixative. Be sure not to over sprinkle. Pour the mixture onto a spoon while holding the spoon over the impression. DO NOT POUR THE MIX DIRECTLY INTO THE IMPRESSION!! By pouring the mixture in this manner you can direct the flow of the mixture and let it flow back into the impression. If using Plaster of Paris, you will need to add some wire or sticks as reinforcement so the cast does not fall apart. Before the cast hardens, scratch the following identifying information on the back side: Your name or initials Date Case number Identification Marker letter or number The cast must sit undisturbed for at least 30 minutes, after which the cast can be carefully lifted from the surface. Place a knife one inch from the cast and stick it directly into the ground under the cast. Pry upwards. Some soil or dirt may adhere to the cast, but DO NOT attempt to clean it. This will be done in the Laboratory. Preliminary Survey: 1. Make a cast of the footprint impression using the directions above. 2. Once this is completed the cast can be packaged as evidence. To package the cast, wrap paper towels around it until it is well cushioned. Place it in a paper bag and fold the top of the bag down. Give the cast to the Evidence Collector/Recorder to label and place in evidence custody. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk through of the crime scene to look for any evidence or information that may have been missed. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 14

15 JOB DESCRIPTION EVIDENCE COLLECTOR Main Investigation: 1. Search For Evidence: Do not collect any evidence until it has been recorded, photographed, and sketched by other investigators. Before collecting a piece of evidence make sure that it is marked with an evidence identification marker. This should have already been done by the Photographer. If there is not a marker check with the Photographer. Conduct the search based on a search pattern (grid, line, spiral, etc.) chosen by the Lead Investigator. Continually assess environmental and other factors that may affect the evidence (i.e. weather). Do not forget to check the entrance and exit areas at the scene for potential evidence. 2. Collect Evidence: Handle evidence carefully and protect it from contamination or harm. Always wear gloves when collecting and handling evidence. Use appropriate tools (i.e. tweezers, gloves, etc.) to pick up evidence. Follow techniques in How To Collect Evidence. Do not excessively handle evidence. Collect evidence and pass it to the Evidence Recorder to package, label, and record. 3. Collect Control Samples: Collect control samples such as plants, soil, etc. using the techniques in How To Collect Evidence. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk through of the crime scene to look for any evidence or information that may have been missed. Collect and pass it to the Evidence Recorder to package, label, and record. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 15

16 JOB DESCRIPTION EVIDENCE RECORDER/CUSTODIAN General Information: Assist Evidence Collector by appropriately collecting and packaging evidence. Always wear gloves when handling evidence. Do not excessively handle evidence after recovery. Main Investigation: 1. Tag or Label Evidence: Tag all evidence collected at the crime scene. If the item cannot be tagged, label it. Be consistent with the tags and labels on the evidence. Include the following information on all tags or labels: Description of item Evidence Identification number or letter Case number Date Location of collection Evidence Collector s name Evidence Recorder/Custodian s name Brand name (if any) Any serial number or garment information 2. Package Evidence: Most items of evidence will be collected in paper containers such as packets, envelopes, and bags. Liquid items can be transported in non-breakable, leakproof containers. Moist or wet evidence (soil, plants, etc.) can be collected in plastic containers at the scene and transported back to an evidence receiving area if the storage time in plastic is two hours or less. This is done to prevent contamination of other evidence because moisture allows the growth of microorganisms which can destroy or alter evidence. Any items which may cross contaminate each other must be packaged separately. The containers should be closed and secured with a label or tape to prevent the mixture of evidence during transportation. 3. Record Evidence: Describe the evidence and its location on the appropriate bag or envelope. Identify and seal the evidence containers (e.g., label, date, initials) at the crime scene. Record any evidence collected in the evidence log with appropriate notations for each item. Constantly check paperwork, packaging notations, and other pertinent recordings of information for possible errors which may cause confusion or problems at a later time. You cannot over-document the physical evidence. After packaging and tagging large or fragile pieces of evidence, move it to the command post where a Responding Officer will supervise it. Keep smaller pieces of evidence in in your possession. Scene Debriefing: 1. Discuss what evidence was collected and other preliminary scene findings with team members. Final Survey of Scene: 1. Take a final walk through of the crime scene to look for any evidence or information that may have been missed. Package, label, and record any new evidence that is found. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 16

17 HOW TO COLLECT EVIDENCE Once the crime scene has been thoroughly documented and the locations of the evidence noted, then the collection process can begin. The collection process will usually start with the collection of the most fragile or most easily lost evidence. Special consideration can also be given to any evidence or objects which need to be moved. Collection can then continue along the crime scene trail or in some other logical manner. Photographs should also continue to be taken if you are revealing layers of evidence which were not previously documented because they were hidden from sight. 1. Questioned Documents Procedure: Handwriting samples can be matched back to the individual that produced them. Known samples of the suspected person s handwriting must be submitted for comparison to the unknown samples. All paper items should be collected in paper envelopes or paper bags. 2. Shoe Prints and Tire Tracks Procedure: Shoeprints and tire tracks can be positively matched to a pair of shoes or to tires in a suspect s possession. Shoeprints and tire tracks can sometimes tell investigators what type of shoes or tires to look for when searching a suspect s residence or vehicle. Before any attempt is made at collecting shoeprints or tire tracks, photographs should be made using a ruler to determine the size of the print. Casts should be made of impressions using plaster or dental stone. Once hardened, the cast can be packaged in paper and submitted to the lab. The lack of success in finding footwear evidence is often due to: 1. Not believing that the impressions can be found at the scene after people have walked over the scene. 2. Incomplete searches of the crime scene. 3. Weather conditions. 4. The impression being intentionally destroyed. In many cases, footwear evidence can lead to positive identifications of which particular known shoe made the print. Footwear evidence can provide investigators with certain information that can assist them in locating a suspect. Most footwear evidence, when collected and preserved properly can provide the type, make, description, and approximate size of the shoe, the number of suspects, the path through and away from the crime scene, the involvement of the evidence, and the events that occurred during the crime. 3. Tools Procedure: The evidence consists of marks or impressions left by tools that were used at the crime scene and various types of tools found in the possession of suspects. In some instances, it is also possible to prove that marks of various types on tools were produced by objects which they contacted at the crime scene. Whenever possible submit the whole object containing tool marks to the laboratory. If this is not possible, carefully photograph and sketch the area containing the mark. Pack the object containing tool marks so that no alteration or damage will occur during shipment. Small objects should be wrapped with clean paper and placed in envelopes or boxes, while important areas on larger objects can be protected with paper. 4. Fibers Procedure: Fibers may be the same type and color as those found in a suspect s clothes, residence, vehicle, etc. Fibers should be collected in a paper packet and placed in an envelope. Fibers that may be a match should be collected from a suspect and submitted to the lab for comparison. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 17

18 How to Collect Evidence, pg Fracture Matches Procedure: Fracture matches can positively link broken pieces at the scene with pieces found in the possession of a suspect. For example, headlight fragments found at the scene of a hit and run could be positively matched to a broken headlight (just like putting together a jigsaw puzzle) on a suspect s vehicle. Larger fragments should be placed in paper bags or envelopes. Smaller fragments should be placed in a paper packet and then placed in an envelope. 6. Paint Procedure: Paint can be the same type and color as paint found in the possession of a suspect. Representative paint chips or samples should be collected from the suspect and submitted to the lab for comparison. Paint fragments should be collected and placed in an envelope. 7. Glass Procedure: Glass fragments found at the scene may have the same characteristics as glass found in the possession of a suspect. Smaller glass fragments should be placed in a paper packet and then in an envelope. Larger pieces should be wrapped securely in paper or cardboard and then placed in a padded cardboard box to prevent further breakage. Representative samples from the suspect should be compared to the scene samples. 8. Other Trace Evidence Procedure: Sometimes during a crime, there are items which may be transferred to a perpetrator from the scene or from the perpetrator to the scene (soil, rocks, plant material, etc.) Soil samples should be placed in a non-porous container such as plastic or glass. Collect approximately two tablespoons of soil that can be tested against soil found on clothing or tools. Collect plant samples by taking parts of the plants that contain a stem, leaves, and flowers (if present). Place in a paper container, such as an envelope, so that mold does not begin to collect when moisture escapes from the plant. Collect plant samples from areas where disturbance has taken place. 9. Other Evidence Procedure: Depending on the type of crime committed, there are other types of evidence that can be collected at a crime scene. This evidence includes: fingerprints, firearms, bite marks, broken fingernails, blood and body fluids, and hair. Since they will not be examined in this case, the detail on how to collect them has not been covered. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of State Parks 18