7: Crime Scene Investigations

Learning Objectives

• To learn the scientific methodology of crime scene investigations
• To understand the roles of the crime scene technicians
• To understand the types processing of a crime scene
• To understand the importance of the proper documentation of a crime scene
• To learn the importance of diagramming a crime scene as an aid to testimony
• To learn the different methods of diagramming a crime scene

Every criminal investigation must have a foundation that is based upon facts that can later be proven in court. If the evidence is not legally obtained, documented, or properly preserved, the entire case will be in jeopardy and may be dismissed by the magistrate under Section 871 of the California Penal Codes. The foundation for crimes against persons and property is established by a process of diligently discovering, preserving, documenting, and collecting the evidence from the scene of a crime, as well as analyzing clues from the criminal event. This process involves employing scientific methodologies and forensic procedures to understand the event, and to provide a connection between the scene and the victim, the scene and the suspect, the scene with potential witnesses, and a link between the victim and the suspect. This process is called crime scene investigations.

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