CH04 Dutelle SECURE

2
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PART
THE BASICS
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INVESTIGATION
Chapter 4
The Crime Scene NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Chapter 5 Physical Evidence

Chapter 6 Suspect Identification
Chapter
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC 7 Interviewing
© Jones &and Interrogation
Bartlett Learning, LLC
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9781284082852_CH04_Dutelle.indd 65 22/12/17 9:51 pm

chapter
4
The Crime Scene
KEY TERMS
“Crimeis common. Logic ABFO scale grid search press pool

is rare. Therefore, it is upon baseline killer’s signature rough sketch
© Jones & Bartlett Learning,
logic rather than upon crime LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
circle search lane/strip search spiral search
that you should dwell.” close-up photographs legend swath
Sherlock Holmes contamination line search trace evidence
“The Adventures of the crime scene mapping triangulation
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Copper Beeches” & Bartlett
processing planLearning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
midrange photographs trophy
NOT FOR
crimeSALE
sceneOR DISTRIBUTION
sketch NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
overall photographs zone search
final sketch photo log
first-responding photo placard
© Jones & Bartlettofficers
Learning, LLC © scene
preliminary Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR SALE OR global positioning
DISTRIBUTION survey NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
system (GPS)
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Upon completion of this chapter,
NOT FOR students
SALEwill
ORbeDISTRIBUTION
able to:
Recognize the responsibilities of all members of the crime scene team
Describe how to process crime scenes, big and small
Explain the use of templates and virtual photography in constructing crime-
© Jonesscene
& Bartlett Learning, LLC
sketches © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Construct crime-scene notes
Appreciate the importance of recording/documenting the crime scene
© Shutterstock / happykanppy

First Response 67
© Jones Introduction to Crime investigators will need to develop the ability

& Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Scenes
to deal with outdoor crime scenes as well. For
NOT FOR
example, SALE OR
the roadways DISTRIBUTION
driven, the areas adja-
No matter what the crime or where the loca- cent to a crime scene that facilitate parking,
tion, no two crime scenes are ever the same. and the pathways leading to and away from an
Each crime scene encompasses not only the exterior scene may contain evidence of crime-
geographic area but © also persons and things. related passage.
Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Protecting the area is pointless if what is con-
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION First Response NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
tained within it is not also protected. The
entryways and exits and travel routes to and
from the scene must similarly be guarded The investigative team’s most valuable inves-
against contamination. The geographic area tigative tool consists of the officers who arrive
and the material&objects within it usuallyLLC
can first on the scene (FIGURE 4.1). Too often,
© Jones Bartlett Learning, these
officers are excluded from the investiga-
be secured easily. More difficult is preserving
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION tive “club,” treatedNOT FOR SALE
as underlings, OR DISTRIBUTION
and denied
the people on the crime scene. Yet, they must
be preserved as meticulously as any other services and training that could increase the
evidence. chance of investigative success. It is impera-
All crime scenes contain physical evi- tive that first-responding officers possess an first-respond-
understanding of the investigative process, ing officers
© Jones & dence, that is,
Bartlett evidence that
Learning, LLCcan be touched, including © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
a familiarity with and an apprecia- First officers to
NOT FORseen,SALE or otherwise perceived using unaided
OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
tion for forensic evidence and its location, pro- arrive at the crime
senses or forensic techniques. The difficult task scene. They are
is to determine what is evidence and what is cessing, and handling. A telephone at a crime
responsible for
not. However, it is better to process too much scene may be the most convenient phone to
protecting the crime
evidence than too little. Experience will help an use, but getting to the phone and picking up scene from any
investigator begin to © the handset may destroy essential evidence. avoidable contami-
Jones & Bartlett Learning,
pare down what is taken LLC
Ambling through the crime scene is prevent-
from a crime scene. Each crime has its own set nation in order to
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able through education about the nature of the FOR SALE
preserve it forDISTRIBUTION
OR inves-
of evidence parameters that help in distinguish-
ing evidence from nonevidence. first-response function. tigation purposes
Anything taken from the crime scene should Protection of the crime scene will reduce
be instrumental in discovering the facts. Keep in crime scene contamination. All crime scenes
mind©that and all evidence retrieved from a crime scene contamination
Jones & Bartlett
the evidence Learning,
reveals LLC are contaminated;©the
the facts; when Jones
goal
& not
is
Bartlett
to add
Learning,
to
LLC
Materials and other
the evidence is inconsistent with a hypothesis,
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION the contamination.NOT FOR SALE OR
Only materials handled in DISTRIBUTION
factors added to
the hypothesis must be changed to fit the
contamination-free laboratories can be said to crime scenes that
evidence—not the other way around. Numerous
be truly uncontaminated. The trick is to pre- were not there at
court cases have reduced the significance of the time of the crime
suspects’ confessions and highlighted the key vent any untoward or unnecessary contam-
and can negatively
role of evidentiary corroboration. The impor- ination from occurring once the scene and
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning,
its contents come into the possession of the LLC affect the proper
tance of crime scene processing continues to collection and inter-
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evidence is recognized readily
NOTAnyone
police. FOR SALEenteringOR DISTRIBUTION
a crime scene leaves pretation of evidence
as such. Seemingly insignificant material left at something; anyone departing a crime scene
a crime scene can increase in importance as the
trial approaches or during the trial. The skills of
the investigator may © come into play
Jones anywhere
or at any time.
The crime scene includes all areas through
which the participants moved while entering to
commit the crime, while committing the crime,
and while exiting the crime scene. Generally, the
crime ©scene
Jones is a &
single, well-defined
Bartlett area, but
Learning, LLCit © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
may encompass several noncontiguous areas.
Because most human activity takes place in
sheltered places, the majority of crimes occur
inside. Buildings and vehicles are the most com-
mon crime scenes, so most crime scene pro-
cessing involves these locations. FIGURE 4.1: First responder.
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC However, as © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
more and more people seek outdoor recreation, Ryan J. Lane/Getty.

68 CHAPTER 4 The Crime Scene
takes something along. This theory is what

prompts forensic scientists to search for min- EXHIBIT 4.1
ute materials that may have been leftNOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
at the
scene of the crime. The First
First-responding officers must protect the
Amendment to
© Shutterstock/Africa Studio.
scene by:
the U.S. Constitution
© Jones & Bartlett
Conceptualizing Learning,
the crime scene LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Congress shall make no law respecting an
Establishing the boundaries of the crime NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
establishment of religion, or prohibiting the
scene free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom
Keeping out unauthorized personnel and of speech, or of the press; or the right of the
the curious people peaceably to assemble, and to petition
the government for a redress of grievances.
© Jones &Bartlett Learning,
Detaining LLC
and separating any eyewitnesses © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Continuing security until properly relieved NOT
U.S. FOR SALE
OR DISTRIBUTION
Constitution. Art./Amend. I.
While doing this, they must also obtain medical

assistance for anyone at the crime scene who
is injured. the amendment and have little understand-
The most difficult situations to © Jones & Bartlett
deal with ing of theLearning, LLC established First
cases that have
are those
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION involving other agencies and media Amendment limitations.
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Nowhere does the
representatives. Medical examiners, emergency First Amendment refer to the people’s right to
medical personnel, and coroners all have duties know, nor does it refer to extraordinary rights of
to perform. Bodies cannot be released until offi- the press. It simply refers to the abridgment of
cials have completed their investigative analy freedom of the press. The purpose of the First
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC Amendment is to protect
sis. Often, there will be someone making a © Jones & Bartlett
the press Learning, LLC
and the pub-
demand for entry who may be
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION upset by being lic from a strong central
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government ORtheDISTRIBUTION
excluded from the scene. It is vital that the temptation that it would have to censor the
police and all persons associated with a crime press. Denial of access to a crime scene does
scene in any capacity be aware of and com- not abridge freedom of the press; journalists
ply with the written policies and procedures are free to write whatever they wish, within the
that apply to crime scene security. Media rep- © Jones
confines & Bartlett
of laws that governLearning,
the media. LLC
resentatives often
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION attempt to gain access and In managing the press,
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTIONit is important to
information by invoking the First Amendment attempt to maintain a good rapport with all
(EXHIBIT 4.1) and the people’s right to know. representatives of the media. First responders
Some police officers are only vaguely aware of do not have the responsibility to make any
INVESTIGATOR’S © Shutterstock/Janaka Dharmasena.
NOTEBOOK
Dos and Don’ts for Dealing with the Media
Do Don’t
Be firm Be unnecessarily gruff
Be specific Be pedantic
Be courteous Make any on-record statements
© Jones & Designate
Bartletta press
Learning,
pool areaLLC © Jonesor&
Apologize Bartlett
make Learning, LLC
exceptions
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Escort media DISTRIBUTION from the crime scene NOT FORreleases
Make press SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
© Shutterstock/Nutink.
Advise media representatives of press releases Assist in coverage

Encourage coverage Allow photos to be taken
Recognize First Amendment rights Allow access to witnesses
Encourage investigative reporting Take no for an answer
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Allow media LLC
to be obstructive
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Methodical Approach to Crime Scene Processing 69
INVESTIGATOR’S
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NOTEBOOK
Media Checklist
Do not contact the media unless you are trained and designated as the public information officer
(PIO) or you are cleared through the PIO’s office NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Be courteous at all times. An angry press does not serve the interests of law enforcement
Bar all media from a crime scene and advise media representatives that an area will be set aside from
which all information will be disseminated
“No comment” is often the standard refrain of police. It is irritating to the press and should be replaced
with a more rapport-building standard, such as “The public information officer will make a statement to
all press representatives as soon as the situation allows.”
Avoid all contact with the media off duty as well as on duty, unless specifically charged with that
responsibility
Unauthorized statements quoted by the press are often claimed by the police to be misquotations or
taken out of context; in reality, they are usually accurate, FOR
although SALE
uttered OR DISTRIBUTION
thoughtlessly or in haste.
Think before you speak, and realize that anything you say can be recorded and broadcast.
If you are the subject of press coverage, do not fall victim to believing the image that the press is
attempting to portray
statements to the press. The public informa- As important as first responders are in press pool
tion officer should make all statements to the securing the usual crime scene, they play an A group of journal-
press,
©and all requests
Jones for access
& Bartlett LLC even more significant
or statements
Learning, role in
© Jones & handling
Bartlett wit-
Learning, LLC to
ists authorized
should be referred to that officer. Media rep- nesses and securing the area in an underwa- cover an event
resentatives have no greater right to enter a ter investigation. They may have to cordon off
secured area than any other citizen, nor have high-use areas and contact agencies that pos-
they any greater right to information. Under no sess authority over the area.
circumstances are media representatives to be
allowed
© Jones & Bartlettaccess to a crime scene.
Learning, LLC All information Methodical
© Jones & BartlettApproach Learning,to LLC trace
evidence
provided to the press regarding an investigation
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SALEbeOR DISTRIBUTION Crime
NOT Scene
FOR SALE Processing
OR DISTRIBUTION Evidence left at the
managed through press pools and
scene of a crime
public statements. Crime scenes can be complex and confus- that usually cannot
Once the boundaries of the scene have been ing. The first step in crime-scene processing be seen with the
determined and made secure, evidence must be is to establish a plan. All steps of crime scene naked eye and that
discovered and collected and the&crime
© Jones recon-
Bartlett response
Learning, LLCshould be calculated and ©methodi-
Jones & Bartlett
requires theLearning,
assis- LLC
structed. Most evidence at a crime scene is vul- cal to ensure the most positive result. It is for tance of lights or
reagents to visualize
nerable, and often the most effective evidence this reason that investigative personnel should
is the most easily damaged. Trace evidence is take the information garnered from their pre-
extremely fragile and susceptible to contamina- liminary scene survey and develop a systematic
tion. It is usually undetectable by the naked eye plan for proceeding with the processing efforts.
and must undergo extensive laboratory proce-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC A systematic crime©scene Jones & Bartlett
processing plan Learning,
will crime LLCscene
dures before it can be preserved and used later ensure that nothing is overlooked and no per- processing
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at trial. Items of evidence, such as blood, fin- tinent evidence is lost in the course of the sub-
gerprints, hairs, fibers, footwear, broken glass, sequent investigation. Plan created to carry
out a systematic
paint scrapings, tread marks, footprints, and All crime scenes are different, but there are
investigation of a
toolmarks, are easily destroyed, altered, or con- guidelines that exist in all cases that serve as a
crime scene
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taminated. Learning, LLC
people authorized by written © Jones
framework for& Bartlett
the Learning,
processing LLC
efforts. However,
NOT FORpolicy
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OR DISTRIBUTION often,
NOT these
FOR tasks are not
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DISTRIBUTION
be allowed on the scene. another but may overlap. This will be addressed

as the chapter unfolds. In any case, investigative

© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & for another. While some of the methods might
and processing efforts should start in the least appear to be redundant, this serves to corrobo-
intrusive and destructive manners and NOT FOR SALE
prog- rate theOR
otherDISTRIBUTION
methods and ensures that nothing
ress to the most intrusive and destructive. Pro-
is overlooked and that all areas are accounted
cessing the scene this way will ensure evidence
for. Notes and reports are not sufficient by them-
integrity for as long as possible. The first phase
selves because they do not accurately portray
is documentation.
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC the scene in detail in © the
Jonesway that photographs
can. However, photographs are not sufficient by
NOT FOR SALE
Documenting the Crime OR DISTRIBUTION themselves, as they often need SALE
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more explana-
tion, which is the purpose of reports and notes.
Scene Sometimes, notes are dictated into a tape or dig-
Documentation efforts at the crime scene ital recording device; then, at some point, they
© Jones & begin the moment
Bartlett LLC gets a call and are©transcribed
an officer
Learning, Jones &into a written format for court
purposes. For that reason, notes and reports
NOT FORcontinue
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DISTRIBUTION areNOT FOR
defined as SALE
being OR
both DISTRIBUTION
audio and writ-
the most time-consuming but also the most
important step in crime scene investigation ten. Although photographs are a good tool for
(CSI). It is the purpose of crime scene docu- documenting the visual aspects of a scene, noth-
mentation to record and preserve the location ing brings the scene to life as much as video-
and relationship taping. However, videos cannot be used in the
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC of discovered evidence © as well & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Jones
as the condition of the crime scene as it was same manner as photographs from a forensic
analysis standpoint when documenting physi-
when the documenter was observing it. For the
purposes of this text, there are four primary cal evidence.
methods of documentation that are involved
in CSI. These are:
© Jones
1. Reports and &
note Learning, LLC Documentation/Reports
Bartlett
taking © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR
2. Photographs SALE OR DISTRIBUTION There is an adage inNOT
policeFOR
work SALE
that, “if OR DISTRIBUTION
it’s not
written down, it didn’t happen.” To a large extent,
3. Videography
this is true. It is important that each step of the
4. Crime-scene sketching and mapping process and every action taken be documented
(FIGURE 4.2) extensively using notes, photographs, sketches,
and reports. The written notes begin with the
NOT FORThe SALE end purpose of documentation should be
OR DISTRIBUTION NOT
first FOR SALE
responder OR DISTRIBUTION
and continue throughout the
the successful notation of all observations made
at the scene of the crime, which will ensure that investigative process. At each step, those individ-
the individual engaged in the documentation uals involved in the process are responsible for
efforts will best be able to recall the events in documenting all observations they made and all
the future. Importantly, this information may be actions they performed. This includes documen-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & tation
Bartlett Learning,
of efforts LLC in negative find-
that resulted
presented in court.
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE
Each of these methods is an integral part of ings. AnOR DISTRIBUTION
example of a negative finding is a search
crime scene documentation. None is a s ubstitute for latent fingerprints that yielded nothing.
Each department typically has its own
format and requirements for various levels of
documentation in the investigative process.
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC At the very basic level, © Jones
written&documentation
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION consists of: NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Notification information
Arrival information
Scene description
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR
Victim SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
description
Crime scene team
Essentially, there are two types of written
documentation. The first is notes. Notes are
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & brief—often
Bartlett Learning,
written in aLLC
bullet-point format—
FIGURE 4.2: Documenting the crime scene. documentation of efforts, observations, and
Blitznetzov/Getty. actions. Notes are taken at the time of the

Taking Notes 71
incident and are informal. The second type of to recollect the investigation in detail and thus
© Jones written
& Bartlett Learning, LLC form© Jones & Bartlett
the backbone Learning,and
of the prosecution LLC the
documentation is a report.
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Reports canDISTRIBUTION
be either narratives or fill-in- NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
defense.
the-blank forms that are utilized to record per- All courtroom testimony is balanced
tinent information relating to a case. These are against the documentation that the investi-
formal and are typically unique to a particu- gator has accumulated, including his or her
lar department and specific to a certain type field notes. At the time of trial, the investiga-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, tor mayLLC use the field notes to refresh© his
Jones
or her& Bartlett Learning, LLC
of scene or case. Narrative reports are formally
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written, usually in the first person, active voice, DISTRIBUTION
memory, but doing so allows the defense NOT FORan SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
and past tense. They document all actions taken opportunity to examine the notes and conduct
by the report’s author and all observations he a cross-examination of the witness pertaining
or she made. to the notes. With that risk in mind, the inves-
tigator should put nothing in the notes that he
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC or she would not be © willing
Jonesto&share
Bartlett
with Learning, LLC
Taking Notes
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION defense, the judge,NOT FOR SALE OR
the
DISTRIBUTION
or the jury. An additional
Note takers should record field notes while they caveat: All notes are available to the defense
are still under the stimuli that made something upon request, and the officer testifying is not
seem noteworthy, not later (FIGURE 4.3). Field allowed to remove anything from the notebook.
notes constitute the most readily available Each notebook should contain notes about one
and reliable record of the crime scene. They
investigation only, so that sensitive material
NOT FORdoSALE OR DISTRIBUTION
not form a logical flow of events but make fromNOT FORinvestigation
another SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
is not publicized
up a hodgepodge of information gleaned from inadvertently.
numerous perceptions, interviews, and mea- In some states, there is a rule of procedure
surements. In large investigations, the task of that allows the defense to inquire of the witness
note taking can seem overwhelming, but the whether there are any other writings or state-
basic principles remain the same (see Investi-
LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
ments taken or made by the witness that are
gator’s Notebook). NOT FOR SALE OR not included in the official report. AnNOT
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affirmative
Field notes are the building blocks that the answer allows the defense to request a recess
investigator uses to develop hypotheses and, and an order directing the witness to obtain the
later, a theory of the crime. Field notes also documentation and return immediately with
can stimulate the investigator’s memory if and it to the courtroom. Even if the witness is not
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC using the notes to ©
when the case goes to court. They provide the
Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
refresh his or her memory,
basic information for the official report, which NOT
the defense may still obtain FOR themSALE
if theyOR DISTRIBUTION
exist.
is the foundation for trial testimony. The official
report will contain numerous entries. The inves- Use of Notes
tigator will produce an initial report early in the
Notes are useful for the following reasons:
investigation; as the investigation develops and
new information is discovered, the investigator 1. ©AsJones & Bartlettprogresses,
the investigation Learning,suspects
LLC
NOT FORwill
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add supplemental reports to the original. NOT FOR SALE
and witnesses make OR DISTRIBUTION
statements that may
The compilation of these reports, in conjunc- seem insignificant at the time but later may
tion with the field notes, allows the i nvestigator prove to be important. Field notes allow
retrieval of those statements.
2. If a witness or suspect makes a statement
and later adds information inconsistent
with that statement, the notes will assist
in impeaching the new statement and may
lead to a confession.
3. It is through gathering, correlating, organiz-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones
ing, and comparing & Bartlett
information that Learning,
the LLC
crime scene is reconstructed OR DISTRIBUTION
and derivative
evidence is developed.
4. Notes are important in preparing for inter-
views of witnesses, interrogation of sus-
pects, and testifying before the court.
FIGURE 4.3: An officer makes field notes.
5. Attorneys for the state and the defendant
Yuri Arcurs/Getty. will be interested in the time, date, and

NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION INVESTIGATOR’S NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
© Shutterstock/Janaka Dharmasena.
NOTEBOOK
Elements of Field Notes
The Five Ws and an H
Who
committed the crime?
had a motive to commit the crime?
was the victim?
saw what happened?
reported the crime?
might know something?
wereLLC
the first people on the scene? © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
What
was the relationship between victim and perpetrator?
crime was committed?
© Jones
was &byBartlett
said and whom? Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
evidence might there be? NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
evidence has been discovered?
is missing?
was left?
wasOR
NOT FOR SALE moved?DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
was touched?
Where
did the crime occur?
was evidence located?
are all the witnesses?
were all the witnesses?
do witnesses live?
©is Jones
the suspect? © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
was entry made?
was exit made?
When
© Jones & Bartlett
was theLearning, LLC
crime committed? © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
was the crime reported?
was evidence discovered?
did the first responder arrive?

Taking Notes 73
© Jones & Bartlett

was the Learning, LLC
scene secured? © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
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was OR DISTRIBUTION
the scene released? NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Why
was the crime committed?
was © Jones
the victim chosen? & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
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was the location chosen?
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were the criminal implements chosen?
How
© Jones
did & Bartlett
the perpetrator Learning, LLC
gain entry? © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
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was the crime committed?
DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
did the perpetrator depart?
Important Information
Field notes should alsoLLC
contain the following: © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Identification of date and time (the date and time of assignment to the case; the date and time of
arrival on the scene).
Description of the location (description of the scene on arrival, including weather, lighting, approaches,
and geographic location). Information regarding the location can be useful in establishing lines of
© Jones
sight and the distance & Bartlett Learning, LLC
of visibility. © Jones
Description of the crime scene (broad overview that narrows to specific noticeable details, such
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as forced entry, disarranged furniture, bloodstains, blood spatter, and the condition of doors and
windows).
Listing of absent items. What should be at the crime scene but is missing often reveals something
©about
Jones & Bartlett
the perpetrator and Learning, LLC
the nature of the crime. A serial killer might take©a Jones &trophy
souvenir or Bartlett
that Learning, LLC
trophy
features
NOT FORprominently
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DISTRIBUTION NOT or trophy
FOR may be help-
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OR DISTRIBUTION
ful in establishing a profile of the killer and figuring out the killer’s signature (the pattern associated souvenir of a con-
with his or her killings). quest, such as a
body part
Description of wounds on the victim. The types and locations of wounds should be recorded. If discol-
oration is present, its location and color should be included.
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC killer’s
Photograph log. The photographer should keep a separate photo log; if the investigator takes the signature
photos, he or she should place an entry in the field notes for each entry. The entry should include a The pattern associ-
description of the content of the photo; the speed of the film; the shutter speed; the distance from the ated with a person’s
object photographed; the location and direction from which the photo was taken; and the date, time, killings
and case number or name.
Video © Jones
log. If the investigator & Bartlett
is taking Learning,
the video, the following LLC
information should be recorded:©TheJones
type & Bartlett Learning, LLC
of recording device, NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
the type of film (if not using digital), the type of lens or lenses, and NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
whether artificial
light was used.
Identification of the evidence recovered and its location. All evidence must be geographically and
temporally located. It is the investigator’s job to record sufficient information to adequately place each
©piece
Jonesof evidence. All measurements should be recorded, as well as the identity of the person who
discovered the evidence. To identify evidence, the investigator should provide a description of the
evidence and note its location, the time discovered, who discovered it, the NOT FOR
type of SALE
container usedOR
to DISTRIBUTION
store it, the method of sealing the container, the markings used on tags and evidence, and where the
evidence is being kept (maintenance log).

NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION INVESTIGATOR’S
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NOTEBOOK
Field Notes Best Practices
Write legibly
Write complete thoughts
Indicate date and time for all entries.
For each case, create one set of notes in one or more notebooks
Share information with LLC
other investigators © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Corroborate all information NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Not everything is important, but err on the side of recording too much rather than too little
Periodicallytranscribe your notes in type (they make more sense and patterns emerge
more clearly)
Organize transcriptions into categories, such as persons, places, and things; physical evidence;
forensic evidence; and so on
Use a matrix to assist in identifying information. Variations in witness statements regarding height,
weight, hair color, stature, eye color, and car color or make can be recorded in a matrix to arrive at a
range for each of the identifying characteristics, to compute an average, or to discover the most
©common
Jonesresponse.
& Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett
Learning, LLC
manner in which evidence and informa- the most direct knowledge of what the scene
tion were gathered and will have a vested originally looked like when law enforcement
interest in the quality and thoroughness of
responded to the event. He or she should also
NOT FOR SALE
all reports,DISTRIBUTION
OR notes, and entries. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
know of any changes made to the scene since
6. Memory is always suspect and subject that initial response. It is very important that
to extrapolation and interpolation, the investigators are well briefed by first respond-
grist of cross-examination. Memory cor- ers regarding the case before conducting their
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, roborated
LLC by reports and notes © takes on & examination
Jones Bartlett Learning, LLCThis ensures that
of the scene.
a believability not possessed by unaided the preliminary scene survey will result in
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION memory.
maximum information gathering, while min-
imizing scene contamination and evidence
destruction. The primary purpose of the pre-
Conducting a Preliminary liminary scene survey is to assess the scene for
preliminary
scene survey Scene © Survey
Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC logistic and safety © Jones & Bartlett
considerations. During Learning,
the LLC
A careful walk NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION preliminary site survey, NOTthe FOR SALE OR
investigator DISTRIBUTION
visu-
through a crime
A preliminary scene survey (sometimes
ally locates evidence or prospective sites for
scene, conducted to called a walk-through) of the crime scene is
trace evidence. The site survey will assist the
develop a perspec- conducted to develop a perspective on the
nature of the crime, its commission, and the investigator in determining the boundaries
tive on the nature of
the crime,© its Jones type of evidence that will be expected and of the search, identifying focal points for the
com- & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
mission, the type of searched for. Once the scene is secure, investi- search, and discovering important evidentiary
NOT
evidence that will be
FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT
items FOR
that maySALE OR DISTRIBUTION
need special photographic or
gative personnel should conduct a preliminary
expected, and the scene survey. The preliminary scene survey forensic attention. Evidence that deteriorates
types of resources will have the greatest informational possi- over time or with exposure should be given
necessary to prop- processing priority. Experts may need to be
bilities if the first responder is available to
erly process the
© Jones & Bartlett accompany
scene Learning, LLC
the investigative
p © Jones & invited
ersonnel. This Bartlettto Learning,
the scene toLLCinterpret bloodstain
is because it is the first responder who has patterns or to process trace evidence.

Conducting a Preliminary Scene Survey 75
The following list contains ten suggested event and not an evidence search or collection
© Jones matters
to consider while conducting a prelim- effort.
NOT FORinary
SALEsite OR DISTRIBUTION
survey:
NOT
ThereFOR SALE
are two OR DISTRIBUTION
schools of thought about
whether investigative personnel should wear
1. As with first responder efforts, make note
gloves while conducting this scene survey.
of transient evidence present within the
One view is that if personnel wear protective
scene and efforts needed to properly docu-
©preserve
Jones such
& Bartlett gloves, they
Learning, LLCwill be more inclined to © touch items& Bartlett Learning, LLC
Jones
ment, collect, and evidence.
and, therefore, they should not wear gloves
If steps have not NOT
alreadyFOR
beenSALE OR
taken to doDISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
and should adhere to the “hands in pockets”
so, it may be necessary at this point to doc-
approach. The other view is that personnel
ument, collect, package, and preserve such
should always wear gloves whenever they are
evidence.
inside a crime scene. The author agrees with
2. Make note of weather and climate condi-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC the latter line of thinking © Jones for & Bartlett
several Learning, LLC
reasons.
tions (both indoors and outdoors). First, the purpose of
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE protect
gloves is to both OR DISTRIBUTION
3. Note whether lights are turned on or off. the wearer from contamination and to protect
any item touched from contamination by the
4. Document whether doors and windows wearer. While it is true that in the walk-through
are locked, unlocked, open, closed, or if there should be no touching of items, this is
there appears
© Jones & Bartlett to be LLC
Learning, evidence of forced not©toJones
say that &transient
Bartlettevidence
Learning, will LLC
not be
entry.
discovered that SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
necessitates movement or col-
5. Note the presence of any particular odors lection. Having gloves on will ensure that such
that may be connected to an individual evidence is minimally damaged if such con-
(perfume, cologne) or an event (gas, smoke, tact is necessary. Also, a “hands in the pocket
chemicals, etc.). approach” is not realistic because the point of a
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, preliminaryLLCscene survey is to document © Jones
condi-& Bartlett Learning, LLC
6. Look for signs of activity (meal preparation,
NOT FOR SALE OR
house tidy or disheveled, etc.) or struggle.
DISTRIBUTION
tions present throughout the scene. The NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
investi-
gator most certainly will have his or her hands
7. If timing is of great concern, look for date outside of any pockets and will be writing and
and time indicators such as on food, news- pointing throughout the process. It is best to
papers, mail, etc. have personnel wear gloves with the thought in
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC the forefront of his©orJones her mind &that
Bartlett
nothingLearning,
is LLC
8. Attempt to locate the most probable point
of entry, point of exit, paths between them,
NOT FOR SALE
to be touched unless it is absolutely imperative. OR DISTRIBUTION
and any other areas of apparent action After the preliminary scene survey has been
within the scene. These areas should be conducted, investigative personnel should have
noted to ensure that processing personnel the information they need to apprise supervi-
will reduce their movements in such areas sors of the situation and to lay out the crime
scene processing& Bartlett
strategy. Learning,
At this stage,LLCthere
to allow for the optimum opportunity to dis-
cover and collect physical evidence within may NOTbe aFOR
call SALE
for more OR DISTRIBUTION
specialized personnel.
Some of these personnel may be from within
the scene.
the ranks of law enforcement. Other special-
9. Attempt to answer the questions of: Who? ists, such as entomologists or engineers, may be
What? When? Where? How? and Why? as necessary to provide technical a ssistance that is
they pertain to the© scene
Jones and&the
Bartlett Learning,
crime in LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
outside of the training and education of those
question. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION in law enforcement. Agencies are encouraged NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
10. Assess the scene for personnel (How many? to think broadly and utilize sources such as
Specialized?), equipment (How much? local universities and other private, local, state,
What kind?), and logistical concerns (How and federal agencies to maximize the investi-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC gatory potential. If©anJones
long? Food needs for personnel? Bathroom individual has not been
needs? Media considerations? Budgetary trained to collect or document certain evidence,
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION they should not; instead, NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
they should rely upon
issues?). [National Forensic Science Tech-
nology Center. (2013).] experts to do so.
A brief, and by no means all-inclusive, list
The preliminary site survey should be con- of personnel who may be called upon to assist
ducted
© Jones & Bartlettin a cautious
Learning, and LLC
aware manner. This with the investigative
© Jones & Bartlett effort is given in
Learning, LLCthis
is a minimally invasive information-gathering section (TABLE 4.1).

TABLE LLC
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, 4.1 Personnel Associates with©Investigations
Personnel Function NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Crime Scene Police or civilian personnel who are specially trained to process a crime scene. Their
Investigator/Crime purpose is twofold: to collect and preserve physical evidence.
Scene Technician
Identification (ID)
Responsible for photographing the scene and searching for latent fingerprints but
NOT FOR
Officers SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT
not responsible for other types of physical evidence. Often, FOR
these SALE
individuals are OR DISTRIBUTION
fingerprint experts who later will perform comparative analyses.
Evidence
Police or civilian personnel responsible for maintaining the custodial integrity of
Technician
evidence. Duties and responsibilities typically include responding to and processing
crimeLLC
scenes, ensuring proper packaging© Jones & Bartlett
of collected Learning,
and submitted evidence, LLC
proper storage, maintaining the evidence FOR SALE
management OR
system DISTRIBUTION
to ensure proper chain
of custody, and also eventual disposal and purging of evidence.
Forensic Often used to provide an accurate architectural rendition of the crime scene.
Surveyors They typically utilize Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) to assist them with their
documentation efforts.
Forensic NOT (low
Specialized photography FOR SALE
light, OR DISTRIBUTION
aerial, infrared, underwater, etc.) demands specific
Photographers skills. These photographers have advanced training in photographic concepts and
specialized situations.
Forensic Scientist/ Has gained specialized training and education in chemistry and biology as applied to
Criminalist
© Jones & the recognition,
Bartlett ID, collection,
Learning, LLC and preservation of physical
© evidence.
NOT
Medical FOR SALE
Examiner/ ORpathologist
Forensic DISTRIBUTION NOT
responsible for performing autopsies FORcases.
in criminal SALEThisOR
may DISTRIBUTION
Coroner include providing an ID of the deceased; determining cause, manner, and time of
death; and taking custody of the remains.
Forensic Nurse Licensed nurse with specialized training in proper evidence collection, and most
© Jones & Bartlett often,LLC
Learning, is utilized in sexual assault investigations.
© JonesSuch nurses are usually
& Bartlett certifiedLLC
Learning,
sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE).
District Attorney When called upon, provides a search warrant or a court order to obtain known
specimens from a defendant. A district attorney may operate in an advisory capacity
when a case involves a police officer (e.g., a police-related shooting, in-custody death
of suspect, etc).
Hazardous Experts assist with recognition, collection, destruction, clean up, disposal, and
Materials
preservation of hazardous materials at the crime scene.
Specialists
Forensic Engineer who analyzes the structural integrity of a building or other structures in
Engineers accident investigations.
Firearms Expert who assists in crime scene ballistic recovery and can assess the trajectory
Examiners of fired weapons. He or she may also assist in determining whether a shooting was
accidental or intentional.
K-9 Officers
Sworn officer and trained dog may be called upon to assist with searches and
tracking of individuals; if the individual is believed to be dead or buried, cadaver dogs
may be © Jones
utilized. Cadaver dogs are specially trained&toBartlett Learning,
recognize the LLC
scent of decaying
remains. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Federal Authorities Numerous federal agencies can be called in to assist or take over a crime scene
involving mass disasters, terrorist acts, bombings, major fires, and bank robberies.
Some examples of these agencies include: the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI),
the Drug Enforcement & Bartlett
Administration Learning,
(DEA), the LLCTobacco Firearms
Bureau of Alcohol
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION and Explosives (ATF),
NOT and FOR
the United StatesOR
SALE Secret Service (USSS).
DISTRIBUTION

Crime Scene Photography 77
— Ripped from the Headlines —

Civilianizing Crime
© Jones
ability to hire and train civilians for spe-
& Bartlett
cific Learning, LLC efforts is more
crime scene processing
son neither needs a badge nor a gun to
identify, © Jonescollect,
document, & Bartlett Learning, LLC
and preserve
Scene Duties
NOT FOR SALE OR
easily DISTRIBUTION
accomplished than the required
training and education necessary to certify,
physical NOT FOR
evidence. SALE
In cases ORthere
where
is specific knowledge or certifications
DISTRIBUTION
There is movement afoot pertaining to hire, and train an officer. It also allows the required ( processing fingerprints, taking
crime scene processing duties and who is officers to be freed up to conduct the other photographs, documenting blood spat-
duties that the job calls for, which a civilian ter evidence, the additional training and
© Shutterstock/rzarek.
responsible for them. A growing number
of departments are finding that civilianiz- LLC
would not be able to handle. © Jones & Bartlett
education Learning,
previously LLC
given to sworn inves-
ing crime scene duties, (having nonsworn, The civilian positions are NOT
typically FOR SALE
tigative OR
personnel DISTRIBUTION
can instead be given to
nonbadge, nongun carrying individu- tasked with any situations where evi- civilians.
als) responsible for crime scene efforts is dence is being collected. However, it has Keep your eyes open for these changes
fiscally and strategically beneficial. The been increasingly recognized that a per- coming soon to a department near you!

Recording the Crime Scene Crime scene photography is visual storytelling,

and as such, the photographs should be a fair
The crime scene is first recorded through pho- and accurate representation of the scene about
tography or videography© Jones & Bartlett
or both. The video cam- Learning,
which theLLCstory is being told. © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT
era is a popular tool for FORcrime
recording SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
scenes. Photographs are almost universally NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
If used, this should be conducted either during accepted by the courts and allowed into evi-
or immediately after the preliminary scene sur- dence irrespective of their image quality as long
vey and before anything is touched, examined, as the images contained in them are not inflam-
or moved. The result is a permanent historical matory or prejudicial in nature (Weiss, 2009).
record© of
Jones
how the& Bartlett Learning,
scene appeared at the LLC
time Although it used to ©beJones & Bartlett
necessary Learning, LLC
for a person
of theNOT FOR SALE
documentation. OR anything
Moving DISTRIBUTION
prior to NOTasFOR
to also be able to testify SALE
to how ORwas
a photo DISTRIBUTION
recording the crime scene is a gross error, for a developed or processed, this is rarely the case
trial court will usually exclude any photograph nowadays, as the images themselves are not the
or videotape that does not reflect the scene as evidence but, rather, represent the evidence.
it was found. Photographers often may attempt to create
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones of
photographs & objects
Bartlett Learning,
or scenes LLCby
“as seen”
Crime Scene
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Photography someone else. Undoubtedly, this is an impos-
sible undertaking, as no one can accurately
Entire texts have been written solely on this document an item or moment as someone else
topic. This introduction comprises a succinct saw it. Instead, it is an appropriate step to docu-
but thorough overview of the purpose and ment the image or scene from the perspective
skills involved in crime scene &
© Jones photography.
Bartlett Learning, LLC in approximately the ©
of the viewer Jones
same posi-& Bartlett Learning, LLC
Photographers are urged to seek out books tion, although not at the same moment in time SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
and courses that will help them to continually (Weiss, 2009). Attention to a few simple rules
refine their skills. can make photos acceptable to most judges.
The purpose of crime scene photography is
to capture adequate images for the best possible
documentation and reproduction of the reality
Photographic Ranges
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC and Perspectives © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
present at the moment in time when the scene
was photographed. When attempting to shoot In keeping with the storytelling theme, the
precisely, one must remember that photogra- first photos taken at a scene should not be of
phy is a mechanical means of retaining vision. gore or an item of physical evidence. Instead,
When properly taken, a photograph is one of the they should be of the overall crime scene. They
only ways to capture
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLCan instant of time. How- © Jones
should set the&stage
Bartlett Learning,
for the beginning LLC
of the
ever, the camera was never intended to replace story. As such, there are three important ranges
vision, because it certainly cannot (Weiss, 2009). of photographs that are taken at the scene

Cityville Police Department

NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Case #: NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Date:
Location:
Photographer Name:
Photographer ID:
Roll # (if applicable):
FIGURE 4.4: Example of a photo placard.
NOT FORofSALE OR DISTRIBUTION
a crime: overall photographs, midrange/
in the scene at eye level. Their function is to
evidence-establishing photographs, and close- document the condition and layout of the scene
up/comparison/examination photographs. as it was found. They help eliminate issues of
Also, it is important to remember to take subsequent contamination (e.g., tracked blood,
photo placard
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLCa photograph of a photo placard as© Jones & movement
the first of items). Typically,
Bartlett Learning, LLC these are shot
A handwritten or photo taken at the crime scene. A photo plac- from the four corners of the crime scene. If
agency-developed NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
indoors, usually, they are taken from the cor-
ard is a handwritten or agency-developed sheet
sheet that lists (FIGURE 4.4) that lists pertinent case informa- ners of the room, shooting toward the center.
pertinent case
tion for the photographs to follow. Taking a If outdoors, they are often shot from the direc-
information for the
photo of this as the first photo on a roll of film tion of a cardinal heading (north, south, east,
photographs that
follow
or as © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC and west). These four
the first digital photo of a case will ensure photographs
© Jones most likely
that personnel are familiar with which photo- will capture the entire scene. If not, additional
graphs pertain to which case, and the name photographs from an appropriate vantage point
overall of the photographer. Only one case should be can be taken. These overall photographs set
photographs photographed on a roll of film; however, with the scene and should include street signs and
Photos that show today’s digital media, often, several (if not addresses, if possible. Also, it may be necessary
a large area of the to not only take
crime scene© atJones
eye
more) cases are photographed
& Bartlett Learning, LLC on a single dig- © Jones & overall photos
Bartlett facing theLLC
Learning, build-
ital media card prior to downloading onto a ing or scene in question but also overall photos
NOT
level, typically shot FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
computer. Photographing a photo placard will facing away from the scene to show the sur-
from the four cor-
ners of the scene; serve as a separator between the cases, so that rounding area.
used to document case photos will not become commingled.
the condition and Midrange/Evidence-Establishing
layout of the scene Overall Photographs Photographs
© Jones & Bartlett
Learning, LLC
Overall photographs (FIGURE 4.5) are©exposed
Jones & The
function of midrange photographs
as found
with a wide-angle lens or in suchNOT FOR SALE
a fash- OR DISTRIBUTION
(FIGURE 4.6) is to frame the item of evidence with
ion that allows the viewer to see a large area an easily recognized landmark. This visually
midrange
photographs
Photos that frame
the item of evidence © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
with an easily rec-
ognized landmark
to visually establish
its position in the
crime scene but not
intended to show
details; also called
evidence-establish- NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
ing photographs
FIGURE 4.5: Example of an overall photograph. FIGURE 4.6: Example of a mid-range photograph.
South Agency/Getty. Couperfield/Shutterstock.

Proper Use of Forensic Scales 79
establishes the position of the evidence in the of e vidence that will have a bearing on the
© Jones scene
in relation to the item’s surroundings. investigation. While there might be a variety
NOT FORThese
SALE ORofDISTRIBUTION
types photographs are the most over- NOT
of p FOR SALE
erspectives OR DISTRIBUTION
photographed, any photograph
looked in crime scene work. They are taken of taken at a crime scene will fall under one of
the evidence prior to movement or manipula- the preceding ranges. For instance, photographs
tion and should never include a scale of refer- taken from the reported position of a witness
ence in the photo. The evidence-establishing would fall into the overall range category. Those& Bartlett Learning, LLC
photograph is not intended to show details, but taken to show the address of a residence would
NOT
simply to frame the item withFOR SALE
a known OR DISTRIBUTION
landmark NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
fall into the mid-range category if they showed
in the scene. The close-up and the evidence- more than simply the numbers/letters and close-up
establishing photograph go hand-in-hand. included the façade of the house or entry to the photographs
home. However, if it were only of the letters/ Photos that clearly
Close-Up/Comparison/Examination show details on the
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC numbers, this photograph
Photographs
© Jones & Bartlett
would fall into Learning,
the LLC
item of evidence;
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION close-up range. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
The function of close-up photographs (also taken both with and
called comparison, examination, or macro without a scale that
photographs) is to allow the viewer to see
Proper Use of Forensic allows for a 1:1 ratio
all evident details on the item of evidence Scales reproduction
(FIGURE 4.7). This photo should be close and

© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC ©not
It is Jones
enough& Bartlett Learning,
for a photographer to LLC
simply
fill the frame with the evidence itself. They are
NOT FORtaken
with and without a scale. It is extremely makeNOT useFOR
of a SALE
scale of OR DISTRIBUTION
reference within a macro-
ABFO scale
important that photographs of this type are photograph (FIGURE 4.8). He or she must also
(Designed by the
first taken without a scale of reference and do so properly, or else it defeats the use of and American Board of
then with a scale of reference. The first photo intent behind the use of the scale of reference. Forensic Odontol-
shows the scene prior to contamination or In order for a scale to be of benefit, it must be ogy) An L-shaped
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, possibleLLCto determine the size and/or © Jones
dimen-& Bartlett Learning,
piece of plastic used LLC
manipulation by the photographer or crime
NOT FOR SALE
scene personnel. The second includes a scale OR DISTRIBUTION NOT
sion of the object(s) within the image. ForensicFOR SALE
in OR
forensic DISTRIBUTION
photog-
scales contain circles that will appear to elon- raphy. It is marked
of reference with which the viewer is able to
gate if photographed from an improper angle. with circles, black
gauge the size of the item presented within
and white bars, and
the photograph. This scale will allow for a Also, the lines representing termination of each
18% gray bars to
1:1 ratio reproduction of the photograph (i.e., centimeter can be extended to match up and
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC intersect with the©lines Jones & Bartlett Learning,
of the perpendicular
assist LLC
in distortion
1 inch equals 1 inch). Failure to photograph the compensation and
NOTwithout
close-up FOR SALE OR to
a scale prior DISTRIBUTION
incorporating centimeter intersectionNOTlines.
FOR SALE
If the linesOR DISTRIBUTION
do not to provide expo-
a scale in the photo could result in the photo meet and form a right angle, the photography sure determina-
being inadmissible because of the allegation of angle was not directly overhead or parallel to tion reference. For
scene tampering. the subject matter. measurements, the
The preceding photographic ranges are An ABFO scale is an example of a specific scales are marked in
© Jones &usedBartlett Learning,
any time there is LLC
an important item © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
type of forensic scale of reference (seen within millimeters.
FIGURE
© Jones & Bartlett4.7: Example of a close-up/comparison/examination
Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
photograph. FIGURE 4.8: Examples of forensic scales of reference.
© D. Willoughby/CMSP. Dutelle, A.W. (2015) Basic Crime Scene Photography, 2nd Ed.

NOT FORFIGURE
SALE4.9:
ORImproper
DISTRIBUTION
use of ABFO scale as to evidence NOT4.11:
FIGURE FORUseSALE
of props OR
to raiseDISTRIBUTION
ABFO scale to proper
plane and camera angle. plane.
Dutelle, A.W. (2015) Basic Crime Scene Photography, 2nd Ed. Dutelle, A.W. (2015) Basic Crime Scene Photography, 2nd Ed.
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION items of
NOT FOR SALE ORevidence exhibiting 3D
DISTRIBUTION characteris-
tics (Figures 4.9–4.11).
As displayed in the previous figures, some-
times it may be necessary to raise a scale of ref-
erence in order to have it be of correct use. The
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC opposite is also true.© InJones & Bartlett
the event Learning,
that there is LLC
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION impression evidence, NOT such as footwear
FOR SALE OR or tire
DISTRIBUTION
impressions, it will be necessary to arrange that
the scale be at the same plane as the impression.
Therefore, a small trench will need to be dug to
the same depth as the impression, (after pho-
tographing the&evidence
Bartlett Learning,
prior LLC
to disturbing the
NOT FORFIGURE
SALE4.10:
OR DISTRIBUTION
Proper use of ABFO scale as to plane and NOT FORand
surroundings) SALE OR of
the scale DISTRIBUTION
reference placed
camera angle (props used to raise scale). within the excavated area, ensuring that the scale
Dutelle, A.W. (2015) Basic Crime Scene Photography, 2nd Ed. of reference is present on the same plane as the
intended subject matter. This will result in the
greatest forensic benefit of the resulting image.
FIGURES 4.9–4.11). An ABFO (American
Board of Forensic Odontology) scale is an PhotoOR DISTRIBUTION
Logs
L-shaped piece of plastic used in photography Regardless of the perspective or range taken,
that is marked with circles, black and white each photograph taken at a crime scene should
photo log bars, and 18% gray bars to assist in distortion be documented on a photo log. A photo log is a
Recording of the compensation and provide exposure deter-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC permanent record of ©all
Jones & Bartlett
information Learning, LLC
pertaining
people involved, mination (Figure 4.9). For measurement, the to documentation by photographs. Department
equipment used,
plastic piece is marked in millimeters.
policy often dictates what is found within a
and conditions Note how the circles tend to look elongated photo log; however, if no policy exists, the
under which crime and elliptical as well as how the imaginary following suggestions are offered (FIGURE 4.12).
scene photographs
centimeter termination lines do not result in Information that should be included in a photo
were taken
© Jones & right angles.Learning, LLC
Bartlett log©includes:
However, simply being at the correct angle
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Title FOR
NOT SALE ORblock
and information DISTRIBUTION
consisting of
is not sufficient to count as proper use of a
date/time/case number/agency name
scale of reference. The scale must also be pres-
ent at the proper plane in order to be of the Photo equipment used
greatest benefit. If the scale is not presented Numerical ordering of each photo taken
at the proper
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC plane, there will be distortion
Brief description of each photo taken
present. This is especially important when
photographing impression evidence and Direction facing for each photo taken

Proper Use of Forensic Scales 81

Photograph List LLC Case # © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Code Section and Description NOTDayFORYearSALE
Month Page OR DISTRIBUTION
of
Location of Incident City Time
Victim’s Name DOB CDL

Photographer/ID # Scribe/ID # LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR
Camera, Lenses, and Flash Used
# Description of Photo Polar Tripod Lens Used (if Flash (yes/no & Direction F- SS Distance
Filter (Y or N) zoom, length normal, bounce, Facing Stop from
(Y or N) set on) or off camera) subject
© Jones 1& Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
2
NOT FOR3 SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
4
5
6
7

8
9
LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
10 NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
11
12
13
14
15
16 © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
17 NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
18
19
20
FIGURE 4.12: Example

© Jones of a photo log.
& Bartlett LLCLearning, © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Approximate distance from subject matter divided into categories for ease of recording
in each photo taken efforts.
Shutter speed, aperture setting, and ISO
© Jones & Bartlett
for each Learning, LLC
photo. If photographed with con- © Jones
Order & Bartlett
of Taking Learning, LLC
Photographs
ventional photography, pertinent photo- NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
While this manner of documentation is listed
graphic information should be included for
near the beginning, taking overall photos is
each. If photographs are taken in a digital
obviously much less intrusive to a crime scene
format, documenting such information is
than taking close-up photos (due to movement
not as imperative because it will be digitally
© Jones of itemsLLCand the addition of scales of refer-& Bartlett Learning, LLC
recorded when each photo is&taken
Bartlett Learning,
as part © Jones
ence). Therefore, it is important that you realize
of the digital file for each photo. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
that although these are listed together, not all
The photo log should be a documentation ranges of photographs are taken together or
of visual storytelling that flows from the gen- at the same time during a crime scene inves-
eral to the specific. The log itself is not always tigation. After the initial scene survey has been
constructed at the crime scene, but rather
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC conducted, but before a detailed&search
© Jones or exam-
the foregoing information will sometimes be ination is undertaken, the crime scene should
included on a rough copy of a photo log or be photographed. However, usually, this only
within the field notebook of the photographer includes the overall photographs, but if items
and transferred onto a photo sheet at a later of evidence have been located, mid-ranges can
time, to include information pertaining to the be taken from a safe position. Closeups are not
digital properties of
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLCeach photo, retrieved from typically
© Jonestaken &until a thorough
Bartlett searchLLC
Learning, of the
the camera or computer at the time of down- scene has been conducted, unless the item is
load. Most agencies use pre-printed log sheets of a transient nature.

Guidelines for Crime Scene© Jones & Bartlett

The subject matter should be parallel to
Learning, LLC
Photography the film plane/camera to eliminate distor-
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE tionOR DISTRIBUTION
caused by skewed angle photographs
The following strategies have proven useful in
(FIGURE 4.13)
crime scene investigations.
If in doubt, photograph it!
Always use a photo placard on the first shot
of each roll to demonstrate administrative
data (see Figure 4.4)
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Crime Scene Videography
Always use a crime scene photo log (see
As a result of digital media gaining widespread
Figure 4.12) acceptance within U.S. courts, in the last few
Document the entire scene in situ as soon years, videography has become a routine
as possible using overall photographs method of documenting major crime scenes.
While this is &anBartlett Learning,
obvious and LLC
useful method
Photograph all fragile evidence as soon as
NOT FOR SALE OR
possible DISTRIBUTION NOT
of providingFOR SALE
visual OR DISTRIBUTION
documentation of the con-
ditions and items encountered at the crime
In the documentation stage, photograph all scene, it is important to remember that doing
known evidence using closeup photos so is not a substitute for still photography. Each
As items are discovered in later stages, has its merits.
return and document them fully, including & Bartlett
Video Learning, LLC the scene in as
is taken to record
additional overall photographs, if needed FOR SALE
close OR
to its DISTRIBUTION
original condition as possible, as
this is an easy method to employ and is rela-
Create photographs that fully demonstrate
tively quick in its application. Often, video is
the results of additional examinations (e.g.,
shot while conducting the preliminary scene
latent prints, bloodstain pattern analysis,
survey as a way of recording the layout and con-
trajectory
© Jonesanalysis)
& Bartlett Learning, LLC ditions of the scene.©This Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
documentation is use-
NOT
Try not FOR SALE
to include OR DISTRIBUTION
the photographer or other ful to supervisors and NOT FOR SALE
investigative OR DISTRIBUTION
personnel in
people in the photographs, if possible determining logistic and equipment needs, as
Shoot all close-up photographs with the use
well as reducing official visitors by giving them
of a tripod the opportunity to look at the crime scene with-
out actually entering into it themselves. It also
© Jones &Bartlett
Close-upLearning,
photos should LLC
be taken with and © Jones
enables & Bartlett
investigative Learning,
personnel to later LLC
“enter”
NOT FOR SALE without
ORa DISTRIBUTION
scale of reference theNOT
sceneFOR SALE
as often OR DISTRIBUTION
as necessary through viewing
Be sure that the scale is on the same the video without the need for a search warrant.
plane as the item of evidence being This is especially useful if the crime scene is no
photographed longer available to personnel.
90°
Surface
FIGURE 4.13: Example of correct camera angle for close-up photographs.
Courtesy of Dana Gevelinger.

Searching the Crime Scene 83
Videography is a useful method for docu-

© Jones menting
& Bartlett Learning, LLC ©have an impact on the method chosen due
a crime scene. It can provide a per- to how they affect the scene and the per-
NOT FORspective
SALE that
OR isDISTRIBUTION
more easily understood and NOT FOR
sonnel SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
involved
perceived by the viewer than those offered by
Object being searched for. Obviously, a larger
notes, sketches, or still photographs. However, it
item will not entail the same level of search-
is important to remember that this is a supple-
ing detail as a smaller item (e.g., a handgun
mental method and not a replacement for still
versus a bullet) © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
photography or other documentation methods.
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOTsearch
Number of available personnel. Some FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Guidelines for Digital Video Recording methods are designed to incorporate a
a Crime Scene greater number of searchers in order to be
While some of these points are similar to those most effective. If such personnel are not
for photography, a few key points are important to available, a method that utilizes fewer per-
© Jones
remember when & Bartlett
shooting Learning,
a moving LLC
data stream: sonnel needs to©beJones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
considered.
NOT with
Begin
FORanSALE OR DISTRIBUTION
introductory placard that Terrain.
Obstructions (trees, buildings),
states case number, date, time, location, ground cover (asphalt, grass), and grade
and other pertinent case and chain of cus- (steep, flat) will all impact the type of
tody information method employed, as they will have a bear-
© Jones &Bartlett Learning,
This video LLC
should be a storytelling event. Start ©ing on the&ability
Jones of searchers
Bartlett Learning,to perform
LLC
the task, and the ability to properly locate
NOT FOR SALE
with aOR DISTRIBUTION
general view of the area surrounding NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
the necessary items of evidence.
the crime scene. Following this should be an
overview of the crime scene itself. It is a good Exigency. In cases of lost children, a search
idea to take overall photographsfrom the car- for a loaded handgun (public safety issue),
dinal compass directions (north, south, east, and other events, there is often the need
© Jones
west) for orientation purposes& Bartlett Learning, LLC that trumps the more
for exigency © Jones
detailed& Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR SALE
Turn off the audio on the digital recorder
OR search patterns that would beNOT
DISTRIBUTION FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
preferable.
Therefore, a quick and efficient method
unless you intend to narrate
should be chosen, making use of the maxi-
Do not move the camera too quickly by mum number of resources available in the
panning (moving side to side), or zooming quickest manner possible.
© Jones
(moving & aBartlett
in for Learning,
closeup view) LLC
as this results © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
in abrupt
NOT FORmotion
SALEand OR
bad focus
DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Unless in sunlight, always use a video
Swath Size
A swath is the effective area that a searcher
strobe. Never use a flashlight to illuminate swath
the scene. can cover while conducting a search. Swath is The effective area
affected by all of the aforementioned matters that a searcher can
Do not use the zoom unless it is necessary
because of an inability to get physically
and ©isJones
itself a & Bartlett
considerationLearning, LLC
in the determina- cover while conduct-
ing a search
NOT FOR SALE tion of the proper search
ORmethod to employ.
closerOR DISTRIBUTION
to the subject matter, or, if it is unsafe NOT FOR SALE DISTRIBUTION
If looking for a firearm, a larger swath would
to do so. The human eye cannot zoom. If the
be more possible in a parking lot than in high
video is to be a fair and accurate representa-
grass, for instance. Also, a search conducted at
tion of how the videographer observed the
night or in low light would affect the swath due
scene, no zoom should be used.
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC of a flashlight to illuminate
to the ability © Jones the& Bartlett Learning, LLC
Video never should be edited or altered in
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION area of responsibility. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
any manner following the initial taping. The
original copy should be kept as evidence,
Types of Crime Scene Search
and duplicate copies should be made for
viewing purposes.
Patterns
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC Depending on the©aforementioned Jones & Bartlett Learning,
factors, a LLC
variety of crime scene search patterns exists
NOT FOR SALE
Searching the Crime Scene OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
that can be employed at a crime scene. Regard-
less of the search pattern chosen, the crime
A variety of factors can affect a search method
scene investigator must be sure that the
and these will determine the best, most accu-
search is conducted in a systematic and thor-
rate way to approach the scene:
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC ough© Jones
manner.&This Bartlett Learning,
will ensure LLC
that all evi-
Environment. Environmental conditions, dence is properly located, documented, and
such as wind, rain, snow, heat, and cold will collected.

Start
lane/strip NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
search
FIGURE 4.15: Example of a line search.
A crime scene
search method that Courtesy of Dana Gevelinger.
End
begins at one corner
© Jones
of a search area & Bartlett
FIGURE 4.14:Learning, LLCsearch.
Example of a lane/strip © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
and continues to the
NOT
opposite corner, then
FOR SALE
Courtesy OR
of Dana DISTRIBUTION
Gevelinger. NOTnumber
a large FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
of searchers, incorporating the
reverses to search line method as described earlier and then turn-
again in a line per- ing 90° and performing a second line search
pendicular to the perpendicular to the original lane. While quite
original search line Lane/Strip Search time-consuming, this method allows the same
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & area
A lane/strip search pattern divides the scene
to be searched two separate times and at
into manageable lanes in which the searcher(s)FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
different angles. This redundancy will reduce
line search
proceed back and forth, in a slightly overlapping searcher boredom and will change the light-
A crime scene
fashion. This is similar to mowing a lawn. This ing and obstruction conditions present, thus
search pattern in
which searchers method is typically conducted by only one per- increasing the ability of the searchers to locate
assemble side by son. (See FIGURE 4.14.) evidence. (See FIGURE 4.16.)
side along a chosen
edge of the crime NOT
Line FOR
SearchSALE OR DISTRIBUTION Zone Search NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
scene and searchA line search is used when there are a large A zone search (also called a quadrant search) is
number of personnel available, often volun-
the area together, typically utilized in an area that is already bro-
teers. In this method, searchers assemble in a
maintaining a set ken up into defined or manageable zones (e.g.,
distance betweenline that runs along a chosen edge of the crime a house or car). It is typically used indoors but
© Jones
them as they &
walk Bartlett
scene. Learning,
Searchers stand side LLC
by side and spread may© be
Jones & Bartlett
used outdoors Learning,
if the areas are LLC
broken
NOT FORapart, SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
maintaining a manageable swath dis- NOT
down intoFOR SALE
defined zones.OR DISTRIBUTION
Zones can be searched
tance between each person. A search coordina- independently and later re-searched by different
zone search
A search method
tor should place him- or herself in the middle search personnel to ensure that no evidence has
typically used when of this line to make certain that everyone walks been overlooked. This method also can be used
there are previously forward in as straight a line as possible. as a way to break up a larger crime scene, so the
© Jones & Bartlett
defined zones or Learning,
If oneLLC
end begins to lag, the other © Jones
end is & search
Bartlett Learning,
coordinator LLCchoose from any of
can then
when a larger crime requested to slow down. At no NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
point should the search methods to cover a zone area. Some
scene needs to be anyone be encouraged to search faster! Keep- choose to assemble a grid from of this method,
divided into search ing all searchers in a straight line reduces the so it is often referred to as “gridding” an area,
zones; sometimes possibility of missing an area and thus not dis- which confuses it with the previously men-
referred to as “grid- covering potential evidence. This method is the tioned grid method. In this instance, an area to
ding” an area, but
most© Jones &employed
commonly Bartletttype Learning,
during anLLC
exi- © into
be searched is divided Jones & Bartlett
smaller Learning, LLC
squares, each
should not be con-
gent NOT
searchFOR
for anSALE OR DISTRIBUTION
item or person, especially NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
fused with the grid
method
when a large number of people are available.
(See FIGURE 4.15.)
grid search Grid Search

© Jones &
A crime scene A Bartlett
grid search Learning, LLC referred to as
is sometimes © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
search pattern in
NOT FORa
d ouble
SALE strip
OR or double lane
DISTRIBUTION method. In this NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
which an area is method, a lane is searched in one direction,
searched in one similar to the lane search method. However, at
direction, then the the lane’s terminus, a 90° direction change is Start
searcher(s) turn
made and another lane is searched. This can End
90° and search the
© Jones same
& Bartlett
area from a Learning, LLC
either occur © Jones
through the use of two searchers & Bartlett Learning, LLC
(one responsible for one direction andNOTthe other FIGURE 4.16: Example of a grid search.
different angle FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
for the perpendicular direction), or it can u
tilize Courtesy of Dana Gevelinger.

Sketching and Mapping the Scene 85

1A 2A LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION B NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
3A 4A
C D
FIGURE 4.17: Example of a zone/quadrant search. FIGURE 4.18: Example of a circle/spiral search.
Courtesy of Ellie Blazer. Courtesy of Dana Gevelinger.
of which is further subdivided into four smaller there will be exceptions. Large-area searches
squares. The search begins in the northernmost in mass-disaster investigations may have to
part of the smaller squares and progresses as sacrifice some quality for expedience, but in the
one would read a book until the grid has been average investigation, there is no excuse for hap-
© Jones & Bartlett
examined Learning,
completely. (SeeLLC
FIGURE 4.17.) © Jones
hazard & Bartlett
searches. Learning,
Proceed slowly, LLC
for evidence
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION notNOT FOR
only can be SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
contaminated by being stepped
Circle/Spiral Search on but can be destroyed easily or overlooked
A circle search (also called a spiral search) is a entirely by the unwary. An experienced inves- circle search
specialized search pattern method that is sel- tigator will have completed the walk-through A specialized search
dom utilized; however, it does have its useful- pattern method
before beginning the search, and the preliminary
in which search-
ness and merit. In this © Jones & Bartlett Learning,
method, searchers can LLC must be conducted with
scene survey © trace
Jones evi-& Bartlett Learning, LLC
ers can either start
either start at a defined outer
NOT boundary
FOR SALE andORcir- DISTRIBUTION
dence foremost in the investigator’sNOTmind.FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
at a defined outer
cle or spiral in toward the defined critical point, Important things to remember when con- boundary and circle
or they can begin at the critical point and circle ducting a search are: or spiral in toward
or spiral outward toward the crime scene perim- the defined critical
Do not touch, handle, or move evidence
eter. However, physical obstructions and barri- point or begin at the
ers in©the
Jones & Bartlett
scene will Learning,
present problems withLLC
this © Jones
Mark or designate found&items
Bartlett Learning,
without criticalLLC
point and cir-
method. This method is typically employed in altering them
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION cle or spiral outward
bomb or explosive scenes with a defined seat Found evidence must be documented before
toward the crime
of explosion. It may be used in underwater or scene perimeter;
any evidence can be moved or collected
open-water searches where there was a last see spiral search
known location for an item, vessel, or victim.
Sketching and Mapping
If using
© Jones & a circling
Bartlett rather than
Learning, LLCa spiraling pat- the Scene © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
tern, to ensure thoroughness, it is suggested
NOT FORthat
a central point and an effective swath
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION spiral search
A search method
width be determined. Once this is done, search- Sketching that involves moving
ers should move out in concentric circles, often A crime scene sketch is a permanent record of in an ever-tightening
using a lanyard affixed to a point at the center the size and distance relationship of the crime or ever-expanding
of the scene. The searchers proceed to search spiral; it can be used
scene and © Jones
the physical evidence within it. The& Bartlett Learning, LLC
indoors or out
in a 360° manner, around the central point, and
sketch serves to clarify the special information
once they reach the end of their circuit, they let that is present in the photographs and video
out the lanyard a predetermined amount, using documentation, because the other methods do
a manageable swath width, and then proceed not allow the viewer to easily gauge distances crime scene
to conduct another 360° circuit of the scene. and dimensions. A sketch is the most simplistic sketch
It is ©
suggested
Jones that this newLearning,
& Bartlett circuit be inLLC
the manner in which to©present
Jonescrime& Bartlett Learning,
scene layout LLCdrawing
A measured
opposite direction of the previous circuit both showing the loca-
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION and measurements. NOT FOR
Often, SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
photographer/cam-
tion of all important
to reduce the possibility of entanglement and to era positions may also be noted in a sketch.
reduce the searcher’s vertigo issues from walk- items, landmarks,
Why is a sketch important to crime scene
ing in a continuous circle. (See FIGURE 4.18.) permanent fix-
documentation? tures, and physical
The physical nature of a crime scene will
It accurately portrays the physical facts evidence at a crime
suggest
© Jones & whatLearning,
Bartlett type of search
LLCis best to employ, © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC scene
NOT FORbut the characteristics of the scene should have
SALE OR DISTRIBUTION It relates to the sequence of events at the
no effect on the quality of the search. Obviously, scene

It establishes the precise location and rela- Sketch the entire scene, the objects, and the
tionship of objects and evidence at the evidence
scene NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Two types of sketches are produced with regard
It helps to create a mental picture of the
to crime scene documentation: rough sketches
rough sketch scene for those not present and final/finished sketches. Rough sketches
A draft sketch are developed while on scene, typically during
It is a permanent record of the scene
prepared while on © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC the crime scene assessment/preliminary
© Jones & Bartlettscene Learning, LLC
scene, typically It usually is admissible in court
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION evaluation phase toNOT assistFOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
with development of
during the pre-
It assists in interviewing and interrogating a strategic plan for processing. The sketch is not
liminary evaluation,
that is not done to It assists in preparing the written investi- done to scale, can be drawn with any implement
scale, is artistically gative report (crayon, chalk, pencil, pen, etc.), and is very
crude, and is used rough, artistically. As work progresses at the
© Jones &Bartlett
to record measure-
It assistsLearning, LLC
in presenting the case in court. © Jones
crime & sketch
scene, the Bartlett
will Learning, LLC
include not only the
Well-prepared sketches and drawings help
NOT FOR SALE
ments and distances OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
crude crime scene layout but also will be used to
at the scene judges, juries, witnesses, and others to visu-
record measurements of items and structures,
alize the crime scene.
and distances among items. (See FIGURE 4.19.)
When should sketches be made? A final sketch (see FIGURES 4.20 and 4.21)
final sketch
Sketch all serious crimes and accident is a finished rendition of the rough sketch. It
© Jones & Bartlett
Finished rendition of Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
a rough sketch that scenes after photographs have been taken is usually prepared for courtroom presenta-
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION and before anything is moved
NOT FOR SALE
tion and
OR DISTRIBUTION
often will not show all measurements
shows only pertinent
items of evidence,
usually prepared for
courtroom pre-
sentation; typically
includes a legend
FIGURE 4.19: Example of a rough sketch.
Courtesy of Sarah Bedish.

© Jones FIGURE
& Bartlett 4.20: Learning,
Example of a finalLLC
hand-drawn sketch. © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FORCourtesy
SALE OR
of Sarah DISTRIBUTION
Bedish. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
and distances originally recorded on the rough Case information (i.e., date, time, place, case
sketch. Only significant items and structures are number)
typically present in a final sketch. A final sketch Initials/name (person who drew the sketch)
is either produced in© Jones
ink or on a&computer,
BartlettinLearning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
a manner that is notNOT able to be modified (i.e., Indication of direction (e.g., north)
FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
not in pencil!). The sketch should be clutter-free Scale (e.g., 1 inch = 1 foot)
and should accurately depict all pertinent items
Measurement table (i.e., if measurements
of evidence, typically using an accompanying
are not represented within the confines
legend. A legend is a note of explanation, out- legend
of the sketch, an accompanying measure-
side ©of Jones & area,
the sketch Bartlett
whichLearning,
relates to aLLC
spe- © Jones & Bartlett Learning,
A noteLLC
of explana-
ment table should be included to explain
cific NOT FOR SALE
item, symbol, OR DISTRIBUTION
or information contained in NOT FOR SALE OR tion that defines or
DISTRIBUTION
the distances and measurements associ- labels specific infor-
the graphic representation of a sketch. A final
ated with it) mation in a sketch
sketch should include:
A notation following the scale or measure-
Title (What does the sketch represent? For
ment table stating that all measurements
example, Sketch of Bank ABC Robbery)
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC ©are
Jones & Bartlett
approximate. Learning,
This will LLC
ensure that the
Legend (What do symbols in the sketch sketch’s author does not get into a credibil-
mean?) ity argument in court that a measurement

15,0000
3,0000 SHELVES
2,0000
5,4654
4,0000
2,5000

10,1066 LLC © Jones
CHAIR & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION B NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
2,0000
10,0000 2,0000
2,0000
6,0000
CHAIR
6,0000
7,2506
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC 2,0000
A © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT DESK
FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
2,0000
4,0000
7,5685
5,0000
N 3,0000 2,0000 5,0000 2,0000 3,0000
Officer’s Name
KEY OR DISTRIBUTION
Case #: 12-003-86
Date: 09-11-08
A = Jacket Time: 5:45pm
B = Holster Location: 1240 N. 2nd Street
*All measurements are approximate.
FIGURE 4.21: Example of a final computer-generated sketch.

Modified©from
Jones
an original & Bartlett
LLC
illustration Learning,
by Alex Albright. © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
is documented as the listed measurement and (3) the three-dimensional (3D) view (see
but could, in fact, be greater or lesser due to FIGURE 4.24). Sometimes, people choose
rounding errors or other factors. to incorporate several perspectives in a
sketch (e.g., using both elevation and over-
Three different crimeLLC
scene perspectives © Jones
head sketches&toBartlett
draw anLearning,
exploded orLLCcross-
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION(1) the bird’s-
can be represented in a sketch: NOT FOR
sectional SALE
view of ORsee
a scene; DISTRIBUTION
FIGURE 4.25).
eye or overhead view (see FIGURE 4.22), (2) An overhead or bird’s-eye view is the most
the elevation or side view (see FIGURE 4.23), common form of crime scene sketching. It is
13'
N LLC
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION end
24''
table
24'' (3
(3) 60''
bed
dresser
(4
4)
(4) 24'' NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
13' (5)
(7)
(6) Legend
(1)© (1) .40 cal shell casing
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC Jones(2)&.40Bartlett Learning, LLC
cal Glock handgun
(3) Victim
(4) Blood pool
(5) .40 cal shell casing
(2) 30'' (6) Bullet hole in glass
(7) Bullet hole in glass
All measurements are approximate.
FIGURE 4.22: Example of an overhead/bird’s-eye view sketch.

13'
9' 40''
NOT FOR SALE80'' OR DISTRIBUTION24''
Legend NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
30'' (A) Bullet hole in glass
(B) Bullet hole in glass
A B
FIGURE 4.23: Example of an elevation/side-view sketch.
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC13' © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
60''
dres
ser
30''
(3)
end 13'
24'' © Jones
table & Bartlett
80'' Learning,
40'' LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
bed
NOT
24'' FOR SALE OR 20''DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
(4) (5)
80''
80'' (7) (1)
(6) 60''
(2)
LLC 30'' © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Legend
(2) .40 cal Glock handgun
N (3) Victim
40''
(4) Blood pool
9'' (5) .40 cal shell casing
All measurements are approximate. (6) Bullet hole in glass
Not drawn to scale. (7) Bullet hole in glass
© Jones & Bartlett

FIGURE 4.24: Learning,
Example of a 3D crime LLCscene sketch. © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FORModified
SALE OR
from an DISTRIBUTION
original illustration by Alex Albright. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
repared as though its author were looking

p of doing this). Eliminate all unnecessary detail
down on the scene from above. This type of
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, from the sketch, and include only ©
LLC items nec-& Bartlett Learning, LLC
Jones
view shows the floor layout but cannot represent essary for locating evidence and establishing
heights of items or show associated evidence on scene parameters.
walls. In order to show such information, a per- To be useful, a crime scene sketch must
son must use an elevation or side-view sketch contain accurate measurements. Artistic con-
to show evidence located on a building facade or tent is not a concern. All measurements should
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC be made from permanent
interior wall, or any item for which height is an © Jones & Bartlett
objects. Learning, LLC
For indoor
important aspect (e.g., death involving a hang- sketches, walls, doorframes, window frames,
ing). A 3-D crime scene perspective is created and corners serve well as anchors for measure-
with the aid of computers. Its primary function ments. For outdoor sketches, buildings, utility
is crime scene activity reconstruction—that is, to poles, roadways, and, less optimally, trees are
help explain what happened and in what order. generally reliable. Keep in mind that anything to
Everything that is included in the sketch © Jones
which & Bartlett
a measurement Learning,
is anchored mustLLC
with-
must be located geographically (measuring dis- stand the vagaries of time. The trial may occur
tance from permanent features is one method years after the offense.

13'
N
9'
30''
NOT FOR SALE
24'' ORendDISTRIBUTION
table
24'' NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
24''
bed (3) 60'' 60''
dresser
(4) 20'' 20''

© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC(7) © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
13'
(5)
80''
(6)
(1)
40''
80''
(2)
& Bartlett Learning,
30'' LLC
9'
Legend
(2) .40 cal Glock handgun
(3) Victim
(4) Blood pool
All measurements are approximate.
FIGURE 4.25: Example of a cross-sectional/exploded sketch.

Crime scene templates are available for types of mapping methods utilized for crime
NOT FORmany
different types of crime scenes. Once the
scene sketching and mapping are (a) baseline,
crime scene has been measured and those mea- (b) rectangular coordinate, (c) triangulation, and
surements are transferred to a sketch, those (d) polar/grid coordinate.
measurements will be used in reconstructing a
more elaborate and architecturally correct dia- Baseline Mapping LLC
gram. Very little sophistication is required to use This is the most basic—and least accurate—
these templates, but a professional end NOT FOR SALE
product OR DISTRIBUTION
form of crime scene mapping. For this method,
is possible. a baseline is developed or identified from which
to conduct measurements. This can be an exist-
Crime Scene Mapping ing area, such as the edge of a roadway, a wall,
baseline © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC or fence; or it can be
Mapping is the term associated with crime developed
© Jones by personnel,
Arbitrary line of scene measurements. Sometimes, a person such as by placing a string or tape measure
some measurable
may sketch but not map, meaning that he or through the scene and conducting measure-
distance drawn she draws a sketch of an area but does not ments from there. In the case of the latter, the
between two fixed apply measurements to the sketch produced line should be run between two known fixed
points; also, a con-
and items represented. Rarely, however, will points, such as trees or other identifiable items,
struction method
one map without sketching (i.e., record mea- so ©that the points
Jones can be Learning,
& Bartlett found in theLLCfuture
used to geographi-
surements with no graphic representation for and the scene can be reconstructed, if neces-
cally locateNOT
evidence FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
what the measurements represent). Sometimes, sary. Once the baseline is established, measure-
this step is referred to as measuring. There are a ments are taken from it at an approximate 90°
variety of methods for mapping a crime scene, angle from the baseline to a point on the iden-
mapping depending on whether the crime scene is an tified item or area of the crime scene. Typically,
The term associated
© Jones with
& Bartlett
crime scene
Learning, LLC
interior or exterior scene. As this is © Jones & most
an intro- measurements
Bartlett Learning, areLLC
made either to center
ductory text, only the most basic and most mass of the item or to the nearest point of the
NOT FOR measurements
often used methods are covered here. The basic item to the baseline. Because it is impossible to

A
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC N © Jones & Bartlett Learning, NLLC
2' NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
3'
6.5'
4'
11 ft
5'
6'
7' 5.5'
8' 8.7 ft
B
Rectangular Method
FIGURE 4.26: Example of the baseline mapping technique.
FIGURE 4.27: Example of the rectangular coordinate
Courtesy of Dana Gevelinger. technique.
ensure that the measurement was taken at 90°, t riangulation is quite a bit more laborious triangulation
the possibility exists that the measurement will and time-consuming than other methods, it is Basic measurement
be longer if the measurement was more than worth the effort because it is sufficiently more technique used for
© Jones & Bartlett
90° from the baseline or if it was less than 90° Learning,
accurate LLC
than the aforementioned © Jones
methods of& Bartlett Learning,
geographically locat- LLC
ing evidence; in this
NOT FOR SALE
from the baseline. For this reason, this method OR DISTRIBUTION
mapping. The accuracy for this NOT
method FOR
comes SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
technique, three
is not as accurate as some of the other methods; from its foundation: two fixed points. From
angles are mea-
however, it is quick and extremely easy to use. these two fixed points, measurements are
sured—those of a
(See FIGURE 4.26.) taken to specified points on an item or within triangle formed by
the crime scene. There is no need to worry the item of interest
© Jones &
Rectangular Bartlett Learning,
Coordinate Mapping LLC © Jones &
about whether measurements Bartlett
have been madeLearning, LLC
and two permanent
NOT FORcoordinate
The rectangular SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
mapping method is NOTthe
at a right angle because FOR SALE
points deriveOR from DISTRIBUTION
objects (fixed points)
a slightly more accurate variation of the base- a known fixed point, such as the corner of a
line method because it utilizes two such base- room or the edge of a doorframe. From these
lines instead of one. Two measurements are fixed points, a minimum of two measurements
taken to a point on an item or location at the are made to each identified point. If the object
© Jones & Bartlett
scene: Learning,
one from LLC baseline. Some
each identified has©aJones
fixed or&constant
Bartlettshape Learning, LLC
(e.g., a firearm
personnel choose
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION to measure to two or more or NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
item of furniture), the object is measured
points on an item, using multiple rectangular to two points, from the two fixed points, for a
measurements as a way of increasing accuracy, total of four measurements. If the object has a
while others simply choose to measure to an variable shape or size (e.g., a puddle of water,
arbitrarily identified center mass of the object pool of blood, or pile of clothes), the object is
in question or point © to Jones & Bartlett Learning,
which measurements measured LLC to an approximate center © Jones
of mass.& Bartlett Learning, LLC
are being taken. As with the baseline method, it
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION (See FIGURE 4.28.) NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
cannot be determined that such measurements
are taken precisely at 90° angles from the base- Polar/Grid Coordinate Mapping
line, so there exists a greater possibility of errors Utilizing polar coordinates is the fourth method
than with some of the other methods. However, of crime scene mapping used to document evi-
© Jones
because & Bartlett
this method uses twoLearning,
measurements, LLC it dence location at a© Jones
crime scene. & Like
those pre-
NOTgreater
has much FOR accuracy
SALE OR thanDISTRIBUTION
the single base- viously mentioned, this is a two-dimensional
line method. This method is especially useful (2D) system that indicates the location of an
in confined spaces and smaller interior scenes. object by providing the angle and distance from
(See FIGURE 4.27). a fixed or known point. Obviously, in order to
conduct measurements by this method, a tran-
Triangulation Mapping
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC sit ©orJones
compass & is
Bartlett
necessary Learning,
to measure LLC the
This is the most accurate method that does angles and polar directions. This method is best
not make use of advanced technology. While utilized in large outdoor scenes with very few

© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © NJones & and are extremely useful in mapping large-scale
scenes and events.
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE GPSORis aDISTRIBUTION
satellite-based navigation sys-
tem comprising a network of 24 satellites that
have been placed in Earth’s orbit by the U.S.
Department of Defense (Garmin, 1996–2011).
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC GPS was originally©used Jonesby and intended Learning,
& Bartlett for LLC
the military; however, in the 1980s, the govern-
1 2 ment made the technology available for civil-
ian use. The benefit of GPS is that it works in
any weather condition, anywhere in the world,
17.5 ft 17.0 ft
24 hours a day. There are no subscription fees
or setup charges& Bartlett Learning,
to utilize GPS. LLC
These satellites
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION18.5 ft 18.75 ft complete two very precise
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION orbits of Earth per
A B day, during which they transmit signal infor-
1 (17.5A, 18.75B) 2 (18.5A, 17.0B) mation. GPS receivers gather these signals and
then use triangulation to calculate the user’s
FIGURE 4.28: Example of the triangulation coordinate
location. A GPS receiver must be locked onto
technique.
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & the
Bartlett
positionLearning,
signal of at LLC
least three satellites
in orderOR DISTRIBUTION
to calculate a 2D position (latitude and
longitude) and track movements of an object.
If the GPS receiver is able to lock onto four or
landmarks (e.g., a plane crash in a forest or large more satellites, the receiver can determine the
field). [See FIGURE 4.29] user’s 3D location (latitude, longitude, and alti-
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC tude), along with object © Jones & Bartlett
movement. Learning, LLC
The more
Advanced Mapping Techniques
Some departments may have the ability to bet- satellites the GPS NOT
is FOR
locked SALE
onto, the OR DISTRIBUTION
greater
ter utilize modern technology, such as a global the accuracy of the position. Once the user’s
global
positioning positioning system (GPS), Total Stations, and position has been determined, calculation of
system (GPS) 3-D crime scene mapping systems, which are movement can provide GPS users with the abil-
A device that uses mapping systems that can take measurements ity to record information, such as speed, bear-
satellites to© Jones &
compute Bartlett Learning, LLC
in polar coordinates and then convert the mea-
©track,
ing, Jones trip & Bartlett
distance, Learning,
distance LLC
to destination,
NOT
position FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
surements into grid coordinates. The benefit of NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
sunrise, sunset, time, and much more (Garmin,
these technologies is that they are able to pro- 1996–2011).
vide precise electronic distance measurements How accurate is GPS? In most cases, com-
mercially available GPS receivers are accurate
to approximately 12 yards, with higher-end
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & units
Bartlett Learning,
capable of accuracy LLC in the 3- to 5-yards
range. This is sufficiently accurate for large
N
crime scenes that have no known or fixed land-
marks. A GPS reading is typically used to “mark”
a known point, and then measurements are
made from that location, thereby ensuring that
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC any measurements© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
taken will all be “off” by the
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION same amount because NOTthey FOR all SALE OR
originate DISTRIBUTION
from
the same location.
A Total Station is an electronic surveying
instrument that has an integrated computer
ft
and can measure angles in the horizontal and

19.5
vertical planes, utilizing a laser rangefinder

NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION 70° NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
instead of the more archaic method of a manual
tape measure. This is especially useful because
changes in elevation are difficult to measure
A B
and depict on a crime scene sketch. The Total
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Station
Bartlettis capable
Learning,of recording
LLC evidence posi-
FIGURE 4.29: Example of the polar coordinate technique. tions in three dimensions, thus simplifying this
Courtesy of Dana Gevelinger. otherwise complicated situation.

Crime Scene Measurements in Court 93
Within the past several years, several ven-

© Jones dors
(i.e., Panoscan and Leica) have developed
NOT FOR3-D,
panoramic crime scene photography and NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
mapping systems. (FIGURE 4.30) “This results
in a 3D representation of the scene from which
any measurement can be made even after the
scene has been released” (Leica, 2015). This
enables such technology to be utilized for
pre-event planning, crime scene documenta-
tion, and postevent analysis. Another benefit
of this new technology is that it is capable of
accurate crime scene documentation efforts in
both bright sunshine and total darkness, often
at a distance of up to 900 feet.
Crime Scene Measurements

in Court
NOT FORAsSALE
with allOR DISTRIBUTION
other crime scene measurements, all NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
measurements are approximate and are never
documented as or testified to as being 100%
FIGURE 4.30: Example of 3D crime scene scanning
accurate. Crime scene mapping is about pro- equipment.
ducing the best possible documentation with
Courtesy of Leica Geosystems.
© realizing
the resources available, Jones & Bartlett
that Learning,
rounding LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT
and other factors inhibit theFOR SALE
ability OR DISTRIBUTION
to be com- NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
pletely accurate. Q: Are you personally familiar with the objects
A crime scene sketch is of little value if it and locations contained in the diagram?
cannot be admitted at the time of trial. As in A: Yes.
the case of photos and audio recordings, there Q: Is this a fair and accurate representation
© Jones evidentiary
is a particular & Bartlettfoundation
Learning,(predi-
LLC of the [search ©site,
Jones & Bartlett
recovery Learning, LLC
site, location
cate)NOT FORbeSALE
that must OR DISTRIBUTION
established in order to use of evidence found]NOT FOR as youSALE OR DISTRIBUTION
recall it?
sketches, maps, or diagrams: A: Yes.
Q: Is this diagram drawn to scale?
Q: Did you participate in the preparation of A: No.
the diagram that you have identified as
© Jones State’sLearning,
& Bartlett Exhibit Number
LLC2? ©Generally,
Jones & it is easier toLearning,
Bartlett testify aboutLLCa dia-
A: Yes. gram that is not drawn to scale. Defense lawyers
—© Jones
Ripped
& Bartlett from the Headlines
Learning, LLC —& Bartlett Learning, LLC
© Jones
Using Drones to One of the most impactful bene- a scene, will be possible. Also, due to the
fits of the use of drone technology is the current technology, the photos are able to
Map Crime Scenes area to move around (above) the crime be digitally stitched together to provide a
any- 3D&virtual map ofLearning,
the crime scene, from
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, scene, LLC without touching or disturbing
© Shutterstock/rzarek.
© Jones Bartlett LLC

The day may soon come when investiga- thing within the scene. As the technology nearly every angle. This allows for inves-
tors, and those tasked with processing crime improves, the ability to hover and stabilize tigators (and even the jury) to be able to
scenes, will be making use of unmanned a drone, while taking the necessary clo- move around the scene freely, without ever
aerial vehicles, often termed “drones,” as a seup, midrange, and overall photographs, having been to the scene or having dis-
way of conducting 3D mapping of the area. which are required to properly document turbed anything within the scene.


NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION INVESTIGATOR’S
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION © Shutterstock/Janaka Dharmasena.
NOTEBOOK
Elements of a Crime Scene Sketch
A scene identifier. That identifier, placed in the title box, should be either the case number or a recog-
nizable title associated with the offense being investigated. NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
Descriptive words identifying where the scene is situated
The date of the original sketch (rough sketch)
The name of the investigator and the person who drew the sketch, even if they are one and the same
A written
NOT FOR SALE OR statement indicating the drawing’s scale or noting
DISTRIBUTION NOTtheFOR
absence
SALEof scale
OR DISTRIBUTION
A directional rosette (an arrow showing which direction is north). In orienting the drawing, it is generally
presumed that north is up.
evidence ever taken anywhere. Commercial
may focus on minuscule measurement errors
evidence tags and labels are available and pro-
to try to undermine the credibility of the entire
vide places for entering pertinent information.
diagram. Reasonable approximations are much
Once bagged and tagged, the evidence must
easier to defend. However, if all measurements
be transported to ©
are linked to a permanent landmark that was
Jones
the police & Bartlett
evidence Learning, LLC
room.
NOT
located FOR
on the SALE
diagram OR
with theDISTRIBUTION NOT FOR SALE
As mentioned in the chapter on chain of cus-
aid of surveying OR DISTRIBUTION
tody, every moment of the existence of a piece
instruments, having a scale drawing may not be
a problem. of evidence must be accounted for once that
piece of evidence has been seized. Appropriate
© Jones & Collecting,

Bartlett Learning,Handling,
LLC
documentation will deflect any suggestion that
the©evidence
Jones in & question
BartletthasLearning, LLC
been misplaced,
NOT FORand Preserving
SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Evidence NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
manipulated, or replaced. It is the evidence
custodian’s responsibility to ensure that any
After an intensive crime scene search and
access to evidence placed in storage is legiti-
documentation, collection and preservation
mate and documented.
of evidence should begin. The objective of all
The following guidelines should be adhered
criminal investigations is to discover the truth
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & to Bartlett
in orderLearning,
to ensure the LLCmost thorough and
through the gathering of evidence in a foren-
sically sound and constitutionally permissible
FOR SALE
accurate OR DISTRIBUTION
investigation:
manner—presuming that the determination Designate one person as the evidence col-
has been made that a crime has, in fact, been lector/custodian (this ensures that nothing
committed. Evidence is of little value if it has is missed)
been handled, tagged, or stored improperly.
Document, collect, package,&mark,
seal, and
Once each item of evidence has been photo-
graphed and included in a crime scene sketch,
preserve NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
it must be collected, preserved, transported, Collect all transient, fragile, or easily lost
and stored. Improperly collected, preserved, evidence first
transported, or stored evidence will be inad- Use paper, which is the preferred packaging
missible at trial once
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC the defense discovers any
© Jonesitems
Package & Bartlett Learning, LLC
separately
improprieties.
The handling and packaging of evidence
NOT FOR SALE OR
Properly mark containers.
DISTRIBUTION
is a lengthy subject. Each item of evidence at Properly seal containers
the scene should be placed in an appropriate
Mark seals with initials, date, and time
container, which should be tagged to iden-
tify it andLLC
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, differentiate it from all other evi- & Bartlett
© Jones In all Learning,
crashes, theLLC specter of a human-
dence taken at the scene as well as all other caused explosion hovers. All clothing, personal

Collecting, Handling, and Preserving Evidence 95
© Jones &CASE IN POINT

Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
© Shutterstock/Viastas.
Large Crime Scenes
On April 19, 1995, at 9:03 am CST, calls were received by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Authority
Oklahoma City that a bomb had been detonated in the Alfred Murrah Federal Building. EMS ambulances,
police, and firefighters© hadJones
already &beenBartlett Learning, LLC
dispatched. © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
The State Emergency NOT Operations
FOR SALE Center was
ORsetDISTRIBUTION
up, including personnel from military, civil defense,
and public safety along with the responding fire and police services. The governor called out the Oklahoma
National Guard and members of the Department of Civil Emergency Management. Within the first hour, 50
people were rescued from the Murrah building. By the end of the day, more than 180 survivors were being
treated at hospitals around the city. The last survivor, a 15-year-old girl, was found under the base of the col-
© Jones
lapsed building. & Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Three FOR
NOT hundred and fiftyOR
SALE tonsDISTRIBUTION
of rubble were removed from the site each day NOT until FOR
April 29. All of the
debris was examined for body parts, explosive residue, and detonators. Canine units searched for sur-
vivors and located bodies among the building refuse. Rescue and recovery efforts were concluded on
May 4, with the bodies of all but three victims recovered. For several days after the building’s demolition,
trucks hauled 800 tons of debris a day away from the site. Some of the debris was used as evidence in
© Jones & the trials
Bartlett Learning,
of the conspirators. LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
NOT FOR SALE It is OR
important to understand that the bomb blast to theNOT
DISTRIBUTION MurrahFOR
building was not
SALE OR devastating by itself;
DISTRIBUTION
it just so happened that the blast was located at a critical point that undermined the whole structure of
the building. Most of the damage and a vast majority of the fatalities were caused by the collapse of the
building.
The FBI was on the scene immediately, because the building was under federal jurisdiction. Agents
found a truck axle with© Jones
a vehicle & Bartlett
identification Learning,
number (VIN). It was LLC
determined that the explosion had © been
contained in a 1993 Ford NOT truckFOR
ownedSALEby RyderOR
Rentals of Miami, Florida. Ryder Rentals informed NOT
DISTRIBUTION the FBI FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
that the truck was assigned to a rental company known as Elliot’s Body Shop in Junction City, Kansas. The
FBI interviewed a rental agent at Elliot’s Body Shop in Junction City on April 19, 1995. The individual who
signed the rental agreement provided his name, Social Security number, South Dakota driver’s license, a
South Dakota home address, and a destination in Omaha; the FBI’s investigation determined that all of the
© Jones
information was & Bartlett Learning, LLC
false. © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
On April
NOT FOR 20, 1995,
SALE the rental agent was contacted again and assisted in theNOT
OR DISTRIBUTION creation
FORof a composite
drawing. On the same day, agents interviewed three witnesses who were near the scene of the explosion
prior to the detonation. The witnesses were shown a copy of the composite drawing and identified him as
the person they had seen in front of the Murrah building. The composite drawing was shown to employ-
ees at various motels and commercial establishments in the Junction City area. Employees of the Dream-
© Jones & land
Bartlett
Motel inLearning, LLC
Junction City told © composite
agents that the individual in the Jones & Bartlett
drawing Learning,
had been LLC
a guest at the
motel from April 14 through April 18, 1995. This individual had registered at the motel under the name of
Timothy McVeigh, listed his automobile as bearing an Oklahoma license plate with an illegible plate number,
and provided a home address on North Van Dyke Road in Decker, Michigan; he drove a car described as a
1970 Mercury.
A check of the Michigan Department of Motor Vehicle records showed a license in the name of Timothy
J. McVeigh, date of birth © April
Jones & Bartlett
23, 1968, Learning,
with an address LLCVan Dyke Road, Decker, Michigan.
of 3616 North © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
Further investigation showed that James Douglas
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION Nichols and his brother Terry Lynn Nichols owned the prop-
erty at that address and that the property was a working farm.
A relative of James Nichols told the FBI that Timothy McVeigh was a friend of James Nichols, who had
been involved in constructing explosives and who possessed large quantities of fuel oil and fertilizer. On
April 21, 1995, a former coworker of Timothy McVeigh’s reported that he had seen the composite drawing
on © Jones
television and&recognized
BartletttheLearning,
drawing to beLLC © Jonesthat
Timothy McVeigh. He told the investigators & McVeigh
Bartlett wasLearning, LLC
knownNOT to hold
FOR extreme
SALE right-wing views, was a military veteran, and was so agitated
OR DISTRIBUTION NOT about
FOR the conduct
SALE ofOR the DISTRIBUTION
federal government in Waco, Texas, in 1993, that he personally visited the site.
On April 21, 1995, investigators learned that Timothy McVeigh was arrested at 10:30 am on April 19,
1995, in Perry, Oklahoma, for not having a license plate and for possession of a weapon approximately 1.5
hours after the explosion at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. (See FIGURE A) McVeigh, who had been
(continues)


(continued ) © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
FIGURE A: Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Courtesy of FEMA.
held in custody since his arrest on April 19, 1995, listed his home address as 3616 North Van Dyke Road,
Decker, Michigan; listed James Nichols of Decker as a reference; and was stopped driving a yellow 1977
© Jones
Mercury Marquis.& Bartlett Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
As a result of the investigation
NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION conducted by the FBI, Timothy McVeigh was indicted,
NOT FORtried,SALE
found guilty,
OR DISTRIBUTION
sentenced to death, and executed.
NOT FOReffects,
SALEandORbody
DISTRIBUTION
parts should be handled in NOT
Even in FOR SALE
the case of a OR DISTRIBUTION
crash with confirma-
the same fashion as for a known bombing. tion of a
ccidental causes, those causes will be
Any investigation should search for detonator best discovered and corroborated by treat-
components. Aircraft parts should be recov- ing the recovery operation as a criminal
ered and documented like any other evidence. investigation.

97
References
© Jones &CONCLUSION
Scientific crime scene investigation is the best down, it didn’t happen.” This is important to
methodology to ensure that an investigation is remember when conducting the various steps
properly conducted and that justice is served. of crime scene documentation. It reminds the
Use of this methodology will prevent the abrupt individual to be as thorough and precise as pos-
end of an incomplete ©investigation
Jones & Bartlett
and allow Learning,
sible to LLC © recall
correctly retain and be able to Jones the& Bartlett Learning, LLC
for the best use of theNOT FOR
physical SALEfound
evidence OR DISTRIBUTION
events, items, and locations involved NOTwith
FOR a SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
at crime scenes. The general rule relating to crime scene.
crime scene documentation is “if it isn’t w
ritten
QUESTIONS
© Jones &FOR REVIEW
1. Why is it important to secure the crime 10. Where does photography come into play in
scene? processing a crime scene? What is photo-
graphed, and when is it photographed?
2. What is physical evidence?
11. What information is included in a crime
© Jones &3. Bartlett Learning,
What is meant LLC by the term
geographically © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
scene photo log?
crime scene?
12. What information should be included on a
4. What is crime scene contamination, and
crime scene sketch?
what role does it play in the processing of
a crime scene? 13. How does processing a complex crime
scene differ from processing a less complex
5. What is transfer,©and what&isBartlett
Jones its signifi-
Learning, LLC © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
crime scene?
cance to a crime scene?
14. What should the presumption be in a mass
6. What are the eight elements of an appropri-
disaster?
ately protected crime scene?
15. List three rules of crime scene photography.
7. What are field notes, and what role do they
play in a criminal investigation? 16. Discuss the types of photographs that
should be taken at a crime scene.
8. What kind of information should be
recorded pertaining to recovered evidence? 17. Why photograph bloodstains?
9. What is a preliminary scene survey and 18. How should a violent crime scene be
what purpose does it serve? photographed?
19. When should a crime scene be
© Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC ©photographed?
REFERENCES
Dutelle, A. W. (2015). Basic crime scene photography National Forensic Science Technology Center. (2013,
© Jones
(2nd ed.). Seattle, WA: & Bartlett
CreateSpace Learning,
Publishing. LLC Crime scene investigation:
December). © Jones
A guide& Bartlett Learning, LLC
Garmin. (1996–2011).NOT What FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
is GPS? Retrieved for law enforcement. Retrieved NOT FOR
April 25, 2015, SALE OR DISTRIBUTION
August 15, 2011, from http://www8.garmin from http://www.nfstc.org/bja-programs
.com/aboutGPS/ /crime-scene-investigation-guide/
Leica. (2015). Leica Scanning Station C10. Weiss, S. L. (2009). Forensic photography: The
Retrieved April 27, 2015, from http://www importance of accuracy. Upper Saddle River, NJ:
© Jones
.leica- & Bartlett Learning, LLC
g eosystems.us/forensic/downloads Prentice Hall. © Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC
/LeicaScanStationC10.pdf NOT FOR SALE OR DISTRIBUTION

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Chapter 5 Physical Evidence

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© Jones Introduction to Crime investigators will need to develop the ability

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takes something along. This theory is what

While doing this, they must also obtain medical

Advise media representatives of press releases Assist in coverage

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as the chapter unfolds. In any case, investigative

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© Jones & Bartlett

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— Ripped from the Headlines —

Recording the Crime Scene Crime scene photography is visual storytelling,

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Cityville Police Department

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all evident details on the item of evidence Scales reproduction

(FIGURE 4.7). This photo should be close and

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Location of Incident City Time

Victim’s Name DOB CDL

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FIGURE 4.12: Example

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Guidelines for Crime Scene© Jones & Bartlett

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Videography is a useful method for docu-

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repared as though its author were looking