SPECIALIZED CRIME INVESTIGATION with
LEGAL MEDICINE
Week 4 and 5
Prepared by: Honey Angelu M. Mirafuentes,
RCrim
Basic Components and Process of Crime Scene
Investigation
PNP's Criminal Investigation Manual defines
CRIME SCENE as a venue or place where the
alleged crime/incident/event has been
committed (PNP, 2011).
The following are different types of crime scene
according to time of commission, location and
source of evidence.
According to Time of Commission
1. Day Time Crime Scene – from sunrise to
sunset (6:00AM to 6:00PM)
2. Night Time – from sunset to sunrise
(6:00pm to 6:00AM)
According to Location
1. Indoor crime scenes - affords the crime
scene protection from weather and
allows investigators to take time and
process the scene in a slow and
methodical manner, without concern
for weather influences
2. Outdoor crime scenes – most
vulnerable to weather condition and
present more problems
3. Continuing/ mixed crime scenes – from
indoor to outdoor and/or vice versa.
4. Special Location/Conveyance Crime
Scene – the most difficult to handle
because of its nature, it need special
support resources to process; examples
include vehicle, air plane, drum, septic
tank, etc.
According to Source of Evidence
1. Primary Crime Scene – investigation
usually begins where the body is
originally found.
2. Secondary Crime Scene – where the
victims are confined. Where the assault
initially took place. Route to and from
the primary crime scene. Method used
to transport the victim. Any place
where evidence is located.
Crime Scene Reconstruction – the mental
reproduction of a crime scene.
 Crime Reconstruction – narration of the
crime made by the suspect
 Mental Reconstruction – narration of
the crime by the investigator on case
Reconstruction of Crime Scene – the actual
reproduction of a crime scene.
 Physical Reconstruction – point of view
of suspect/victim/witness/evidence is
shown.
Crime Scene Investigation – refers to the post-
incident police operational procedures
undertaken at the crime scene when a crime
has been committed. Crimes can't be solved by
a single individual no matter how good he/she
is. Criminal Investigation needs to be solved by
a team of experts in order to be successful and
be shrouded by a veil of stringent accountability
(Galero-Müftüoğlu, 2015, p.26).
Deductive Approach – this approach entails
immediate assumption of a theory then later
supports it by collecting corroborative
information.
Inductive Approach – this technique requires
the collection of information first. Analysis and
evaluation information follows to develop a
theory.
Thus, there are three components of crime
investigation according to the 2011 PNP's
Manual on Investigation of Crimes of Violence
and other Crimes; namely:
1. First Responder
2. Investigator-on-Case
3. Scene of the Crime Operation.
First Responder
First Responders are members of the police,
military, fire, medical teams, and other
volunteer organizations who are expected to be
the first to respond to calls for assistance in
cases of incidents involving explosives
(PNP,2011).
The four main tasks of the first officer on the
scene are (PNP, 2011):
 To give first aid;
 To apprehend the suspected offender;
 To protect and if necessary collect and
preserve evidence; and
 To cordon off and protect the area.
Investigator-on-case
Investigator-on-Case refers to the duty
investigator duly assigned or designated to
conduct the inquiry of the crime by following a
systematic set of procedure and
methodologies for the purpose of identifying
witnesses, recovering evidence, arresting and
prosecuting perpetrators (PNP, 2011).
Scene of the Crime Operation/Crime Scene
Processing
The Scene of the Crime Operative refers to the
functional capability of the PNP of the Crime
performed by its trained personnel through the
recognition, methodical search, proper
documentation/recording and collection of
physical evidence at the crime scene. (PNP
Crime Laboratory Revised SOCO Manual 2014).
STAGES OF CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION
A. PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION
- The preliminary investigation is the
police agency's first response to a
report that a crime has occurred.
 As in every investigative effort, the
primary objective of the preliminary
investigation is to determine who
committed the crime and to apprehend
the offender.
 The preliminary investigation collects
evidence which supports that a crime
has occurred, the identification of the
offender, and the arrest and
subsequent conviction of the offender.
 The framework of the preliminary
investigation is based on the following
major tasks:
(1) verification that an offense has
occurred;
(2) identification of the victim, the place of
the crime, and the time of the crime;
(3) identification of solvability factors;
(4) communication of the circumstances of
the crime; and
(5) the identification of those investigative
tasks completed and those yet to be done.
 The first responder will collect “FACTS”
surrounding the crime committed
 The investigator will identify the
suspect through confession, eyewitness
testimony, circumstantial evidence and
associative evidence
ASSESSMENT – gathering of facts
 DATA
 INFORMATION
 INTELLIGENCE
B. FOLLOW-UP INVESTIGATION
 - An extension of the preliminary
investigation. The purpose is to provide
additional investigation in order to close
a case, locate or trace and arrest an
offender, and/or recover stolen
property.
C. FINAL INVESTIGATION
- The submission of the outcome of the
preliminary and follow-up investigation.
The report is used to prove the guilt of
suspect/s.
GENERAL INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURES (PNP,
2011)
The purpose of these procedures is to adapt to
the current trends in modern investigation, in
line with the PNP Integrated Transformation
Program which seeks to improve and integrate
the different manuals used by the PNP to serve
as guide in all aspects of police investigation. It
also aims to come up with a definite
investigative procedure on specific cases from
the time the incident happened, until the case is
filed, which will be adopted by the PNP
investigators in pursuing their mandated tasks.
Here is the General Investigative Procedure as
defined in the 2011 PNP's Revised Criminal
Investigation Manual.
1. Upon receipt of call/walk-in complainants
Duty Desk Officer shall:
A. Record the time it was reported; (when)
B. Get the identity of the caller/complainant;
(who)
C. Get the place of the incident; (where)
D. Get the nature of the incident; (what/how)
E. Get the number of victim/s; (how many)
F. Record a brief synopsis of the incident;
G. Direct the nearest mobile car/beat patrollers
or the nearest police precinct to act as first
responder equipped with "police line" to secure
the place of incident a camera; and
H. Inform the duty investigator (preferably one
team of investigators)
 CIDG
 SITG
 SOCO
 NBI
2. At the crime scene
The First responder shall perform his duty and
in addition check the condition of the victim
while the other members of the first responders
shall simultaneously secure the area by putting
a line or any material (like rope, straw and etc).
police
A. If in serious condition
a) Bring the victim immediately to the
nearest hospital using emergency
services;
b) b) Photograph and make a sketch of the
victim (if the victim is dead);
c) c) Get the dying declaration; if
necessary (ask 3 questions), namely;
i. Ano ang pangalan at address mo?
(What is your name and address?).
ii. Kilala mo ba ang gumawa nito sa
iyo? (do you know who did this to
you?
iii. Sa pakiramdam mo ba ay
ikamamatay mo ang tinamo mong
sugat? (Do you think the wounds
you received are fatal?)
However, if there is still a chance to ask more
questions, then follow-up should be done. The
statement, once reduced into writing, shall be
duly signed by or with the thumb mark of the
victim.
DYING DECLARATION/ ANTE-MORTEM
STATEMNET– a legal concept refers to the
effect that the statement which is made by a
dying person explaining the circumstances of his
death.
REVISED RULES ON EVIDENCE
(Rules 128-134, Rules of Court)
Section 37. Dying declaration. — The
declaration of a dying person, made under the
consciousness of an impending death, may be
received in any case wherein his death is the
subject of inquiry, as evidence of the cause and
surrounding circumstances of such death.
 The declaration of a dying person, made
under the consciousness of an
impending death, may be received in
any case wherein his death is the
subject of inquiry, as evidence of the
cause and surrounding circumstances of
such death."
 ante-mortem statement or dying
declaration is entitled to probative
weight if:
(1) at the time the declaration was made, death
was imminent and the declarant was conscious
of that fact;
(2) the declaration refers to the cause and
surrounding circumstances of such death;
(3) the declaration relates to facts which the
victim was competent to testify to;
(4) the declarant thereafter died; and
(5) the declaration is offered in a criminal case
wherein the declarant’s death is the subject of
the inquiry.
RES GESTAE – incidental facts and
circumstances that are admissible in evidence
because they introduce or explain the matter in
issue.
REVISED RULES ON EVIDENCE
(Rules 128-134, Rules of Court)
Section 42. Part of res gestae. — Statements
made by a person while a starting occurrence is
taking place or immediately prior or subsequent
thereto with respect to the circumstances
thereof, may be given in evidence as part of res
gestae. So, also, statements accompanying an
equivocal act material to the issue, and giving it
a legal significance, may be received as part of
the res gestae.
DYING DECLARATION vs RES GESTAE
A dying declaration is made with the intention
of providing evidence in a legal proceeding,
while res gestae evidence is spontaneous and
unplanned, and is intended to explain or clarify
the circumstances surrounding an event or
transaction.
B. If not in serious condition
a) Bring the victim immediately to the
nearest hospital using emergency
services;
b) Get the identity and other data of the
victim;
c) Get initial interview from the victim
Note: The other member/s of the first
responders shall remain at the crime scene to
secure the premises.
d) If the suspect is arrested at the scene
e) Get the names of the persons who
turned-over or arrested the suspect.
f) Isolate the arrested suspect/s and
separate them from any probable
witness of the incident.
g) Record what time the suspect was
arrested.
h) Wait for the investigator to interview
the suspect.
i) If the suspect volunteers any statement,
take note of the time, location and
circumstances of the statements.
3. Investigation Procedure at the Crime Scene
A. Upon arrival at the crime scene
1. Receive the crime scene from the first
responder.
2. Record time/date of arrival at the crime
scene, location of the scene, condition of the
weather, condition and type of lighting,
direction of wind and visibility.
3. Photograph and/or video the entire crime
scene.
4. Before entering the crime scene, all
investigators must put on surgical gloves.
5. Before touching or moving any object at the
crime scene in a homicide or murder case,
determine first the status of the victim, whether
he is still alive or already dead. If the victim is
alive, the investigator should exert effort to
gather information from the victim himself
regarding the circumstances of the crime, while
a member of the team or someone must call an
ambulance from the nearest hospital. Before
removing the victim, mark, sketch and
photograph his/her relative position. Only a
coroner or a medical examiner shall remove the
dead body unless unusual circumstances justify
its immediate removal.
6. Designate a member of the team or ask other
policemen or responsible persons to stand
watch and secure the scene, and permit only
authorized persons to enter the same.
7. Identify and retain for questioning the person
who first notified the police, and other possible
witnesses.
8.Determine the assailant through inquiry or
observe him if his identity is immediately
apparent. Arrest him if he is still in the vicinity.
9. Separate witnesses in order to get
independent statements.
B. Recording
The investigator begins the process of recording
pertinent facts and details of the investigation
the moment he arrives at the crime scene. (He
should record the time when he was initially
notified prior to his arrival).
 He also writes down the identification
of persons involved and what he initially
saw.
 He also draws a basic sketch of the
crime scene
 takes the initial photograph (if a
photographer is available, avail his
services)
This is to ensure that an image of the crime
scene is recorded before any occurrence that
disturbs the scene. As a rule, do not touch, alter
or remove (don’t MAC) anything at the crime
scene until the evidence has been processed
through notes, sketches and photograph, with
proper measurements.
C. Searching for evidence
Each crime is different, according to the physical
nature of the scene and the crime or offense
involved. Consequently, the scene is processed
in accordance with the prevailing physical
characteristics of the scene and with the need
to develop essential evidentiary facts peculiar
to the offense.
 A general survey of the scene is always
made, however, to note the locations of
obvious traces of action, the probable
entry and exit points used by the
offender(s) and the size and shape of
the area involved.
 In rooms, buildings, and small outdoor
areas, a systematic search of evidence is
initiated (In the interest of uniformity, it
is recommended that the clockwise
movement be used.)
 The investigator examines each item
encountered on the floor, walls, and
 ceiling to locate anything that may be of
evidentiary value.
 You should give particular attention to
fragile evidence that may be destroyed
or contaminated if it is not collected
when discovered.
 If any doubt exists as to the value of an
item, treat it as evidence until proven
otherwise.
 Ensure that the item or area where
latent fingerprints may be present is
closely examined and that action is
taken to develop the prints.
 Carefully protect any impression of
evidentiary value in surfaces conducive
to making casts or molds. If possible,
photograph the impression and make a
cast or mold.
 Note stains, spots and pools of liquid
within the scene and treat them as
evidence
 Treat as evidence all other items, such
as hairs, fibers, and earth particles
foreign to the area in which they are
found; for example, matter found under
the victim's fingerprints.
Proceed systematically and uninterruptedly to
the conclusion of the processing of the scene.
The search for evidence is initially completed
when, after a thorough examination of the
scene, the rough sketch, necessary photograph
and investigative notes have been completed
and the investigator has returned to the point
from which the search began.
Further search may be necessary after the
evidence and the statements obtained have
been evaluated.
In large outdoor areas, it is advisable to divide
the area, into strips about four (4) feet wide.
The policeman may first search the strip on his
left as he faces the scene and then the adjoining
strips.
It may be advisable to make a search beyond
the area considered to be the immediate scene
of the incident or crime. For example, evidence
may indicate that a weapon or tool used in the
crime was discarded or hidden by the offender
somewhere within a square-mile area near the
scene.
After completing the search of the scene, the
investigator examines the object or person
actually attacked by the offender. For example,
a ripped safe, a desk drawer that has been pried
open or a room from which items has been
stolen, would be processed after the remainder
of the scene has been examined for traces of
the offender.
In a homicide case, the position of the victim
should be outlined with a chalk or any other
suitable material before the body is removed
from the scene. If the victim has been
pronounced dead by a doctor or is obviously
dead, it is usually advisable to examine the
body, the clothing and the area under the body
after the remainder of the scene has been
searched. This is to enable the
policeman/investigator to evaluate all objects of
special interest in the light of all other evidence
found at the scene.
D. Collection of Evidence
This is accomplished after the search is
completed, the rough sketch finished and
photographs taken. Fragile evidence should be
collected as they are found. All firearms (FAs)
found to have tampered serial numbers (SNS)
shall be automatically
subjected to macro etching at the Philippine
National Police Crime Laboratory (PNP-CL). A
corresponding request to the Firearms and
Explosive Office (FEO) must be made for
verification purposes.
The investigator places his initials, the date and
time of discovery on each item of evidence for
proper identification. Items that could not be
marked should be placed in a suitable container
and sealed.
E. Markings of Evidence
Any physical evidence obtained must be marked
or tagged before its submission to the evidence
custodian. These are information to ensure that
the items can be identified by the collector at
any time in the future. This precaution will help
immeasurably to establish the credibility of the
collector's report or testimony and will
effectively avoid any suggestions that the item
has been misidentified.
Markings on the specimen must at least contain
the following:
a. Exhibit Case Number
b. Initials and or signature of the collecting
officer.
c. Time and date of collection.
F. Evaluation of Evidence
Each item of evidence must be evaluated in
relation to all the evidence, individually and
collectively. If necessary, these pieces of
evidence must be subjected to crime laboratory
examination. Example: firearms for ballistic
examination, hair strands etc.
G. Preservation of Evidence
It is the investigator's responsibility to ensure
that every precaution is exercised to preserve
physical evidence in the state in which it was
recovered/ obtained until it is released to the
evidence custodian.
H. Releasing of Evidence
All collected evidence can only be released
upon order of the court or prosecutor, as the
case maybe.
I. Chain of Custody
A list of all persons who came into possession of
an item of evidence, continuity of possession, or
the chain of custody, must be established
whenever evidence is presented in court as an
exhibit. Adherence to standard procedures in
recording the location of evidence, marking it
for identification, and properly completing
evidence submission forms for laboratory
analysis is critical to chain of custody.
 Every person who handled or examined
the evidence and where it is at all times
must be accounted for. As a rule, all
seized evidence must be in the custody
of the evidence custodian and
deposited in the evidence room or
designated place for safekeeping.
J. Transmittal of Evidence to the Crime
Laboratory
Proper handling of physical evidence is
necessary to obtain the maximum possible
information upon which scientific examination
shall be based, and to prevent exclusion as
evidence in court. Specimens which truly
represent the material found at the scene,
unaltered, unspoiled or otherwise unchanged in
handling will provide more and better
information upon examination. Legal
requirements make it necessary to account for
all physical pieces of evidence from the time it is
collected until it is presented in court. With
these in mind, the following principles should
be observed in handling all types of evidence
(PNP, 2011):
1. The evidence should reach the laboratory in
same condition as when it was found, as much
as possible.
2. The quantity of specimen should be.
adequate. Even with the best equipment
available, good results cannot be obtained from
insufficient specimens.
3. Submit a known or standard specimen for
comparison purposes.
2. INTERVIEW AND INTERROGATION
4. Keep each specimen separate from others so
INTERVIEW – is a conversation with a purpose,
there will be no intermingling or mixing of
motivated by a desire to obtain certain
known and unknown material. Wrap and seal in
information from the person being interviewed
individual packages when necessary.
as to what was done, seen, felt, heard, tasted,
5. Mark or label each of evidence for positive smell or known.
identification as the evidence taken from a
- This is the questioning of a person
particular location in connection with the crime
believed to possess knowledge that is in
under investigation.
official interest to the investigator.
6. The chain of custody of evidence must be
BASIC ASSUMPTIONS
maintained. Account for evidence from the time
it is collected until it is produced in court. Any Nobody has to talk to law enforcers. No law
break in this chain of custody may make the compels a person to talk to the police if he does
material inadmissible as evidence in court. not want to. Therefore, people will have to be
persuaded, always within legal and ethical
THREE TOOLS OF INVESTIGATION
limits, to talk to law enforcers. This makes
(Info/ Interv/Intero/Instru) interviewing an art.

1. INFORMATION I.R.O.N.I.C. FORMAT

- It is the knowledge/data which an
The interview of a witness can be described by
Investigator acquired from other
its acronym 'IRONIC' which stands for Identity,
persons and records.
Rapport, Opening Statement, Narration, Inquiry,
- Knowledge or data that comes from
and conclusion.
either victim or witness.
- Identity – prior to the commencement of an
 DATA interview, the investigator should identify
 INFORMATION himself to the subject by name, rank and
 INTELLIGENCE agency. Except, when there is no need to know
the officer's identity.
Classes of Information
Rapport – it is good to get the positive feeling of
a. Regular Sources – records, files from
the subject towards the investigators; such
government and non-government
friendly atmosphere is a vital for both the
agencies, news items.
subject and the investigator to have a better
b. Cultivated Sources – information
interaction.
gathered upon initiative of the
investigator from informants, vendors, Opening Statement – the investigator must
taxicab driver, GRO, and others. have to indicate why the subject is being
c. Grapevine Sources – these are contracted.
information coming from the
Narration – the witness should be allowed to
underworld characters such as
tell all he knows with little interruptions from
prisoners and ex-convicts.
the investigator.
Inquiry – after all information have been given
by the subject, that is the time for the
investigator to as question to clarify him about
the case under investigation.
Conclusions – after the interview, it is but
proper to close the interview with outmost
courtesy and thanking the subject for his
RULES TO BE OBSERVED IN QUESTIONING
a. One question at a time
b. Avoiding implied answer
c. Simplicity of the questions
d. Saving faces
e. Avoid close ended questions (yes or no)
INTERROGATION – is a questioning of a person
suspected of having committed an offense or a
person who is reluctant to make full disclosure
of information in his possession which is
pertinent to the investigation.
 This is the type of information gathering
that is applied to suspects or hostile
witness
What are the purposes of Interrogation?
a. To obtain confession to the crime
b. To induce the suspect to make
admission.
c. To learn the facts of the crime.
d. To learn the identity of the accomplice
e. To develop information which will lead
to the recovery of the fruits of the crime
f. To discover the details of other crimes
participated by the suspect
Philosophy of interview and interrogation – “the
right officer, asking the right questions, in the
right manner, at the right time and in the right
place, will get the answer”
INTERROGATION TECHNIQUES
Emotional Appeal – place the subject in the
proper frame of mind. The investigator should
provide emotional stimuli that will prompt the
subject to unburden himself by confiding.
Analyze the subject's personality and decide
what motivation would prompt him to tell the
truth, and then provide those motives through
appropriate emotional appeals.
Sympathetic Appeal –The suspect may feel the
need for sympathy or friendship when he is
apparently in trouble. Gestures of friendship
may win his cooperation.
Kindness – the simplest technique is to assume
that the suspect will confess if he is treated in a
kind and friendly manner.
Extenuation – The investigator indicates he
does not consider his subject's indiscretion a
grave offense.
- Luring the suspect into admitting by
telling him that his punishment will be
less
- Less sentence, less punishment
Shifting the blame – The interrogator makes
clear his belief that the subject is obviously not
the sort of person who usually gets mixed up in
a crime like this. The interrogator could tell
from the start that he was not dealing with a
fellow who is a criminal by nature and choice.
- Does blame the suspect but the victim
- Will not make the suspect feel shame
Mutt and Jeff (good cop / bad cop)
 Two agents are employed
Mutt – the relentless investigator, who is not
going to waste any time because he knows that
the subject is guilty. (sour)
Jeff – on the other hand, is obviously a kind-
hearted man. (sweet)
Bluff on a Split Pair
This is applicable when there is more than one
suspect. The suspects are separated and one is
informed that other has talked. (bluffing to
make the other one confess)
Pretense of Physical Evidence
The investigator may pretend that certain
physical evidence has found by laboratory
experts against him.
Jolting
May be applied to calm and nervous subjects by
constantly observing the suspects, the
investigator chooses a propitious (good chance)
moment to shout a pertinent question and
appear as though he is beside himself with rage.
The subject may be unnerved to the extent of
confessing.
Interrogation vs Interview
INTERROGATION INTERVIEW
For witness/victim For suspect/hostile
witness
Friendly and simple Forceful/rigid/skillful
questioning
Allows subject to Tactic to make
narrate and talk suspect admit and
about experience show guilt
CUSTODIAL INTERROGATION/INVESTIGATION
– is the questioning of a law enforcement
officer on a person under custody and
otherwise deprived of his freedom or liberty.
This is the stage in investigation where there is
strict observance of the Miranda Doctrine.
Note: custodial investigation shall include the
practice of issuing an “invitation” to a person
who is investigated in connection with an
offense he is suspected to have committed
without prejudice to the person
Subpoena - A subpoena or witness summons is
a writ issued by a government agency, most
often a court, to compel testimony by a witness
or production of evidence.
Subpoena ad Testificandum – a court summons
to appear and give oral testimony for use at a
hearing or trial.
Subpoena Duces Tecum – a court summons
ordering the recipient to appear before the
court and produce documents or other tangible
evidence for use at a hearing or trial.
3. INSTRUMENTATION
It is the application of instruments and methods
of physical science to the detection of crimes. In
cases where there is no significant physical
evidence to be found, then the use of
instrumentation is relatively unimportant.
Tools of Investigation
The three I's of investigation (PNP, 2011)
1. Information- this refers to the data gathered
by an investigator from either regular or
cultivated sources including the victim
themselves; and from public and private
records; Modus Operandi Files, Arrest Records
and Rogue Gallery.
2. Interview- this refers to the skillful
questioning of suspects and witnesses believed
to possess knowledge that is of official interest
to the investigator. It includes so called
interrogations which are actually interviews
that elicit information from witnesses and
volunteers, paid or confidential informants.
3. Instrumentation- this refers to the use of
forensic technology as a tool in the examination
of physical evidence using established methods.
- it is the application of instruments and
methods of physical science to the detection of
crimes.
- In cases where there is no significant physical
evidence to be found, then the use of
instrumentation is disregarded.
R.A. 7438 – Rights of the person arrested,
detained or under custodial investigation.
a) Any person arrested detained or under
custodial investigation shall at all times
be assisted by counsel.
Counsel de Officio/Ex-Officio Counsel
Counsel de Parte/Ex-Parte Counsel
b) Any public officer or employee, or
anyone acting under his order or his
place, who arrests, detains or
investigates any person for the
commission of an offense shall inform
the latter, in a language known to and
understood by him, of his rights to
remain silent and to have competent
and independent counsel, preferably of
his own choice, who shall at all times be
allowed to confer privately with the
person arrested, detained or under
custodial investigation. If such person
cannot afford the services of his own
counsel, he must be provided with a
competent and independent counsel by
the investigating officer.
c) The custodial investigation report shall
be reduced to writing by the
investigating officer, provided that
before such report is signed, or
thumbmarked if the person arrested or
detained does not know how to read
and write, it shall be read and
adequately explained to him by his
counsel or by the assisting counsel
provided by the investigating officer in
the language or dialect known to such
arrested or detained person, otherwise,
such investigation report shall be null
and void and of no effect whatsoever.
d) Any extrajudicial confession made by a
person arrested, detained or under
custodial investigation shall be in
writing and signed by such person in the
presence of his counsel or in the latter's
absence, upon a valid waiver, and in the
presence of any of the parents, elder
brothers and sisters, his spouse, the
municipal mayor, the municipal judge,
district school supervisor, or priest or
minister of the gospel as chosen by him;
otherwise, such extrajudicial confession
shall be inadmissible as evidence in any
proceeding.
e) Any waiver by a person arrested or
detained under the provisions of Article
125 of the Revised Penal Code, or under
custodial investigation, shall be in
writing and signed by such person in the
presence of his counsel; otherwise the
waiver shall be null and void and of no
effect.
Art. 125 – delay in the delivery of
detained persons to the proper judicial
authorities
 Reglementary Period (12-18-36-72)
Twelve (12) hours – light penalties
Eighteen (18) hours – correctional penalties
thirty-six (36) hours – afflictive penalties
twenty-four (24) hours – drug related cases
seventy-two (72) hours - terrorism
f) Any person arrested or detained or
under custodial investigation shall be
allowed visits by or conferences with
any member of his immediate family, or
any medical doctor or priest or religious
minister chosen by him or by any
 member of his immediate family or by
his counsel, or by any national non-
 However, a separate Police Blotter,
governmental organization duly
shall be maintained for offenses
accredited by the Commission on
requiring confidentiality like violence
Human Rights of by any international
against women and children and those
non-governmental organization duly
cases involving a child in conflict with
accredited by the Office of the
the law to protect their privacy
President. The person's "immediate
pursuant to R.A. 9262 (Anti- Violence
family" shall include his or her spouse,
Against Women and Children Act of
fiancé or fiancée, parent or child,
2004) and R.A. 9344 (Juvenile Justice
brother or sister, grandparent or
and Welfare Act of 2006).
grandchild, uncle or aunt, nephew or
niece, and guardian or ward.  The duty police officer shall record the
nature of the incident in the police
Protocols in Criminal Investigation blotter containing the five "W"s (who,
what, where, when and why) and one
To ensure a successful prosecution of case
"H" (how) of the information and
through criminal investigation a certain
inform his superior officer or the duty
guideline must be followed. These are
officer regarding the occurrence of such
comprised of standard operating procedures,
incident. In answering the above 5 Ws
protocols, and legal requirements of the law
and 1 H and the Case Disposition, all
that must be observed in handling criminal
such material details about the incident,
cases. The following are the PNP's protocols
including the nature of the action or
which are to be observed when conducting an
offense; the Date, Time, and Place of
investigation (PNP, 2011).
Occurrence; the names of the
1. Jurisdictional investigation of the territorial suspect/s, the victim/s, the witness/es,
unit concerned. if any; facts of the case; significant
circumstances that aggravate or
The Police Station, which has territorial
mitigate the event or the crime should
jurisdiction of the area where the crime incident
be entered along with the identity of
was committed, shall immediately undertake
the officer to whom the case is assigned
the necessary investigation and processing of
(Officer-on-case); and, the status of the
the crime scene, unless otherwise directed by
case (PNP,2011).
higher authorities for a certain case to be
3. Investigation Team
investigated by other units/agency (PNP, 2011).
The Investigation team and equipment All
2. Official Police Blotter
investigators in any police unit must be a
A Police Blotter is an 18" x 12" logbook with graduate of prescribed investigation course
hard-bound cover that contains the daily with a rank of at least PO2 (pre- requisite to
register of all crime incident reports, official assignment) (PNP, 2011).
summary of arrests, and other significant events
Composition of Investigation Team
reported in a police station. All crime incidents
must be recorded in the official police blotter 1. Team Leader;
(PNP, 2011).
2. Investigator/recorder; a. Proceed to the crime scene to validate the
information received;
3. Photographer;
b. Record the exact time of arrival and all
4. Evidence custodian; and
pertinent data regarding the incident in his
5. Composite Illustrator/Artist issued pocket notebook and notify the
Investigator on Case;
Equipment of the investigator
c. Cordon off the area and secure the crime
1. Police line scene with a police line or whatever available
2. Video camera material like ropes, straws or human as
barricade to preserve its integrity;
3. Voice recorder
d. Check whether the situation still poses
4. Camera imminent danger and call for back up if
5. Measuring device necessary;

6. Gloves e. Identify possible witnesses and conduct

preliminary interview and ensure their
7. Flashlight availability for the incoming investigator-on-
case;
8. Fingerprint kit
f. Arrest the suspect/s if around or in instances
9. Evidence bag
wherein the suspect/s is fleeing, make
10. Evidence tag appropriate notification for dragnet operations;

11. Evidence bottles/vials; and g. Prepare to take the "Dying Declaration" of

12. Investigator's tickler (contains the following)
a. Investigator's checklist
b) Anatomical diagram form
c) Evidence checklist
d) Turn-over receipt
4. Duties of the first responder
FIRST RESPONDERS - are members of the
police, military, fire, medical teams, and other
volunteer organizations who are expected to be
the first to respond to calls for assistance in
cases of incidents involving explosives
(PNP,2011). These are their duties according to
the 2011 PNP Criminal Investigation Manual.
severely injured persons with the following
requisites:
i. That death is imminent and the
declarant is conscious of that fact;
ii. That the declaration refers to the cause
and surrounding circumstances of such
death;
iii. That the declaration relates to facts
which the victim is competent to testify
to; and
iv. That the declaration is offered in a case
where in the declarant's death is the
subject of the inquiry. (Section 37, Rule
130 of the Rules of Court).
h. Evacuate the wounded to the nearest
hospital using emergency services;
i. Account for the killed, wounded and arrested
persons for proper disposition;
j. Conduct initial investigation; and
k. Brief the investigator-on-case upon arrival
and turn over the crime scene.
1. Conduct inventory on the evidence taken at
the crime scene; Inventory receipt should be
properly signed by the first responder, SOCO
and the investigator.
5. Duties and responsibilities of the
investigating team
Take full control of the crime scene to include
the conduct of crime scene search; taking of
photographs; making sketches; lifting of
fingerprints; markings of physical evidence;
(Chain of custody) the transmittal of evidence
to crime laboratory; interview of witnesses;
gathering and evaluation of evidence; follow-up
of the case and the documentation and filing of
appropriate charges in court. Establish a
command post in the immediate vicinity of the
crime scene; Designate a holding area in the
immediate vicinity of the crime scene (for the
media, important persons and other
personalities present); Conduct case conference
with the first responder, Scene of the Crime
Operative, other law enforcers and rescue
personnel; Note any secondary crime scene (if
situation requires); and release the Crime scene
after investigation (PNP, 2011).
Investigation of subjects
SUSPECT OR SUSPECTS – Individual(s) who is/are
pointed to be by the victim (s) and witness (es)
to have had committed the crime in issue.
Subject person is not considered as a criminal
unless otherwise his/her conviction is
pronounced in the court (PNP, 2011).
Procedures when arrest is made
1. Secure the person arrested (handcuff at the
back);
2. Inform the arrested person on the cause of
his arrest and his rights as provided for in the
Constitution;
3. Conduct thorough search for weapons and
other illegal materials against the suspect/s;
4. Use reasonable force in making arrest;
5. Confiscated evidence shall be properly
documented and marked;
6. Bring the arrested person to the Police
Station for investigation.
Booking procedures of the Arrested
Person/Suspect
A. The arrested suspect shall be fingerprinted,
photographed and subjected to medical
examination to include liquor and drug tests.
B. Conduct record check.
7 . Taking of sworn documents of suspects
- The execution of a suspect's "WAIVER"
as stipulated in Article 125 of the RPC
shall always be done in the presence of
his chosen counsel or any independent
counsel (PNP, 2011)
8. Taking of sworn documents of the witnesses
- Sworn Statement or Affidavit of
complainant/s and witness/es must be
taken immediately by the investigator-
on-case. Affidavit of Arrest of arresting
officers must be taken immediately not
later than 24 hours. In Inquest cases,
the investigator-on-case and the
arresting officer/s shall observe Art. 125
of the RPC (PNP, 2011).
9. Preparation of reports and filling of charges
The Investigator-On-Case shall submit the
following (PNP, 2011):
a. Spot Report within 24 hrs. to Head Quarters;
b. Progress Report;
c. After Operation Report;
d. Final Report after the case is filed before the
prosecutor's office/court; and
e. Accomplishment Report.
10. Procedure in the release of crime scene
a. Ensure that appropriate inventory has been
made
b. Release is accomplished only after
completion of the final survey and proper
documentation of evidence, witness/es,
victim/s and suspect/s; and
c. If the crime scene is within a private property,
the same must be released to the lawful owner
witnessed by any barangay official. In case of
government facility, it should be released to the
administrator.
11. Follow up of a case
The investigator shall conduct police operation
to identify and apprehend suspect/s based on
the results of the initial investigation conducted
(PNP, 2011).
12. Preparation of case investigation plan.
The conduct of police operation involving
sensational cases, high profile and heinous
crimes must be covered by Case Investigation
Plan (PNP, 2011).
13. Attendance to court duties
The investigator-on-case and arresting officers
shall endeavor to ensure their attendance
during court hearings while Chief of
Police/Heads of Units shall supervise and
ensure the attendance of witness/es (PNP,
2011).
14. Uniform of the investigator
Prescribed uniform should be worn by
investigators when conducting investigation so
as to identify them as PNP personnel (PNP,
2011).
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION PROPER
A. Receipt of Briefing and Designation of
Command Post
- Command Post an area which, is ideally
located adjacent to the Crime Scene
where the CSI Evidence Custodian stays
and receives the pieces of evidence
turned over to him for safekeeping by
the other evidence collectors.
B. Initiation of Preliminary Survey (Team
Leader of CSI or SOCO)
a. Makes a general assessment of the scene;
b. Takes a cautious walk through of the crime
scene;
c. Takes down extensive note to document
important factors;
d. Establishes the evidence most likely to be
encountered;
e. Defines the extent of the search area;
f. Determines the personnel and equipment
needed and makes specific assignments; and
g. From his assessments, he develops a general
theory of the crime scene.
C. Preparation of Narrative Report
The Team leader uses the systematic approach
in making a narrative report.
D. Documentation of the Crime Scene
The photographer begins taking photographs as Distance: From the doorway to the room and
soon as possible. The evidence collectors do not other corners of the room
touch or moved any evidence once it is located
until it has been identified, measured and
recorded.

PHOTOGRAPHING THE CRIME SCENE

The main objective crime scene photography is

to create an accurate objective visual record of
the crime scene before any item is moved as
possible physical evidence.

MAJOR TYPES OF PICTORIAL VIEWS 2. Mid-Range View – shows the nature of

the crime scene.

Midrange photographs transition the viewer

from an “outsider looking in” perspective, to a
more involved perspective. Items of evidence
and their spatial relationships are shown.
Typically, this is done by depicting a single item
in relation to a fixed object in the scene. Done
correctly, this technique shows proper context,
perspective, and scale. It will also show the
precise position of each piece of evidence.

Distance: Eight or ten feet from the victim

1. General View or Long-Range/ Overall

View – photograph of the over- all
scene.

Overall photos capture the global aspects of the

crime scene. Their purpose is to show exactly
3. Close-up View – every physical
where the scene was and to show all
evidence must be photographed in
boundaries of the scene. Overall photographs
close-up view and in four different
are typically taken in an overlapping fashion
angles.
from the outside of the perimeter looking in,
and from the center of the scene looking out. Close-up photographs are deliberate depictions
This covers all areas of the scene. Items of of individual items of evidence. They must show
evidence and their spatial relationships may be all sides of the item and clearly show any
visible, but they are not the main subject of the markings, defects, or other identifying features.
photograph.
 Shows the detail of the crime
 depicts the location of the crime
  process scene from general to specific
(long range, mid-range, close-up and
identifying qualities)
 notes should be recorded that
correspond with photographs.

CRIME SCENE SKETCHES

4. Extreme close up – shows identifying
A crime scene sketch supports the photos taken
details of the crime
from the crime scene. There are two types of
An extreme close-up photograph may be taken crime scene sketch, namely;
of a small item, such as a bloodstain, hair, fabric
Rough Sketch – sketch usually done at the crime
stain or fingerprint in blood. For an extreme
scene
close-up shot, the item should be photographed
at least twice, once with a scale (ruler) and at Finished Sketch – sketch that was polished and
least once without a scale. finished and are usually done at the
headquarters for court presentation.
GENERAL METHODS OF PHOTOGRAPHY
ELEMENTS OF SKETCH
1. Overlapping - which is series of photos take in
a circular or clockwise direction, overlapping a. Measurement
each slight to show the overall scene.
b. Compass direction
2. Progressive - which starts from fixed point,
photographs each piece of evidence as the c. Essential items
photographer moves toward it, and d. Scale and proportion
progressively gets closer in the pictures.
e. Legend
Bodes are photographed from five angles:
f. Title
a. Head to feet

b. Right Side

c. Feet to head

d. Left side

e. Straight down from above

 Photographs provides a visual record of

the crime scene
 the crime scene should be recorded in
its original and uncontaminated state
 photograph evidence "as is" before
collection Q: why do we put a chalk mark on evidence?
 think about replicating the scene for
court presentation
 Q: what if we found the evidence in a grassy
area?

Q: what should we label as the first evidence in

the crime scene?

SPECIFIC KINDS OF SKETCHES

c. Sketch in Details - the immediate scene

only.

a. Sketch of Locality – give picture of the

scene, the crime and its environs,
including neighboring buildings, roads,
etc. Floor Plan/Overview
 This is also known as neighborhood
sketch
d. Exploded/ cross projection – gives the
clear impression of the scene in cases
where blood stains or bullet holes are
found.

TYPES OF MEASUREMENTS

b. Sketch of the Ground – picture of the

scene of the crime with its nearest
physical surrounding.
  This is often used in big spaces or
location.
1. Rectangular coordinates method - a
sketching method that involves measuring the
distance of an object from two fixed lines at
right angles to each other.

4. Compass point - method a sketching method

that requires a protractor or some method of
measuring angles between two lines. One point
is selected as the origin and a line extending
from the origin becomes an axis from which the
angles can be measured.

2. Triangulation method - a sketching method

that requires measuring the distance of an
object along a straight line from two widely
separated fixed reference points.

5. Cross projection method – a sketching

method in which the ceiling appears to open up
like a lid of a hinged box, with the four walls
opening outward. Measurements are then
indicated from a point on the floor to the wall.
6. Azimuth/ Polar Coordinates – this method
requires two people; one who will hold each
3. Baseline method - a sketching method that
end of a tape measure. This is best suited for
makes measurements along from a single
large pen areas where there might not be any
reference line, called a baseline, which can be
reference points by using a handheld GPS
established by using a length of string, chalk
(global positioning system).
line, or some other convenient means.
 CRIME SCENE SEARCH

A crime scene search could only be started after b. Double Strip or Grid Method – is a
it has been photograph and sketched to combination of the strip search and is
systematically look for physical evidence that useful for large crime scene.
may prove useful in establishing that a crime
has been committed and to determine what
method of operation the perpetrator may have
used.

METHODS OF SEARCH

c. Spiral or Circular Method – the

searchers will follow each other in the
path of a spiral, beginning in the outside
and spiraling towards the center or vice
versa in a clockwise or counter clock-
wise direction.
a. Strip or Line Search Method – the
searchers will proceed at the same pace
along the path parallel to one side of
the rectangle.

d. Quadrant of Zone Method – the area to

be searched is divided into four
quadrants and each searcher is assigned
as sector to one quadrant.
 Divides crime scene
  Also known as sector F. Collection of Physical Evidence

The competence to recognize and properly

collect physical evidence is critical to both
solving and prosecuting crimes.

The team leader is always informed of

e. Wheel, Radial or Spoke Method – is
applicable for every area which is
considered to be approximately circular
or oval. The area is then divided into six
quadrants in a pie-like fashion.
 Used during bombing incidents or
crime scenes that are relatively
large
 Also known as Pie
E. Notes Taking
Note taking must be a constant activity
throughout the processing of the crime scene.
Notes must include:
a. Detailed written description of the Crime
Scene with locations of recovered physical
evidence;
b. The time when the physical evidence was
discovered;
significant evidence located. The evidence
collectors shall put his initial, location and date
of collection on the item and turn it over to the
evidence custodian for documentation and
safekeeping.
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE – these are the articles and
materials which are found in connection with
the investigation and which aid in establishing
the identity of the perpetrator or the
circumstances under which the crime was
committed or which, in general assist in the
prosecution of criminal. It embraces any object,
living or inanimate, solid, liquid, or gas state.
What are the procedures needed for the care
of physical evidence?
In order to introduce physical evidence in court,
three important factors must be considered:
a. The article must be properly identified
b. Chain of custody must be proved.
------------ END OF WEEK 4 AND 5 --------------------

c. The person who discovered and collected the

physical evidence;

d. The time when evidence was packaged and

marked; and

e. The disposition of the item when it was

collected.