overlooked.
A photo will always show more than a witness is able to recall
with certainty.
f. When the crime scene is indoors, photos of the house or building and
surrounding grounds are taken. All rooms directly connected with the one where
the crime occurred are photographed.
Also, points of entry and exit are
photographed.
Places where evidence has been concealed are photographed.
Photos are taken to show the situation just after the event. These photos will
include any evidence. Examples are evidence of a struggle, drinking glasses,
food on tables, lights burning, and anything unusual or unnatural.
g. If the crime scene is outdoors, photos should be taken which will
identify the location. Impressions of footprints, tire tracks, and effects on
foliage such as bent grass, broken twigs, or branches can be very valuable.
5.
Searching for Evidence.
(See Appendix A for Equipment Needed.)
a. Each crime scene is different.
Therefore, each must be processed
according to the surrounding circumstances.
First complete the actions in
paragraph 2. Then, since requirements may vary, you should proceed as follows:
(1) Make a general survey of the scene. Note the location of obvious
traces of the action and the probable entry and exit points used by the
offender(s). Record, also, the size and shape of the area involved.
(2) Begin making a rough sketch of the scene.
b. In rooms, buildings, and small outdoor areas, a systematic clockwise
search for evidence is begun.
You should examine each item found and the
floor, walls, and ceiling for anything that may be of value as evidence. You
should:
(1) Give particular attention to fragile evidence.
It may be destroyed
or contaminated, if not collected when discovered.
(2) Sometimes doubt exists as to the value of an item.
If so, treat it
as evidence until proven otherwise.
(3) Ensure each area where latent fingerprints may be present is closely
examined. Ensure that action is taken to develop the prints.
(4) Carefully protect any impression of value as evidence in surfaces
conducive to making casts or molds. Photograph the impression and make a cast
or mold.
(5) Note stains, spots, and pools of liquid at the scene.
Treat them as
evidence.
(6) Note any peculiar odors coming from the scene.
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MP0100
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