(7) Treat as evidence items that may include hairs, fibers, and earth
particles, foreign to the area where found.
(8) Proceed systematically, without interruption, to finish processing
the scene. The search for evidence is initially complete when: you have made a
thorough examination of the scene; you have done the rough sketches; you have
made necessary photos; you have completed investigative notes; and you have
returned to the point from which the search began.
A further search may be
necessary after the evidence and the statements obtained have been evaluated.
c. In large outdoor areas, divide the area into strips about 4 feet wide.
First search the strip on the left as you face the scene.
Then search the
adjoining strip.
This procedure is then repeated until you have made a
thorough search of the whole area.
Such areas within the scene may be very
large. It may then require a lot of time to search. It is still a must that
the search be done by you and other investigative personnel. Failure to note
and take the proper action on each piece of evidence will be as harmful to an
investigation as it would be in a small room. Several personnel may be used to
make the search; however, all the recording of locations of items of evidence
on the rough sketch should be done by one person and assisted by others only as
necessary.
d. A search may be advisable beyond the area considered the immediate
scene. 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. When this occurs, persons needed to do the search may be
secured from MP resources, or other available units. All persons participating
in the search must be well briefed on at least the following points:
(1) A full description of the item(s) being sought.
(2) All information available as to how the item(s) may have been hidden
or discarded.
(3) The action to be taken when the item is found. When searchers find
an item believed to be the one sought or one similar to that item, you should
stress one fact: they should immediately notify the person in charge of the
search without touching or moving the item. Also, they should protect the area
until the person in charge arrives.
e. After completing the search of the scene (paragraphs 5b, c, and d
above), you should examine the object or person actually attacked by the
offender. For example, a ripped safe, a desk drawer that has been pried open,
or a PX showcase from which items have been stolen, would be processed after
the remainder of the scene has been examined. In a homicide case, the position
of the victim should be outlined with white chalk or any other suitable
material before the body is removed. If the victim has been pronounced dead by
a doctor or is obviously dead, it is advisable to examine the body.
Also,
examine the clothing and the area under the body. Do the
MP0100
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