Crime dramas often portray cyber forensic experts swiftly collecting different types of forensic evidence at a crime scene. While the essence is true, forensic science is a meticulous process. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved in real-life crime scene investigation and evidence collection.
1. Securing the Scene: Keeping Everything in Place
Upon arriving at a crime scene, the primary focus is securing the area. This prevents the contamination and disturbance of crucial evidence.
Crime scene investigators (CSIs) cordon off the area with police tape, controlling access to authorized personnel only. This meticulous approach protects even seemingly insignificant details, like footprints or tire tracks, which could hold valuable clues.
2. Documentation: Capturing the Scene Through Photos and Measurements
Once the scene is secured, CSIs begin extensive documentation. They take comprehensive photographs from various angles, capturing the overall scene, the location of potential evidence, and any injuries or objects of interest.
They record detailed measurements to accurately map the scene and establish the relative positions of evidence. These photos and measurements become a permanent record, crucial for reconstructing the events and presenting findings in court.
3. Examining and Identifying Evidence: A Keen Eye for Clues
With the scene documented, CSIs meticulously examine the area for potential evidence. This might involve using special lights to detect fingerprints or bodily fluids that are invisible to the naked eye. They also look for trace evidence like hair fibers, glass fragments, or soil particles that could link a suspect to the scene.
4. Careful Collection and Preservation: Protecting the Evidence Chain
Once potential evidence is identified, proper collection becomes paramount. CSIs use specific tools and techniques depending on the type of evidence. For instance, fingerprint dusting powder is used for fingerprints, while tweezers are used for hair or fiber samples.
They pack the evidence in appropriate containers to prevent contamination and maintain a documented chain of custody—a record of everyone who handled the evidence—ensuring its integrity in court.
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