Crime Scene Investigation Procedural Guide

Specifically written for field use, this book provides a concise, ready source of information for the processing of the most commonly encountered crime scenes involving both persons and property. The book begins with the initial response and continues on to cover evidence documentation, processing, preservation, and collection. All aspects of scene procedure are covered to make sure investigators don''t miss valuable clues that could make or break a case. The book includes a CD with downloadable forms needed for crime scene investigations.

Those tasked with investigating crime scenes come from a variety of backgrounds and varying levels of experience. Crime Scene Investigation Procedural Guide gives the novice investigator the procedures for almost any crime scene imaginable while providing the seasoned pro a ready reference for crimes occurring even under the most unusual of circumstances. Designed as a stand-alone text or as a companion to Ross Gardner’s Practical Crime Scene Investigation, the book details the precise steps that need to be taken when processing and analyzing a crime scene.

Using a bulleted format for quick, easy access, the authors provide hands-on, concise instruction in a style friendly to a range of professionals. Topics discussed in this practical manual include:

• Preparation for response, initial response, scene management, and scene evaluation/analysis
• Scene photography, videography, sketching, and search and processing procedures
• Steps to be taken prior to releasing the scene
• Response, documentation, processing, and collection of evidence for specific crimes against persons and property
• Evaluation, processing, collection, and preservation of all items of evidence encountered at the scene, including friction ridge evidence, two- and three-dimensional impression evidence, and trace and biological evidence
• Bloodstain pattern documentation and shooting incident documentation

Appendices include direction on working with potential blood-borne pathogens and worksheets for documenting and evaluating the scene and processing various types of evidence. A supplemental CD is included with downloadable forms for crime scene investigations. Adherence to the instructions provided in this guide will help ensure investigators that vital evidence is properly documented and preserved.