Crime scene management involves defining, classifying, documenting and processing crime scenes systematically. It is important to recognize and secure the primary and secondary crime scenes. The first responding officers should assess the scene safety and record initial observations. Crime scene investigators then search and collect evidence according to established protocols while maintaining chain of custody. Reconstructing the crime through analysis of evidence helps determine what events could have occurred. Other roles include investigation by police, judicial proceedings and medical examination to determine cause and manner of death.

1. CRIME SCENE MANAGEMENT
By Shreyas Patel
Not all physical evidence arises from crime scenes, but all crime
scenes create physical evidence…!!!

2. DEFINING THE CRIME SCENE
• A place when Crime was occurred.
• Any place can become a crime scene.
• A crime scene may be in a car, in a home, or even under water.
• Each crime scene is unique because the chain of events that create it is
unique, but there are some unifying themes that dictate how a crime scene
is studied and processed.

3. CLASSIFICATION OF THE CRIME
SCENE
❖ Primary Crime Scene
- the site of the original or first
criminal activity as the primary crime
scene
❖ Secondary Crime Scene
- any subsequent crime scenes
related to primary crime scene
- a place where evidence collected
related to primary crime scene
❖ Example :- if a person is killed in an
apartment and the body is then
moved in a car trunk to a remote
dump site, the apartment is the
primary scene while the car and
the dump site are secondary crime
scenes.

4. CLASSIFICATION OF THE CRIME
SCENE
❑ Using this classification, a single macroscopic crime
scene such as a house may actually be composed of
many smaller or microscopic crime scenes.
❑ For example, a gunshot victim's body dumped in a
field represents the following crime scenes within the
overall crime scene of the field: the body, the body's
wounds, and the ground around the body.
❑ The microscopic classification of the scene is more
focused on the specific types of physical evidence
found in the macroscopic crime scenes.
❑ Using the previous example, the
microscopic crime scenes are
the trace evidence on the body,
the gunshot residue around the
wound, and the tire tread marks
in the ground next to the body.

5. 1.RECOGNITION
2.IDENTIFICATION 3.INDIVIDUALIZATION
4.RECONSTRUCTION
• Scene Survey
• Documentation
• Collection &
Preservation
• Comparison
Testing
• Evaluation
• Interpretation
• Reporting &
Presentation
Steps to the scientific
examination of a
crime scene

6. INITIAL RESPONSE TO CRIME SCENE
• The initial response to an incident should be expeditious and methodical.
• Policy: The initial responding officer (s), upon arrival, shall assess the scene and treat the incident as a crime
scene. They shall promptly, yet cautiously, approach and enter the crime scene, remaining observant of any
persons, vehicles, events, potential evidence and environmental conditions.
• The initial responding officer(s) should:
A. Note or log dispatch information (e.g., address/location, time, date, type of call, parties involved).
B. Be aware of any persons or vehicles leaving the crime scene.
C. Approach the scene cautiously, scan the entire area to thoroughly assess the scene, and note any possible
secondary crime scenes.
D. Be aware of any persons and vehicles in the vicinity that may be related to the crime.
E. Make initial observations (look, listen, smell) to assess the scene and ensure officer safety before proceeding.
F. Remain alert and attentive. Assume the crime is ongoing until determined to be otherwise.
G. Treat the location as a crime scene until assessed and determined to be otherwise.
H. Safely direct additional responding units into the area.

7. ROLE OF FIRST RESPONDING
OFFICER
The duties of first responders include the following:
• Assist the victim.
• prevent any changes to the victim.
• Search for and arrest the suspect if that person is still on the scene.
• Detain any witnesses. If possible, keep the witnesses separated to preserve their
objectivity. Do not take them back to the scene if at all possible.
• Protect and secure the crime scene. Begin taking crime scene security measures by
using barrier tape, official vehicles, or other means, as required.
• Establish a crime scene security log to record any persons who enter or exit the crime
scene and limit access to those who truly need it. This helps prevent contamination of
the scene with materials brought in after the crime has occurred.
• Document all movements, alterations, or changes made to the crime scene and pass
this information to crime scene investigators.

8. SECURE THE CRIME SCENE
a. Establish boundaries of the scene(s), starting at the focal point and extending outward to
include:
• Where the crime occurred.
• Potential points and paths of exit and entry of suspects and witnesses.
• Places where the victim/evidence may have been moved
(be aware of trace and impression evidence while assessing the scene).
b. Secure the scene. Set up physical barriers (e.g., ropes, cones, crime scene barrier tape,
available vehicles, personnel, other equipment) or use existing boundaries (e.g., doors, walls,
gates).
c. Document the entry/exit of all people entering and leaving the scene, once boundaries
have been established.
d. Protect the scene. Control the flow of personnel and animals entering and leaving the
scene to maintain integrity of the scene.
e. Institute measures to preserve/protect evidence that may be lost or compromised (e.g.,
protect from the elements (rain, snow, wind) and from footsteps, tire tracks, sprinklers).
f. Document the original location of the victim or any objects that you observe being moved.
g. Consider search and seizure issues to determine the necessity of obtaining consent to
search and/or obtaining a search warrant.

9. ROLE OF INVESTIGATING OFFICER
• Converse with the first responder(s) regarding observations/activities
• Evaluate safety issues that may affect all personnel entering the scene(s) (e.g.,
blood-borne pathogens , hazards).
• Evaluate search and seizure issues to determine the necessity of obtaining consent
to search and/or obtain a search warrant.
• Evaluate and establish a path of entry/exit to the scene to be utilized by authorized
personnel.
• Evaluate initial scene boundaries .
• Determine the number/size of scene(s) and prioritize.
• Establish a secure area within close proximity to the scene(s) for the purpose of
consultation and equipment staging.
• If multiple scenes exist, establish and maintain communication with personnel at
those locations

10. ROLE OF INVESTIGATING OFFICER
• Establish a secure area for temporary evidence storage in accordance with
rules of evidence/chain of custody .
• Determine and request additional investigative resources as required (e.g.,
personnel/specialized units, legal consultation/ prosecutors, equipment).
• Ensure continued scene integrity (e.g., document entry/exit of authorized
personnel, prevent unauthorized access to the scene).
• Ensure that witnesses to the incident are identified and separated (e.g.,
obtain valid ID).
• Ensure the surrounding area is canvassed and the results are documented.
• Ensure preliminary documentation /photography of the scene, injured
persons and vehicles.

11. SAFETY FOR CRIME SCENE
INVESTIGATOR
• Crime scene personnel wear a minimum of latex gloves (double gloved) &
protective shoe covers.
• The use of a particle mas/respirator, goggles, or face shield is recommended
in addition to the minimum protective items when potentially infectious dust
or mist are present.
• When processing or collecting evidences , Personnel should be alert to sharp
objects, knives, hypodermic syringes, razor blades, and similar items.
• Personnel should maintain a red biohazard plastic bag for the disposal of
contaminated gloves, clothing, masks, pencils, wrapping paper and so on.
• All non-disposable items such as overalls or lab coats should be removed
and placed in properly marked linen bags for laundering by an appropriate
service.

12. CRIME SCENE DOCUMENTATION
• The purpose of crime scene documentation is to permanently record the
condition of the crime scene and its physical evidence. It is the most time-
consuming activity at the scene and requires the investigator to stay
organized and systematic. Problem-solving skills, innovation, and originality
will also be needed. The four major tasks of documentation are :
(1) note taking, (2) videography, (3) photography, and (4) sketching.
• All four are necessary and none is an adequate substitute for another; for
example, notes are not substitutes for photography and video is not a
substitute for sketching. Each tool must be applied when and where needed
to give as complete a record as possible.

13. (1) NOTE TAKING
Effective notes as part of a crime scene investigation serve as a written record of all of the
crime scene activities. The notes are taken as the activities are done so they are not subject to
memory loss at a later time. A general guideline for note taking is to consider the “W's” (who,
what, when, where, and why), in addition to the following:•Notification information—Note the
date and time, method of notification, and information received.
• Arrival information—Note the means of transportation, date and time, personnel present at
the scene, and any notifications to be made.
• Scene description—Note the weather, location type and condition, major structures,
identification of transient and conditional evidence, containers holding evidence of recent
activities (ashtrays, trash cans, etc.), clothing, furniture, and any weapons present.
• Victim description—In most jurisdictions, the body should never be moved or disturbed until
the medical examiner has given approval. Once given permission, then note victim position,
wounds, clothing, jewelry, or identification (its presence or absence).
• Crime scene team—Note assignments to team members, walk-through information,
beginning and ending times, and evidence handling results.
Accurate crime scene note taking is crucial at the initial crime scene investigation, but it is also
essential for any subsequent investigations that may follow.

14. (2) VIDEOGRAPHY
Video recording (videography) of the crime scene has become a routine procedure for crime
scene documentation. Its acceptance is widespread due to its ability to provide a virtual
image of the scene and the increased availability of affordable equipment with user-friendly
features such as DVD recording.
• The following summarizes the process that should be followed for effective videotaping of
crime scenes:
• Document the recording by use of a placard that includes the case number, date and time,
location, and videographer's name.
• Begin with the scene surroundings. Include roads to and from the scene before taping the
general views of the scene itself; use the four compass points as a guide.
• Provide a general orientation of the scene. Videotape the orientation of items of evidence in
relation to the overall scene; wide-angle views are especially useful. Do not jump from one
location to another; instead, use a smooth transition that encompasses the overall locations
of evidence.

15. (2) VIDEOGRAPHY
• Record the victim's viewpoint. Move to a safe location near the victim and record the
four compass points viewed away from the victim.
• Camera technique should include smooth movements; use a tripod or monopod if
possible. Use additional lighting for all interior scenes (most camcorders have low-light
automatic aperture corrections but additional lighting is suggested). Once
videotaping has been completed, review it on the scene and reshoot the scene as
needed.
• The original videos are evidence and should not be edited or changed; make copies
when needed.
Video recording of crime scenes is a valuable tool for providing an overall, accurate
impression of the crime scene that often cannot be accomplished by the other
documentation tasks; however, it is never an adequate substitute for any of the other
tasks.

16. (3) PHOTOGRAPHY
• Photograph the the most fragile area of the crime scene first.
• Photograph all stages of the crime scene investigation including discoveries.
• Photograph are the evidence in detail and include a scale, the photographer’s initials and
the date.
• Photograph the interior crime scene in an overall and overlapping series using a wide angle
lens.
• Photograph important evidence twice.
• A medium distance photograph that shows the evidence and its position to other evidence
• A close up photograph that includes a scale and fills the frame.
• The following is the basic equipment needed for photographic documentation of
crime scene:
1.Camera (35 mm is the most common type) 2.Normal lens (50 to 60 mm)
3.Wide angle lens (28 to 35 mm) 4.Electronic flash with cord
5.Tripod

17. (4) SKETCHING
• Sketching a crime scene is the assignment of units of measurement or
correct perspective to the overall screen and the
• relevant physical evidence identified within the scene. Sketching a crime
scene not difficult, but it requires some organization and planning by the
investigator. There are two types of Sketch of the crime scenes: Rough
sketches and Finished or final sketches. Three technique can be used to
obtain measurements for the crime scene sketch :
1.Triangulation
2. Base line (fixed line)
3. Polar co-ordinators

18. N

20. CRIME SCENE SEARCHING
METHODS
• After completion of the crime scene documentation and intensive search of
the scene for physical evidence, the collection and preservation of the
evidence can begin.
• There are some methods from crime scene searching are as follows:
1.Link method 2.Line/strip method
3.Grid method 4.Zone method
5.Wheel/Ray method 6.Spiral method

23. THE GOLDEN RULES FOR
SEARCHING
• Three Golden Rules to maximize the recovery of evidence :
1) Search area should be determined to maximize concentration. Each area
should no more than 20-40 minutes to search.
2) Breaks should be taken after each search. (at least 10 mins)
3) Search the same area twice so that nothing is overlooked.

24. COLLECTION AND PACKAGING OF
EVIDENCE
• Forceps and similar tools may have to be used to pick up small items.
• Unbreakable plastic pill bottles with pressure lids are excellent container for
hairs, glass, fibres and other kinds of trace evidence.
• Most items of evidence at a crime scene will be packaged in a primary
container that is placed inside a secondary container.
• Druggist’s folds are especially well suited as a primary containers for trace
evidence collection and packaging.
• These folds are then placed inside outer containers such as envelopes,
packets, canisters, paper and plastic bags.

25. CHAIN OF CUSTODY
• It is a list of all persons who came into possession of an item of evidence.
• The chain of custody, must be established whenever evidence is presented
in court.
• Adherence to standard procedures in recording its location, marking it for
identification, and properly completing evidence submission forms for
laboratory analysis is critical.
• Every person who handled the evidence and where it was at all time must
be documented.

26. CRIME SCENE
RECONSTRUCTION
• Crime scene reconstruction is the process of determining or
eliminating the events that could have occurred at the
crime scene by analysis of the crime scene appearance,
location and position of the physical evidence, and forensic
laboratory examination of the physical evidence.
• It involves scientific crime scene investigation, interpretation
of the scene's pattern of evidence, laboratory testing of the
physical evidence, systematic study of related case
information, and logical formulation of potential scenarios
that could produce the evidence at the scene.
• Crime scene reconstruction is based on observation,
scientific experimentation, and relevant past experiences of
the investigator. Its steps and stages, like those in forensic
science, follow basic scientific principles, theory formulation,
and logical methodology.
• Reconstruction incorporates investigative information with
physical evidence analysis and interpretation and molds
them into a reasonable explanation of the criminal activity
and its related events.

27. ROLE OF POLICE
• Investigate the Case.
• Arrest the Suspect.
• Collect the evidences.
• Keep the peace.
• Prevent the crime.
• Provide social services.
• Maintain public order.
• Protect rights/freedoms of individuals.
• Apprehend offenders.
• It is his/her duty to prevent all the courts.

28. JUDICIARY SYSTEM
• In India , the Supreme Court is the highest authority of the judiciary.
❑ Components Of Court

29. ROLE OF JUDICIARY
❖ The Judiciary in India performs various
important role and functions which do
not remain confined within the traditional
jurisdiction of Civil and Criminal:
• Prevention of violation of law
• Making of the new law
• Decides on constitutional questions
• Interprets the Constitution and Laws
• Administrative functions
• Advisory function
• Protection of fundamental rights
• Guardian of the Constitution
❖ The importance of the Judiciary:
The importance of the judiciary in a
democratic society can hardly be
exaggerated. Judiciary is a part of the
democratic process. Judiciary not only
administers justice, it protects the rights of the
citizens and it acts as the interpreter and
guardian of the Constitution. In many states,
the judiciary enjoys the power of judicial review
by virtue of which the judiciary decides the
constitutional validity of the laws enacted or of
the decree issued. It can invalidate such laws
and decrees which are not constitutional.

30. ROLE OF FIRE BRIGADE
• Promote fire safety
• Fighting fires and protecting people and property from fires.
• Rescuing people from road traffic accidents.
• Dealing with other specific emergencies, such as flooding or terrorist
attack
• Prevention of fire
• Provide emergency medical

31. ROLE OF MEDICO-LEGAL OFFICER
• Identification of the death crime scene and whether it is genuine or fake.
• Identification of unknown death bodies, it’s age, race, community, sex,
height, structure, etc.
• Injuries on body, nature of weapon involved, caused by defensive, offensive
act or self-inflected.
• Evaluation of injuries and wounds.
• To establish cause of death, mode of death, time of death, and manner of
death.
• To decide, the death is suicidal, homicidal, accidental or natural.
• To collection of bloodstain, seminal stains, nail scarping, body fluids, etc.
• Preservation of trachea for carbon soots and tibia or femur bone for diatom
examination.

32. ROLE OF MEDICO-LEGAL OFFICER
• To provide symptoms of poisoning and nature of poison consumed by the
deceased.
• Collection of blood for DNA and blood grouping, hair as specimen samples.
• To establish linkage between human organ whether belongs to the same
individual.

33. OTHER FORENSIC EXPERTS
AND THEIR ROLE
1. Explosive Expert
2. Fingerprint Expert
3. Ballistic Expert
4. Photography Expert
5. Dog Squads
6. Document Expert
7. Forensic Psychologist
8. Computer Specialist

34. ROLE OF EXPLOSIVE EXPERT
• Type and mechanism of Live bomb.
• Handling a live bomb at crime scene.
• Diffusion of a live bomb as per standard measures.
• To determine the type of explosive material used in device.
• To ascertain effectiveness and fatal intensity of bomb.
• To know the source and manufacturing process of the device and whether
prepared by a skilled person or non-skilled person.
• To find out nature and type of residue materials of an explosives.

35. ROLE OF FINGERPRINT EXPERT
• Search of possible fingerprints on doors, windows, tables, utensils,
glasses, car, etc.
• To develop and make latent fingerprints visible.
• To get photograph with proper scale and marking.
• Lifting of developed fingerprints from immovable objects.
• Comparison of fingerprints taken from the crime scene witsearching for
drugs and explosives, searching for drugs and explosives, searching for
drugs and explosives,vh suspect’s fingerprints.
• To maintain fingerprints record with appropriate classification.

36. ROLE OF BALLISTIC EXPERT
• Identification of firearms and its working.
• Calibre of firearm, cartridge, bullet, pellet, wad, etc.
• Identification of firearm shooter through gunshot residues.
• Distance and angle of fire.
• Establish of gunshot injuries, wound of entry and exit.
• To locate the projectiles scattered at the crime scene.
• To decide the case as a homicide, suicide or an accident.

37. ROLE OF PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERT
• To make complete and accurate record pf the crime scene.
• To establish exact location of various object including the dead body at the
crime scene.
• Searching of micro traces and hidden evidences with the help of UV, IR
photographic techniques.
• Photography and videography during post-mortem of the dead body.
• To prepare photographic evidence such as fingerprints, footprints, tyre
marks, shoe prints, tool marks, etc.
• Closeup photography of wounds and injuries such as entry wound of bullet
with marks such as burning, blackening, singeing, etc.
• To record evidences found on body.
• Recordings of activities of criminals during crime in action such as riots,
demonstration, arson, etc.

38. ROLE OF DOG SQUAD
• The dog's active sense of smell, sight and hearing have a decisive
advantage over the human agencies and are put to use for assisting the
Police in a variety of investigations and search operations. Dogs could be
used with substantial success in tracking the criminals after a crime has been
committed and in searching premises to locate criminals. Dogs could be
used for recovering articles stolen, searching of missing persons and for
patrolling, Explosives and Narcotic detection and VIP and VVIP security.
• searching for drugs and explosives.
• locating missing people.
• finding crime scene evidence.
• attacking people targeted by the police.
• In India, the National Security Guard inducted the Belgian Malinois into its K-9
Unit, Border Security Force and Central Reserve Police
Force use Rajapalayam as guard dogs to support the Force in the borders
of Kashmir. The Delhi Police has recruited many of the city's street dogs to be
trained for security purposes.