Crime Scene Searches Flashcards
Crime Scene Search Definition
- examination of a person, building,
vehicle, or premises - purpose of locating items of evidence
- used in the prosecution of a crime
- the identification of its perpetrator
- the exoneration of the innocent
- or used as an investigative tool.
THE PURPOSE OF A SEARCH IS TO
DISCOVER OR LOCATE PHYSICAL EVIDENCE.
MUST HAVE ONE OF THREE REQUIREMENTS BEFORE A SEARCH IS PERFORMED
- SEARCH WARRANT
- CONSENT – VERBAL OR WRITTEN
- INCIDENT TO LAWFUL ARREST
An effective crime scene search must be
- systematic
- cover the entire area
The primary crime scene is
where a crime actually occurred
A secondary crime scene is
in some way related to the crime
but is not where the actual crime took place
Best methods of collection
Photo
Sketch
Collect
Fingerprint
Different search methods
*Line or strip search
*Grid search
*Spiral, focal point or circle search
*Zone or Quadrant search
*Vehicle search
Strip
Searchers walk parallel paths
Good for large areas and open fields
Position arm’s length apart (or closer)
Line
- large and open.
- Quick and simple
- limited area such as a room.
Grid
Searchers walk parallel & perpendicular
paths
Good for large areas and open fields
Position arm’s length apart (or closer)
Twice the searching as the “strip” search
Spiral, focal point or circle search
- small area, interior spaces
- starts either center or the perimeter
- moves in a circular path.
Wheel
Pie shaped segments
Start in the middle and work “out” (or
reverse)
Not good for large areas
Zone
- more thorough examination of a
concentrated area - Divide crime scene into smaller
quadrants
Vehicle
Divide into quadrants (zones)
Right front
Left front
Right rear
Left rear
Trunk
Engine
