Area Canvas

Question 1

Objectives of area canvas

Answer 1

Identifying the offender
Identifying and locating evidence (vehicle, clothing, weapons)
Identifying witnesses
Gathering information

Question 2

Other benefits

Answer 2

Sighting of offender
Relevant property or vehicles
Potential witnesses
Creating an early opportunity to arrest
Obtaining key information
Promoting awareness of significant occurrences

Question 3

Identifying time parameters

Answer 3

Should be set for;
the offences
the scene
previous residents and visitors at the scene
consideration or varying work times

Question 4

Key point at tema Briefings

Answer 4

1. Summarise the situation and detail the duties, areas of responsibility
2. Emphasis the need for thoroughness
3. Questioner only a guide - be flexible
4. Info / evidence of probative value should be on a FWS
5. Consider visiting canvas are, reconcile with map
6. Ensure all forms are completed
7. Compare completed locations with master copy
8. Advise staff, actions if suspect located, items of evidential value, indiv. refuse to assist, what info can be disclosed.

Question 5

Review completed canvas forms to;

Answer 5

Evaluate quality of completed work
ID lines of enquiry
Monitor ongoing progress of canvas
Facilitate detailed recording process

Question 6

Master record to show;

Answer 6

Addresses which have been visited
Which occupants interviewed
Documentation completed
Relevant comments made

Question 7

Points that may benefit a area canvas;

Answer 7

Use of experts
Use of aide memoir / script
Leaflets
Other - media, poster campaign, mail drop, police presence - caravan etc

Question 8

Debriefing at conclusion of canvas

Answer 8

Key locations
Perceived issues from respondents
What records have been completed
Who has been spoken to at what address
Witness interviews to be conducted
Identity of any suspects
Premises where no response

Question 9

Area canvas checklist

Answer 9

1. Obtain suitable maps
2. Visit and inspect canvas area.
3. Reconcile premises with map
4. Develop an area canvas strategy
   
   • Objectives
   • Parameters
   • Risk assessment
   • Identifying POI, witnesses, suspects
   • Resources
5. Divide area into manageable sections
6. Fully brief all staff covering - situation, thoroughness, guide, FWS
7. Ensure all forms are completed and actioned
8. Shade in a map
9. maintain an ongoing records of results
10. Visit team regularly
11. Attend investigation squad conferences
12. After canvas - debrief