Area Canvass

Question 1

Objectives of area canvas

Answer 1

ID offender, identify/locate evidence, ID witnesses, gather information

Question 2

Purpose of methodically conducted area canvas

Answer 2

METHODICAL CANVAS

• Present high likelihood of identifying/contacting offender/associates/witnesses/evidence/exhibits as often links between scene and offender/witnesses/victim
• Offender had to move in and out of scene - can identify witnesses to movements of offender before/after offence.

Question 3

Matters recorded by O/C area canvas in detailed master record

Answer 3

Addresses visited, which occupants interviewed, documentation completed, any relevant comments made

Question 4

What other approaches

Answer 4

Media, poster campaign, mail drop, high profile police presence

Question 5

Specialist police units assist area canvas planning

Answer 5

Behavioural science unit or criminal/geographic profilers could assist with setting parameters or locations where suspect frequent/reside.

Question 6

Area canvas at same time as offence

Answer 6

To capture people who regularly pass through that area at that time of the day
Eg death in park early in day

Question 7

O/C area canvas report

Answer 7

AREA CANVAS REPORT

• Submit a report to OC investigation outlining circumstances of this aspect of investigation
• Actions taken, any significant findings, attention drawn to any action taken outside of original phase strategy.

Question 8

O/C area canvas to keep up morale of staff

Answer 8

MORALE FOR AREA CANVASS

• Essential staff remain focused and alert to possibility they are speaking to witness or offender
• Provide feedback and updates on progress
• Keep them involved in main briefings
• Regularly visited to monitor welfare, morale, enthusiasm and efficiency
• Consider provisions (toilet, refreshments)