Dealing With Witnesses At A Scene

Question 1

On first arrival, how should witnesses be treated?

Answer 1

Professionally
Isolate from one another
Instruct not to discuss incident

Question 2

What initial questions must be asked of a witness at a scene?

Answer 2

What happened
Where did it happen
When 
Who was involved
What the witness did
Where the witness went 
What the witness touched
Who touched the witness
Who was present
Description of those present
What did others say/do

Question 3

What should be considered to preserve and recover evidence from a forensically import witness?

Answer 3

• DNA swabs of areas of witness touched by suspect
• DNA swabs of any blood on witness
• DNA swabs of any relevant stains on witness
• Forensic medical exam
• Seizure of clothing
• Seizure of any items touched by offender

Question 4

What other matters should you consider regarding witnesses?

Answer 4

Avoid cross contamination - transport in different vehicles/use different interview room to others

Photograph witness at scene

Photograph any injuries

Download any electronic recordings made by witness at scene.

Question 5

Initial Action checklist for witnesses

Answer 5

Obtain full details

Assemble in a clear area, ensure officer with witnesses

Isolate witnesses from one another

Identify witnesses and conduct scoping interview

Establish whether anyone has left the scene

Establish whether they have phoned anyone - who, number

Record registration numbers of nearby vehicles

Seize CCTV

Question 6

Dealing with a suspect at the scene

Answer 6

Separate

Consider suspects condition (intoxicated etc)

Ask them to cooperate, remove from scene asap
If refuses, consider grounds to arrest

Consider officers who have not been in scene to manage suspect (contamination)

Caution suspect

Consider search of suspect/vehicle

Consider search of vicinity of suspect

Note appearance and behaviors

Record everything they say, consider preliminary interview

DVD interview where possible

Brief OC