Initial Action and Responsibilities at Serious Crime Scenes

Question 1

What is the general investigation model for homicides?

Answer 1

Victim: Identify and locate the victim(s).
Appreciation: Make an initial appreciation of the incident. Assess personal risk and then preserve the lives of others.
Witnesses: Locate and contain witnesses.
Scene: Preserve the scene (e.g. set boundaries).
Exhibits: Note evidence and preserve any that would otherwise be lost or destroyed.
Ingredients: Consider whether the ingredients of the alleged offence have been established.
Powers: Identify what powers are available and consider whether to execute them.
Offenders: Identify and apprehend suspect(s).

Question 2

What are the basic principles that underpin serious crime investigation?

Answer 2

Appreciation Process
Preserve Life
Preserve Scene
Identify and apprehend suspects
Secure Evidence
Identify victim

Question 3

Explain Appreciation..

Answer 3

An appreciation is a proven method of problem solving. The process follows
a series of set steps to ensure the optimum course of action is decided on. It
considers all appropriate factors and weighs the benefits and risks of all
alternative solutions, allowing sound decisions to be taken. An appreciation
is an ongoing process that involves continually thinking through each new
piece of information as it is uncovered.

Question 4

What are the benefits of carrying out an appreciation?

Answer 4

1. Informs all Police staff involved about what they are expected to achieve.
2. Increases the chances of success, i.e. the investigative aims/objectives being met.
3. Establishes a sequence of activities to be carried out.
4. Manages risk.
5. Reduces uncertainty.
6. Eliminates duplication.
7. Ensures nothing is overlooked.
8. Uses resources effectively.

Question 5

What are the 4 main steps in conducting an appreciation?

Answer 5

Aim
Factors
Courses Open
Plan

Question 6

What is the initial action to be conducted to preserve a scene?

Answer 6

1. Identify
2. Secure
3. Preserve
4. Consider
5. Record

Question 7

What is the purpose of scene guards?

Answer 7

A scene guard and the log maintained by that person is used to ensure:

• There is no unauthorised entry into the scene
• Integrity of evidence or potential evidence is secured
• Intelligence opportunities are maximised
• Contamination issues are managed.

Question 8

What is a Tuku Karakia?

Answer 8

Deceased victim prayer (tuku karakia)
The family of a deceased Māori person may request tuku karakia. This is a prayer to the spirit of the deceased person, sanctioning release from this world and guidance along the path to the spirit world Te Hononga i Wairua.