Initial Action- Preserving The Scene

Question 1

What should you remember when preserving the scene

Answer 1

Freeze, control, Guard, preserve

Question 2

The first step for preserving a scene is identify what steps does this involve?

Answer 2

Gather info and carry out an initial assessment of the scene

Warrant less powers to deal with evidential material

Establish common approach paths for all movements in and out of the scene avoiding routes taken by the victim or suspect

Note and record observations

Question 3

The second step for preserving a scene is to secure. What steps do you take?

Answer 3

Secure scene under section 116 of the search and surveillance act 2012

Removal of all persons within the scene

Establish cordon perimeters using police tape

Arrange and brief scene guards

Question 4

The third step for initial action at the scene is to preserve what are the steps?

Answer 4

Preserve what is there and leave it
“in situ” nothing is touched or a move

Record movements/action taken at the scene

No immediate risk consider stepping plates

Common approach path into and out of the scene

Question 5

The fourth steps for initial action of preserving the scene is to consider. What are the steps?

Answer 5

Initial photographs of the scene and persons present

Question 6

What is the purpose of a crime scene log?

Answer 6

No unauthorised entry into the scene

Integrity of evidence is secured

Contamination issues are managed

Entail opportunities a maximised

Question 7

What are the duties of a scene guard

Answer 7

Denied any person access to the scene unless they are authorised to enter by the officer in charge of the investigation

Maintain a crime scene log note every person authorised to enter the scene e.g. name authority purpose of visit time of entry and exit

Brief others on all relevant matters and hand over a crime scene log

Protect the scene