Documenting Crime Scenes: Best Practices and Techniques

Documentation

Memorializes actions for future reference.

Best Practices

Established guidelines for crime scene processing.

Preparation and Plan of Action

Systematic approach to crime scene investigation.

Note-taking

Recording observations during the investigation process.

Contemporaneous Notes

Notes made as events unfold in real-time.

Complete Notes

Thoroughly detail all actions and observations.

Crime Scene Photography

Captures visual evidence of the crime scene.

Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR)

Type of camera used for high-quality images.

Examination Quality Photographs

High-resolution images for detailed analysis.

Admissibility of Photographs

Criteria for photographs to be used in court.

Videography

Augments photography with moving visual documentation.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Drones used for aerial crime scene documentation.

Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar)

Tool for measuring and surveying crime scenes.

Sketching the Scene

Illustrative diagram complementing photographs.

Overview/Bird's-Eye-View

Common sketch type showing horizontal plane.

Elevation Sketch

Vertical view focusing on height and details.

Cross Projection Sketch

Combines horizontal and vertical views.

Triangulation Method

Locates evidence using two fixed reference points.

Baseline Method

Straight line measurement from fixed points.

Rectangular-Coordinate Method

Locates objects using adjacent walls as reference.

GPS

Global positioning system for outdoor evidence location.

CAD Software

Creates 2D and 3D diagrams of crime scenes.

3D Scanning

Digital documentation providing virtual scene access.

Final Survey

Last check of the scene before release.

Releasing the Scene

Final step in crime scene processing.

Photography Equipment

Tools used for capturing crime scene images.

Types of Photographs

Various categories including close-up and evidence photos.

Photographing a Dead Body

Specific types of images required for documentation.

Integrity of Photographs

Maintaining original images without deletion.

Narrated Videography

Video with spoken commentary for clarity.

Silent Videography

Video without audio elements.

Scales in Photography

Used to provide size reference in images.

Barrier & Pass Filters

Used to enhance photographic evidence quality.

Sketching Equipment

Tools required for creating crime scene sketches.

Compass Rose

Indicates direction in a scene sketch.

Case Identifiers

Unique identifiers for each crime scene case.

Weather Conditions

Environmental factors noted during investigation.

Lighting Conditions

Illumination status affecting scene visibility.

Witness Perspectives

Photographs capturing views from witnesses.

Bystander Photographs

Images taken by non-involved individuals.

Evidence Photographs

Images focusing on specific items of evidence.

Full Body Photograph

Image capturing the entire body of a victim.

Injury Documentation

Photographs showing wounds or trauma on victims.

Tattoos and Scars

Specific features documented for identification purposes.

Digital Case File

Electronic storage of case-related notes and images.

Negative Conditions

Unexpected factors affecting the investigation process.

Supplemental Plans of Action

Additional strategies based on case specifics.

Final Survey Checklist

List of items to verify before scene release.

Photograph Management Systems

Software for organizing and validating crime scene images.