Evidence Team Notes

A crime scene processing unit requires a well-organized, logic-based operation with a clear division of tasks to minimize duplication of effort.

Assumes control and directs access to the site.
Responsible for the overall operation of the search and recovery of evidence, including:
- determining site boundaries,
- choosing the search method,
- assigning personnel to various tasks,
- coordinating all groups involved in investigating the crime and processing the scene (medical examiners, police responders, investigators, fire personnel, evidence technicians, and various specialists).
Since processing may change as new evidence is found, the team leader must continuously reevaluate ongoing work and make appropriate changes.
When work is completed, the team leader releases the site back to its owners or to public use.

Documents the site both before processing begins and as evidence is collected.
Requires wide-view photographs of large portions of the scene and close-up photographs to show detail.
Must record a known scale marker in each photograph to provide size information.
When a piece of evidence is found (including fingerprints and impressions), it must be photographed before collection.
Each photograph must be logged so it can be placed into the context of the entire scene and entered as part of the evidence.
The photographer should inconspicuously photograph bystanders or people watching the events; this can lead to potential suspects and witnesses.

Prepares a detailed map of the scene using site measurements and evidence-location techniques described earlier.
Typically starts with a rough sketch showing dimensions, orientations, and locations of the evidence.
This rough sketch forms the basis of a finished drawing, usually prepared later and often using computer-based techniques.

Technicians search, locate, collect, and package evidence for transportation to the lab.
Each piece of evidence found must be logged and photographed before collection.
They record a description of the piece, carefully label the item, and ensure proper packaging.
These technicians begin the chain of custody record of the item as they hand it over for delivery to the evidence recorder for transportation.
Technicians must be keenly aware of any possible hazards associated with the evidence and exercise proper techniques for the safe collection of material.

The team works with medical examiners, police responders, investigators, fire personnel, and other specialists.
The processing plan may change as new evidence is found; the team leader reevaluates and adjusts assignments.
All actions are coordinated to maintain scene integrity and evidentiary admissibility.

Photographs must be logged with context to place them within the broader scene.
Each piece of evidence must be logged, described, labeled, and properly packaged for transport.
A continuous chain of custody is established as items move from the scene to the laboratory.

Technicians must assess hazards and use proper techniques to avoid contamination or injury.
Photographing bystanders is sensitive; ethics and privacy considerations are important, even though photographing bystanders can aid in identifying suspects or witnesses.

Emphasizes an orderly, evidence-driven approach to crime-scene processing.
Highlights the importance of thorough documentation, traceability, and inter-agency coordination for evidentiary integrity.