Crime Scene Report Notes

Crime Scene Report Overview

The Crime Scene Report for Methods of Scene Investigation (4FO511) and Crime Scene Investigation for Policing (6CJ551) has a structured approach to effectively document and analyze a crime scene. It emphasizes both collaboration and individual contributions, detailing expectations for assessment and compilation of the report.

Assessment Structure

The report consists of two primary components:

  1. Scene Investigation (30%)

    • Mandatory attendance at the crime scene is essential to pass.

    • The investigation is conducted in small groups of four.

  2. Scene Statement Report (70%)

    • Each student must submit an individual report reflective of their group’s findings.

    • The report is due for Turnitin submission between May 6th and 7th, 2025.

General Assessment Criteria

The summative assessment focuses on multiple facets of crime scene investigation:

  • Documentation (notes, sketches, photographs) (10 points)

  • Examination of the scene and recovery of items/traces (10 points)

  • Methodologies used (10 points)

  • Chronological sequence of events and circumstantial information (5 points)

  • Description of the scene and documentation (20 points combined)

  • Writing style emphasizing scientific structure and appropriate referencing (5 points)

Scene Statement Report Components

The report is structured as follows:

  1. Relevant Circumstantial Information
    This section includes case number, location, and detailed accounts, such as witness information and the timeline of events.

    • Essential to include all pertinent facts and their chronology which contextualizes the investigation.

  2. Purpose of Examination
    Clarifies the mandate for investigation including objectives and timeframe.

  3. Crime Scene Investigators
    A list documenting the identities and qualifications of those present at the investigation scene.

  4. Investigation Methodology
    Outlines the methods and risk assessments taken during the investigation. It should reflect forensic principles.

  5. Description of the Scene
    Details on the observations made during the investigation, covering environmental elements such as sounds and smells, as well as physical attributes of the scene (doors, lighting).

    • Ensure to include relevant photographs and labeled sketches for clarity.

  6. Description of Examinations and Recovered Material
    Enumerate the examinations conducted, detailing items recovered, the methods of examination, and the chain of custody for evidence.

    • It is crucial to provide specific descriptions including photographs with relevant captions.

  7. Conclusion
    Summarizes the investigation findings without interpretation, detailing the mission objectives and evaluation of collected traces.

  8. Appendix
    Contains supplementary materials supporting the report, well-organized and correctly referenced.

Writing Style and Presentation

The report must maintain a professional presentation and adhere to forensic standards, employing scientific language that avoids jargon. This ensures clarity and credibility, especially when communicated to legal authorities (judges, prosecutors).

Practical Exercise: Scene Investigation Case Study

An example case involves the investigation of a male body discovered in Allestree Park. The reporting on this incident would require detailed documentation following the aforementioned structure, allowing the students to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical scenario toward their final submission.