Crime Scene Investigation - A Guide For Law Enforcement

Physical evidence has the potential to play a critical role in the overall investigation and resolution of a suspected criminal act. Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for Law Enforcement published by the DOJ's National Institute of Justice, discusses the fundamental principles of investigating a crime scene and preserving evidence that need to be practiced in order to yield reliable information. This research report is intended for use by law enforcement and other responders who have responsibilities for protecting crime scenes, preserving physical evidence, and collecting and submitting the evidence for scientific examination.

This guide is intended for use by law enforcement and other responders * who have responsibility for protecting crime scenes, preserving physical evidence, and collecting and submitting the evidence for scientific examination. Physical evidence has the potential to play a critical role in the overall investigation and resolution of a suspected criminal act. Realization of this potential depends on actions taken early in the criminal investigation at the crime scene. Developments in technology and improvements in the analysis and interpretation
of physical evidence recovered from crime scenes will place even greater
importance on properly documented and preserved evidence. An important factor influencing the ultimate legal significance of this scientific evidence is that investigators follow an objective, thorough, and thoughtful approach. The goal of this process is to recognize and preserve physical evidence that will yield reliable information to aid in the investigation.