Determining the Dimensions of the Homicide Crime Scene

This section focuses on the crucial steps in identifying and securing the crime scene perimeter. The cardinal rule emphasized is to protect and preserve the crime scene. The process involves verifying the victim's death, finding physical evidence, and taping off the crime scene boundaries.

The text provides guidance on how to determine the boundaries of a crime scene, emphasizing the importance of clearing the largest area possible and considering factors such as location, presence of evidence, eyewitness statements, and natural boundaries.

Highlight: When possible, maintain an outer perimeter around a crime scene of at least the largest area that can be reasonably secured.

The chapter also addresses the importance of protecting the crime scene from unauthorized access and lists potential areas that should not be overlooked, such as points of forced entry, routes of escape, and the suspect's clothing and body.

Example: Areas to protect in a complex crime may include the suspect's residence, the location from which the body was moved, and the vehicle used in the crime.

The Crime Scene Sign-in Sheet and Preliminary Investigation

This section introduces the concept of a crime scene sign-in sheet as an effective tool for securing the crime scene and preserving evidence. It explains that the purpose of this measure is to stop unauthorized personnel from entering the scene.

The text suggests establishing two crime scenes as a solution to potential issues:

1. Primary - the real scene
2. Secondary - a secure area to allow people to feel involved without compromising the actual crime scene

The chapter then outlines the steps of the preliminary investigation at the primary crime scene, which includes:

1. Investigator walkthrough
2. Gathering information from responding officers
3. Verifying the condition of the victim
4. Ensuring the primary crime scene is intact

Highlight: The walk-through allows investigators to get a feel for what happened and establish crucial consistencies and inconsistencies that will guide the direction of the investigation.

Example: During the preliminary investigation, investigators may identify additional areas that need protection or evidence that needs to be collected.

The text concludes by emphasizing that the most important aspect of the primary crime scene is the presentation of the body, as it provides crucial information for the investigation.

Quote: "If anything can go wrong, it will be at the crime scene."