A crime scene is a location where an illegal act took place, and comprises the area from which most of the physical evidence is retrieved by forensic scientists. (Web,1)
Crime Scene Photography & Sketches
Procedure
1. The photographs of a crime scene shall be made by a patrol CSI or Criminalistics technician.
2. The individual in charge of a crime scene shall determine whether the completion of a sketch is indicated based on the complexities of the investigation and the nature of the photographs taken.
3. Crime scene sketches shall include accurate dimensions, identifying characteristics such as address or room number, location of fixed and movable objects including victims, if any, location of evidence, compass direction arrows, and the date, time, and name of the investigator completing the rough sketch.
4. When a crime scene sketch is made, it shall include accurate measurements of all fixtures, locations, and physical evidence noted. A qualified draftsperson shall prepare a final drawing, to scale, for court presentation.
5.Major and some minor crime scenes shall be photographed to record the condition of the scene as found.
6.Photography used in investigations is frequently a time-limited activity in which there is only one opportunity to correctly complete the task. Depending on the nature of the crime, incident or documentation required, conditions may dictate the selection and use of equipment and techniques.
Conventional film-based cameras are recommended for use as the primary image capture device. Digital still imaging can be used when the performance of the equipment can be shown to meet the anticipated needs.
Photography & Imaging Formats
Procedure
Unprocessed film and digital photography, created by the department in a criminal investigation or which is related to a case report number, will be promptly submitted to the Criminalistics Unit for processing, archiving, and filing under the.......
