Preliminary Investigation Guidelines

Preliminary investigation stages the platform for the foundation of criminal investigation with the effectiveness of the process tends to being highly dependent on how each stage in the framework is accomplished. The first responding officer is in most situations best placed in setting into motion the framework for preliminary investigation. The first step is to determine whether an offense has taken place. Once arriving at the scene, do not move around without care. You must decide how to approach the scene with consideration of entry and exit points. Make sure that you have communicated with the first detective or officer before a survey is conducted. As you survey the scene, take mental (and written) notes. If there is fragile evidence, be sure to take care in collecting the evidence. Crime scene photos, or “work photos” to limit scene intrusion should also be taken. The investigator should also stop and observe the area as a whole, noting everything possible before entering the actual crime scene for the detailed examination. Entrance to the crime scene should be limited to only the investigator, detective supervisor and the first officers, whom are there to confirm death and observe scene conditions