Question

A Forensic Investigator is called to the scene of a mysterious death. Which of the following things should a forensic investigator do to process a crime scene?

a) Secure and isolate the crime scene.

b) Gather eyewitness accounts before securing the scene.

c) Skip documentation and directly collect physical evidence.

d) Allow unrestricted access to the crime scene.

Answer 1

The correct procedure a forensic investigator should follow is to secure and isolate the crime scene. This step is fundamental in preserving evidence and ensuring that it can be analyzed accurately, an important part of the forensic scientist's work.

Step-by-step explanation:

To process a crime scene, a forensic investigator should adhere to specific protocols that are critical for the collection of evidence and the overall investigation. Among the options provided:

• (a) Secure and isolate the crime scene is the correct action for a forensic investigator to take. It is crucial to prevent contamination and maintain the integrity of the scene.
• (b) While gathering eyewitness accounts is important, it should not compromise the security of the crime scene.
• (c) Documentation is an essential step before collecting physical evidence, as it ensures that all evidence is recorded in its original context.
• (d) Restricting access to the crime scene is necessary to prevent evidence tampering or loss.

A forensic scientist's work involves analyzing samples such as hair, blood, and other body fluids, as well as processing DNA. This requires a strong background in sciences like chemistry and biology. Their findings may be used in court, so it's important that they follow rigorous procedures from the onset of the investigation.