Final answer:
The toughest part about securing a crime scene or collecting evidence is the potential for contamination and tampering, which can compromise the integrity of the evidence. To secure a crime scene, the first step is to establish a perimeter to prevent unauthorized access. Once the scene is secured, evidence collection should begin, starting with photographs and sketches to document the scene as it was found.
Step-by-step explanation:
The toughest part about securing a crime scene or collecting evidence is the potential for contamination and tampering, which can compromise the integrity of the evidence. To secure a crime scene, the first step is to establish a perimeter to prevent unauthorized access. Once the scene is secured, evidence collection should begin, starting with photographs and sketches to document the scene as it was found.
Next, physical evidence should be collected using proper techniques and equipment, such as gloves and evidence bags. This can include things like fingerprints, DNA samples, weapons, or any other items that may be relevant to the crime. It is important to handle the evidence carefully to avoid contamination and preserve its integrity.
Lastly, maintaining a chain of custody is crucial to ensuring the admissibility of the evidence in court. This involves documenting every transfer or handling of the evidence, so that its integrity can be verified and its authenticity can be established.