Final answer:
The statement is false. The first officer to arrive must document everything observed at the scene to preserve it in its original state as evidence integrity is crucial for investigations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the first officer to arrive is responsible for protecting the scene does not have to document what he sees and if the scene is altered is false. In law enforcement and criminal investigation, the first responding officer has a critical role in protecting the crime scene.
Part of this responsibility includes documenting everything observed as soon as possible after arrival, as the scene must be preserved in its original state to the greatest extent possible. Any alterations to the scene can potentially contaminate the evidence and thus harm the investigation.
For example, imagine a car accident where initial observations can provide crucial information for the investigation.
Similarly, in situations involving potential criminal activity, such as a neighbor suspected of theft, observations can inform decisions and should be meticulously documented for further investigation.