POLICY STATEMENT
Crime Scene Assessment
SU Policy Number: 404-410.0
ORIGINATING OFFICE
Department of Public Safety
PURPOSE
To specify procedures concerning initial processing of crime scenes in preparation for collecting physical
evidence
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this General Order is to establish clear guidelines in the collection and preservation of
evidence.
DEFINITIONS
PHYSICAL EVIDENCE: Physical evidence includes any and all objects that can establish that a crime has
been committed. Physical evidence can provide a link between a crime and its victim or a crime and its
perpetrator. This evidence, when presented in a court of law, will assist in determining the truth about a
fact in question.
POLICY
Any item at the crime scene that can be used to solve what occurred constitutes physical evidence. The
process of collecting physical evidence includes evaluating the crime scene, photographing and
sketching the scene, searching for evidence, and properly collecting and preserving the evidence. To
ensure this process is proper and effective, employees collecting evidence will follow the procedures
listed in this order.
PROCEDURES
PROTECTION OF THE CRIME SCENE:
1. The crime scene is the place from which most physical evidence associated with the crime will be
obtained. It provides the investigating officer with a starting point to determine the identities of the
suspects and victims, and to piece together the circumstances of what happened during the crime.
2. Duties of the first officer on the scene:
a. Self-Protection- be sure the scene is clear of suspects or that the suspects are secure
b. Render aid to all persons in need
c. Secure and protect the scene by:
i. Keeping everyone out of the crime scene who is not directly involved with the investigation
