Crime Scene Terms

Areas that have been altered or contaminated by the suspect.

Officers have advanced crime scene investigation training and extensive photography skills to help in the processing of the scenes, including serious cases such as homicides.

Route taken by first responders, and subsequent personnel, to enter the scene to prevent the destruction of any trace evidence found in the surrounding area.

Site from which the perpetrator is suspected to have entered the scene.

Site suspected to have been taken by the perpetrator to leave the crime scene.

Route taken through the scene from the point of entry to the point of exit.

Officers with special training (especially in photography) that are in charge of smaller, less complicated scenes such as break and enters. These officers can also be trained specially for investigative skills such as traffic reconstruction, underwater recovery, drug officers, K-9 handlers, etc.