What does crime scene investigator do?

What Does a Crime Scene Investigator Do?

Crime scene investigators, also known as forensic scientists or crime scene analysts, play a crucial role in the criminal justice system. They are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and preserving evidence from crime scenes to help investigators solve crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. In this article, we will delve into the duties and responsibilities of a crime scene investigator, highlighting the most important aspects of their job.

Collecting Evidence

**Evidence Collection Techniques**

Crime scene investigators use various techniques to collect evidence from crime scenes, including:

• Fingerprinting: Collecting fingerprints from surfaces, objects, and individuals to identify suspects or victims.
• Photography: Documenting the crime scene, including photographs of the area, objects, and any visible evidence.
• Video Recording: Recording the crime scene, including video footage of the area, objects, and any visible evidence.
• Swabbing: Collecting DNA evidence from surfaces, objects, and individuals.
• Sampling: Collecting physical evidence, such as hair, fibers, and other materials.

Analyzing Evidence

**Evidence Analysis**

Once evidence is collected, crime scene investigators analyze it in a laboratory setting to determine its relevance to the investigation. This includes:

• Fingerprint Analysis: Comparing collected fingerprints to those in databases or from known individuals.
• DNA Analysis: Analyzing DNA samples to identify individuals or determine relationships between individuals.
• Chemical Analysis: Testing substances for drugs, explosives, or other harmful materials.
• Microscopy: Examining evidence under a microscope to identify characteristics, such as fibers or hair.

Preserving Evidence

**Evidence Preservation**

Crime scene investigators are responsible for preserving evidence to ensure its integrity and admissibility in court. This includes:

• Securing the Crime Scene: Containing the crime scene to prevent contamination or loss of evidence.
• Labeling and Packaging: Labeling and packaging evidence to prevent mix-ups or contamination.
• Storage: Storing evidence in a secure, climate-controlled environment to prevent degradation.

Collaboration with Other Agencies

**Collaboration with Other Agencies**

Crime scene investigators often work with other agencies, including:

• Law Enforcement: Collaborating with police officers and detectives to gather information and evidence.
• Prosecutors: Providing evidence and expert testimony to support criminal charges.
• Defendants’ Attorneys: Providing evidence and expert testimony to support the defense.

Skills and Qualifications

**Skills and Qualifications**

To become a crime scene investigator, one typically needs:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A degree in a field such as forensic science, biology, chemistry, or criminal justice.
• Certification: Certification as a crime scene investigator or forensic scientist.
• Training: Ongoing training and professional development to stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies.
• Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail and ability to analyze complex evidence.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication skills to work with other agencies and present evidence in court.

Table: Crime Scene Investigator’s Responsibilities

In conclusion, crime scene investigators play a vital role in the criminal justice system. Their duties and responsibilities include collecting, analyzing, and preserving evidence, as well as collaborating with other agencies and staying up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies. With the right skills and qualifications, crime scene investigators can help investigators solve crimes and bring perpetrators to justice.