NCJ Number
193980
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 29 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2002 Pages: 24-28
Date Published
2002
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article establishes a standard imaging protocol for photographing the crime scene.
Abstract
The purpose of the preliminary imagery is to yield an unbiased and high quality visual documentation of the crime scene when it is first observed by the investigator and/or the image-maker. The preliminary photographs of the uncontaminated scene can give the most information and best understanding of the scene. A standard imaging protocol for any type of crime scene might involve the following: (1) location establishment imagery, are external, overall views show the location of the building or vehicle that contains the immediate area of the crime. This is done in a standard manner with a normal angle lens, and should contain overlapping views beginning from the extreme right-most view and progressing to the extreme left-most view; (2) progressive intrusion imagery area images taken from the viewpoint of the investigating officer as he or she progresses into the immediate scene; (3) Immediate victim/scene of a crime area are a series of imagery similar to those taken outside once the investigator is in the immediate area of the crime; (4) medium and close-up views of victim or proof of crime show the effects of the crime on the subject in question; and (5) witness viewpoint imagery are images made at the approximate eye level of the witness from the vantage point of the witness. As the investigation continues other evidence may be discovered inside closets, under furniture, and beneath bodies. As this type of new secondary evidence is discovered, it should be located in place by imaging. Finally, the scene should be imaged immediately prior to vacating (with at least overall views). These images reflect conditions of the scene upon leaving and also document final placement of all objects that may have been moved in a scene. This type of imagery can be instrumental is assessing the value of any future damage litigation that may develop.