FBI Behavorial Sciences Unit

[William Kelly]

Title: Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for Law Enforcement.Series: Research ReportAuthor: Technical Working Group on Crime Scene InvestigationPublished: January 2000Subject: Criminal investigation

Technical Working Group on Crime Scene Investigation The Technical Working Group on Crime Scene Investigation (TWGCSI) is a multidisciplinary group of content-area experts from across the United States, from both urban and rural jurisdictions, each representing his or her respectiveagency or practice. As a result, NIJ initiated the Technical Working Group on Crime SceneInvestigation to develop recommended practices for crime scene management.

Origin of the National Crime Scene Planning Panel and the Technical Working Group on Crime Scene Investigation In the spring of 1998, the American Society of Crime LaboratoryDirectors/Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB) and ASCLD supported the principle of NIJ's establishment of TWGCSI. The NIJ Directorselected an 11-member planning panel called the National Crime ScenePlanning Panel (NCSPP). The NCSPP members represent independent, multidisciplinary organizations whose constituents are responsible for investigating, evaluating, and analyzing evidence from crime scenes. The rationale for their involvement was twofold: they represent the diversity of the professional disciplines and each organization is a key stakeholder in theconduct of crime scene investigations and the implementation of this guide. Technical Working Group on Crime Scene Investigation.

Crime Scene Investigation: A Guide for Law Enforcement Section A Arriving at the Scene: Initial Response/Prioritization of Efforts Section B Preliminary Documentation and Evaluation of the Scene Section C Processing the Scene Section D Completing and Recording the Crime Scene Investigation Section E Crime Scene Equipment

This handbook is intended as a guide to recommended practices for crimescene investigation. Jurisdictional, logistical, or legal conditions may preclude the use of particular procedures contained herein. For potentially devastating situations, such as biological weapons or radiologicalor chemical threats, the appropriate agencies should be contacted. The user should refer to the National Institute of Justice's publications for fire and arson investigation, bomb and explosives investigation, electronic crime investigation,and death investigation where applicable.

Section A Arriving at the Scene: Initial Response/Prioritization of Efforts

1. Initial Response/Receipt of Information Principle: One of the most important aspects of securing the crime scene is to preserve the scene with minimal contamination* and disturbance of physical evidence.

The initial response to an incident shall be expeditious and methodical. Upon arrival, the officer(s) shall assess the scene and treat theincident as a crime scene.

Policy: The initial responding officer(s)* shall promptly, yet cautiously,approach and enter crime scenes, remaining observant of any persons, vehicles, events, potential evidence, and environmental conditions.

Procedure: The initial responding officer(s) should: a. Note or log dispatch information (e.g., address/location, time, date, type of call, parties involved). b. Be aware of any persons or vehicles leaving the crime scene. c. Approach the scene cautiously, scan the entire area to thoroughly assess the scene, and note any possible secondary crime scenes. Be aware of anypersons and vehicles in the vicinity that may be related to the crime. d. Make initial observations (look, listen, smell) to assess the scene andensure officer safety before proceeding. e. Remain alert and attentive. Assume the crime is ongoing until determined tobe otherwise. f. Treat the location as a crime scene until assessed and determined to beotherwise.

Summary: It is important for the initial responding officer(s) to be observant when approaching, entering, and exiting a crime scene.

2. Safety Procedures Principle: The safety and physical well-being of officers and other individuals,i n and around the crime scene, are the initial responding officer(s') first priority.

Policy: The initial responding officer(s) arriving at the scene shall identify and control any dangerous situations or persons. Procedure: The initial responding officer(s) should: a. Ensure that there is no immediate threat to other responders* --scan areafor sights, sounds, and smells that may present danger to personnel (e.g., hazardous materials such as gasoline, natural gas). If the situation involves a clandestine drug laboratory, biological weapons*, or radiological or chemicalthreats* the appropriate personnel/agency should be contacted prior to entering the scene. b. Approach the scene in a manner designed to reduce risk of harm to officer(s) while maximizing the safety of victims, witnesses, and others in thearea. c. Survey the scene for dangerous persons and control the situation. d. Notify supervisory personnel and call for assistance/backup.

Summary: The control of physical threats will ensure the safety of officers andothers present.

3. Emergency Care Principle: After controlling any dangerous situations or persons, the initialresponding officer(s') next responsibility is to ensure that medical attention isprovided to injured persons while minimizingcontamination of the scene. Policy: The initial responding officer(s) shall ensure that medical attention isprovided with minimal contamination of the scene. Procedure: The initial responding officer(s) should: a. Assess the victim(s) for signs of life and medical needs and provideimmediate medical attention. b. Call for medical personnel. c. Guide medical personnel to the victim to minimize contamination/alterationof the crime scene. d. Point out potential physical evidence to medical personnel, instruct them tominimize contact with such evidence (e.g., ensure that medical personnelpreserve all clothing and personal effects without cutting through bullet holes,knife tears), and document movement of persons or items by medicalpersonnel. e. Instruct medical personnel not to "clean up" the scene and to avoid removalor alteration of items originating from the scene. f. If medical personnel arrived first, obtain the name, unit, and telephonenumber of attending personnel, and the name and location of the medical facility where the victim is to be taken. g. If there is a chance the victim may die, attempt to obtain "dyingdeclaration."* h. Document any statements/comments made by victims, suspects, orwitnesses at the scene. i. If the victim or suspect is transported to a medical facility, send a law enforcement official with the victim or suspect to document any commentsmade and preserve evidence. (If no officers are available to accompany thevictim/suspect, stay at the scene and request medical personnel to preserveevidence and document any comments made by the victim or suspect.)

Summary: Assisting, guiding, and instructing medical personnel during thecare and removal of injured persons will diminish the risk of contamination andloss of evidence.

4. Secure and Control Persons at the Scene Principle: Controlling, identifying, and removing persons at the crime sceneand limiting the number of persons who enter the crime scene and themovement of such persons is an important function of the initial respondingofficer(s) in protecting the crime scene. Policy: The initial responding officer(s) shall identify persons at the crimescene and control their movement. Procedure: The initial responding officer(s) should: a. Control all individuals at the scene--prevent individuals from altering/destroying physical evidence by restricting movement, location, andactivity while ensuring and maintaining safety at the scene. b. Identify all individuals at the scene, such as: --Suspects: Secure and separate. --Witnesses: Secure and separate. --Bystanders: Determine whether witness, if so treat as above, if not,remove from the scene. --Victims/family/friends: Control while showing compassion. --Medical and other assisting personnel. c. Exclude unauthorized and nonessential personnel from the scene (e.g., lawenforcement officials not working the case, politicians, media).

Summary: Controlling the movement of persons at the crime scene andlimiting the number of persons who enter the crime scene is essential tomaintaining scene integrity, safeguarding evidence, and minimizingcontamination.

5. Boundaries: Identify, Establish, Protect, and Secure Principle: Defining and controlling boundaries provide a means for protectingand securing the crime scene(s). The number of crime scenes and theirboundaries are determined by their location(s) and the type of crime.Boundaries shall be established beyond the initial scope of the crime scene(s)with the understanding that the boundaries can be reduced in size if necessarybut cannot be as easily expanded. Policy: The initial responding officer(s) at the scene shall conduct an initialassessment to establish and control the crime scene(s) and its boundaries. Procedure: The initial responding officer(s) should: a. Establish boundaries of the scene(s), starting at the focal point andextending outward to include: --Where the crime occurred. --Potential points and paths of exit and entry of suspects and witnesses. --Places where the victim/evidence may have been moved --(be aware of trace and impression evidence while assessing the scene). b. Set up physical barriers (e.g., ropes, cones, crime scene barrier tape,available vehicles, personnel, other equipment) or use existing boundaries (e.g.,doors, walls, gates). c. Document the entry/exit of all people entering and leaving the scene, onceboundaries have been established. d. Control the flow of personnel and animals entering and leaving the scene tomaintain integrity of the scene. e. Effect measures to preserve/protect evidence that may be lost or compromised (e.g., protect from the elements (rain, snow, wind) and fromfootsteps, tire tracks, sprinklers). f. Document the original location of the victim or objects that you observebeing moved. g. Consider search and seizure issues to determine the necessity of obtainingconsent to search and/or obtaining a search warrant.

Note: Persons should not smoke, chew tobacco, use the telephone orbathroom, eat or drink, move any items including weapons (unless necessary for the safety and well-being of persons at the scene), adjust the thermostat or open windows or doors (maintain scene as found), touch anything unnecessarily(note and document any items moved), reposition moved items, litter, or spit within the established boundaries of the scene.

Summary: Establishing boundaries is a critical aspect in controlling theintegrity of evidentiary material.

6. Turn Over Control of the Scene and Brief Investigator(s) in Charge Principle: Briefing the investigator(s) taking charge assists in controlling thecrime scene and helps establish further investigative responsibilities. Policy: The initial responding officer(s) at the scene shall provide a detailedcrime scene briefing to the investigator(s) in charge* of the scene.

Procedure: The initial responding officer(s) should: a. Brief the investigator(s) taking charge. b. Assist in controlling the scene. c. Turn over responsibility for the documentation* of entry/exit. d. Remain at the scene until relieved of duty. Summary: The scene briefing is the only opportunity for the next in commandto obtain initial aspects of the crime scene prior to subsequent investigation.

7. Document Actions and Observations Principle: All activities conducted and observations made at the crime scenemust be documented as soon as possible after the event to preserveinformation. Policy: Documentation must be maintained as a permanent record.

Procedure: The initial responding officer(s) should document: a. Observations of the crime scene, including the location of persons and itemswithin the crime scene and the appearance and condition ofthe scene upon arrival. b. Conditions upon arrival (e.g., lights on/off; shades up/down, open/closed;doors, windows, open/closed; smells; ice, liquids; movable furniture; weather;temperature; and personal items.) c. Personal information from witnesses, victims, suspects, and any statementsor comments made. d. Own actions and actions of others.

Summary: The initial responding officer(s) at the crime scene must produceclear, concise, documented information encompassing his or her observationsand actions. This documentation is vital in providing information to substantiateinvestigative considerations.

Section B Preliminary Documentation and Evaluation of the Scene

1. Conduct Scene Assessment Principle: Assessment of the scene by the investigator(s) in charge* allows forthe determination of the type of incident to be investigated and the level of investigation to be conducted. Policy: The investigator(s) in charge shall identify specific responsibilities, share preliminary information, and develop investigative plans in accordance with departmental policy and local, State, and Federal laws.

Procedure: The investigator(s)* in charge should: a. Converse with the first responder(s)* regarding observations/activities. b. Evaluate safety issues that may affect all personnel entering the scene(s) (e.g., bloodborne pathogens*, hazards). c. Evaluate search and seizure issues to determine the necessity of obtainingconsent to search and/or obtaining a search warrant. d. Evaluate and establish a path of entry/exit to the scene to be utilized byauthorized personnel. e. Evaluate initial scene boundaries.* f. Determine the number/size of scene(s) and prioritize. g. Establish a secure area within close proximity to the scene(s) for thepurpose of consultation and equipment staging. h. If multiple scenes exist, establish and maintain communication withpersonnel at those locations. i. Establish a secure area for temporary evidence storage in accordance withrules of evidence/chain of custody.* j. Determine and request additional investigative resources as required (e.g.,personnel/specialized units, legal consultation/prosecutors, equipment). k. Ensure continued scene integrity (e.g., document entry/exit of authorizedpersonnel, prevent unauthorized access to the scene). l. Ensure that witnesses to the incident are identified and separated (e.g.,obtain valid ID). m. Ensure the surrounding area is canvassed and the results are documented. n. Ensure preliminary documentation*/photography of the scene, injured persons, and vehicles.

Summary: Scene assessment allows for the development of a plan for thecoordinated identification, collection*, and preservation of physical evidenceand identification of witnesses. It also allows for the exchange of informationamong law enforcement personnel and the development of investigativestrategies.

2. Conduct Scene "Walk-Through" and Initial Documentation Principle: The scene "walk-through"* provides an overview of the entire scene, identifies any threats to scene integrity, and ensures protection of physicalevidence. Written and photographic documentation provides a permanentrecord.

Policy: The investigator(s) in charge shall conduct a walk-through of the scene. The walk-through shall be conducted with individuals responsible for processing the scene. Procedure: During the scene walk-through, the investigator(s) in charge should: a. Avoid contaminating the scene by using the established path of entry. b. Prepare preliminary documentation of the scene as observed. c. Identify and protect fragile and/or perishable evidence (e.g., considerclimatic conditions, crowds/hostile environment). Ensure that all evidence thatmay be compromised is immediately documented, photographed, and collected.

Summary: Conducting a scene walk-through provides the investigator(s) incharge with an overview of the entire scene. The walk-through provides the firstopportunity to identify valuable and/or fragile evidence and determine initialinvestigative procedures, providing for a systematic examination anddocumentation of the scene. Written and photographic documentation recordsthe condition of the scene as first observed, providing a permanent record.

Section C Processing the Scene

1. Determine Team Composition Principle: Based on the type of incident and complexity of the scene, theinvestigator(s) in charge* shall determine team composition. Trained personnelshall perform scene processing. Policy: The investigator(s) in charge shall assess the scene to determinespecialized resources required. Procedure: Following the walk-through*, the investigator(s) in charge should: a. Assess the need for additional personnel. Be aware of the need foradditional personnel in cases of multiple scenes*, multiple victims, numerous witnesses, or other circumstances. b. Assess forensic needs and call forensic specialists to the scene for expertise and/or equipment. c. Ensure that scene security and the entry/exit documentation* are continued. d. Select qualified person(s) to perform specialized tasks (e.g., photography, sketch, latent prints*, evidence collection*). e. Document team members* and assignments.

Summary: The scene(s) assessment determines the number of personnel andhow responsibilities will be assigned.

2. Contamination Control Principle: Contamination* control and preventing cross-contamination* at singleor multiple scenes is essential to maintaining the safety of personnel and theintegrity of evidence.

Policy: The investigator(s) in charge shall require all personnel to follow procedures to ensure scene safety and evidence integrity. Procedure: Other responders* and/or team members should: a. Limit scene access to people directly involved in scene processing. b. Follow established entry/exit routes at the scene. c. Identify first responders* and consider collection of elimination samples.* d. Designate secure area for trash and equipment. e. Use personal protective equipment (PPE)* to prevent contamination ofpersonnel and to minimize scene contamination. f. Clean/sanitize* or dispose of tools/equipment and personal protective equipment between evidence collections and/or scenes. g. Utilize single-use equipment* when performing direct collection of biological samples.

Summary: Minimize contamination by being safe, clean, and careful to ensurethe welfare of personnel and the integrity of the evidence.

3. Documentation Principle: An assessment of the scene determines what kind of documentation is needed (e.g., photography, video, sketches, measurements, notes).

Policy: The investigator(s) in charge shall ensure documentation of the scene. Procedure: The team member(s) should: a. Review assessment of the scene to determine the type of documentationneeded. b. Coordinate photographs, video, sketches, measurements, and notes. c. Photograph: Scene utilizing overall, medium, and close-up coverage. Evidence to be collected with and without measurement scale* and/orevidence identifiers.* Victims, suspects, witnesses, crowd, and vehicles. Additional perspectives (e.g., aerial photographs, witness' view, area underbody once body is removed). d. Videotape as optional supplement to photos. e. Prepare preliminary sketch(es) and measure: Immediate area of the scene, noting case identifiers* and indicating north onthe sketch. --Relative location of items of evidence and correlate evidence items withevidence records. --Evidence prior to movement. --Rooms, furniture, or other objects. --Distance to adjacent buildings or other landmarks. f. Generate notes at the scene: --Documenting location of the scene, time of arrival, and time of departure. --Describing the scene as it appears. --Recording transient evidence* (e.g., smells, sounds, sights) and conditions (e.g., temperature, weather). --Documenting circumstances that require departures from usual procedures.

Summary: A well-documented scene ensures the integrity of the investigationand provides a permanent record for later evaluation.

4. Prioritize Collection of Evidence Principle: Prioritize the collection of evidence to prevent loss, destruction, orcontamination. Policy: The investigator(s) in charge and team members shall determine theorder in which evidence is collected. Procedure: The team member(s) should: a. Conduct a careful and methodical evaluation considering all physical evidence possibilities (e.g., biological fluids*, latent prints, trace evidence*). b. Focus first on the easily accessible areas in open view and proceed toout-of-view locations. c. Select a systematic search pattern for evidence collection based on the sizeand location of the scene(s). d. Select a progression of processing/collection methods so that initialtechniques do not compromise subsequent processing/collections methods. --Concentrate on the most transient evidence and work to the leasttransient forms of physical evidence. --Move from least intrusive to most intrusive processing/collection methods. e. Continually assess environmental and other factors that may affect theevidence. f. Be aware of multiple scenes (e.g., victims, suspects, vehicles, locations). g. Recognize other methods that are available to locate, technically document,and collect* evidence (e.g., alternate light source*, enhancement, blood patterndocumentation, projectile trajectory analysis*).

Summary: Prioritization provides for the timely and methodical preservationand collection of evidence.

5. Collect, Preserve, Inventory, Package, Transport, and Submit Evidence Principle: The handling of physical evidence is one of the most important factors of the investigation.

Policy: The team member(s) shall ensure the effective collection, preservation, packaging, and transport of evidence.

Procedure: The team member(s) should: a. Maintain scene security throughout processing and until the scene isreleased. b. Document the collection of evidence by recording its location at the scene,date of collection, and who collected it. c. Collect each item identified as evidence. d. Establish chain of custody.* e. Obtain standard/reference samples* from the scene. f. Obtain control samples.* g. Consider obtaining elimination samples. h. Immediately secure electronically recorded evidence (e.g., answering machine tapes, surveillance camera videotapes, computers) from the vicinity. i. Identify and secure evidence in containers (e.g., label, date, initial container)at the crime scene. Different types of evidence require different containers (e.g.,porous*, nonporous*, crushproof). j. Package items to avoid contamination and cross-contamination. k. Document the condition of firearms/weapons prior to rendering them safe for transportation and submission. l. Avoid excessive handling of evidence after it is collected. m. Maintain evidence at the scene in a manner designed to diminishdegradation or loss. n. Transport and submit evidence items for secure storage.

Summary: Evidence at crime scenes that is in the process of documentation, collection, preservation, or packaging should be handled with attention to scene integrity and protection from contamination or deleterious change. During the processing of the scene, and following documentation, evidence should be appropriately packaged, labeled, and maintained in a secure, temporary manneruntil final packaging and submission to a secured evidence storage facility or the crime laboratory.

Section D Completing and Recording the Crime Scene Investigation 1. Establish Crime Scene Debriefing Team Principle: The crime scene debriefing enables law enforcement personnel andother responders* to share information regarding particular scene findings priorto releasing the scene. It provides an opportunity for input regarding followup investigation, special requests for assistance, and the establishment of post-scene responsibilities.

Policy: Law enforcement personnel and other responders shall participate inor initiate a crime scene debriefing to ensure the crime scene investigation iscomplete and to verify post-scene responsibilities.

Procedure: The investigator(s) in charge* of the crime scene should establish acrime scene debriefing team. When participating in a scene debriefing, lawenforcement personnel and other responders should: a. Establish a crime scene debriefing team, which includes the investigator(s) in charge of the crime scene, other investigators and evidence collection*personnel (e.g., photographers, evidence technicians, latent print personnel, specialized personnel, and initial responding officer(s)* if still present). b. Determine what evidence was collected. c. Discuss preliminary scene findings with team members.* d. Discuss potential technical forensic testing and the sequence of tests to beperformed. e. Initiate any action(s) identified in discussion required to complete the crimescene investigation. f. Brief person(s) in charge upon completion of assigned crime scene tasks. g. Establish post-scene responsibilities for law enforcement personnel and otherresponders.

Summary: The crime scene debriefing is the best opportunity for law enforcement personnel and other responders to ensure that the crime sceneinvestigation is complete.

2. Perform Final Survey of the Crime Scene Principle: Final survey of the crime scene ensures that evidence has beencollected and the scene has been processed prior to release. In addition, a systematic review of the scene ensures that evidence, equipment, or materialsgenerated by the investigation are not inadvertently left behind and anydangerous materials or conditions have been reported and addressed.

Policy: The investigator(s) in charge shall direct a walk-through* at theconclusion of the scene investigation and ensure that the scene investigation is complete.

Procedure: The investigator(s) in charge should ensure that: a. Each area identified as part of the crime scene is visually inspected. b. All evidence collected at the scene is accounted for. c. All equipment and materials generated by the investigation are removed. d. Any dangerous materials or conditions are reported and addressed. e. The crime scene is released in accordance with jurisdictional requirements.

Summary: Conducting a scene walk-through ensures that all evidence has been collected, that materials are not inadvertently left behind, and that anydangerous materials or conditions have been reported and addressed.

3. Documentation of the Crime Scene Principle: Reports and other documentation* pertaining to the crime sceneinvestigation shall be compiled into a "case file"* by the investigator(s) in charge of the crime scene. This file shall be a record of the actions taken and evidencecollected at the scene. This documentation shall allow for independent review ofthe work conducted.

Policy: The investigator(s) in charge shall ensure that reports and otherdocumentation pertaining to the crime scene investigation are compiled. Procedure: The investigator(s) in charge should obtain the following for the crime scene case file: a. Initial responding officer(s') documentation. b. Emergency medical personnel documents. c. Entry/exit documentation. d. Photographs/videos. e. Crime scene sketches/diagrams. f. Evidence documentation. g. Other responders' documentation. h. Record of consent form or search warrant. i. Reports such as forensic/technical reports should be added to this file whenthey become available.

Note: The above list is limited to crime scene documentation. This should notbe considered a comprehensive list of the documents involved in aninvestigative case file.

Summary: This will ensure that reports and other documentation pertaining tothe crime scene investigation are compiled into a case file by the investigator(s)in charge of the crime scene and allow for independent review of the work conducted. -

Section E Crime Scene Equipment

1. Initial Responding Officer(s) Essential* Consent/search forms.Crime scene barricade tape. First-aid kit. Flares. Flashlight and extra batteries. Paper bags. Personal protective equipment (PPE). * These items should be in police vehicles or readily available to initial responding officer(s). Optional Audiotape recorder. Camera with flash and extra film. Chalk. Directional marker/compass. Disinfectant. Maps. Plastic bags. Pocket knife. Reflective vest. Tape measure. Tarps to protect evidence from the weather. Traffic cones. Waterless hand wash (towelette with germicide). Wireless phone.

2. Crime Scene Investigator/Evidence Technician Essential* Bindle paper. Biohazard bags. Body fluid collection kit. Camera (35 mm) with flash/film/tripod. Casting materials.Consent/search forms. Crime scene barricade tape.Cutting instruments (knives, box cutter, scalpel, scissors). Directional marker/compass. Disinfectant. Evidence collection containers. Evidence identifiers. Evidence seals/tape.First-aid kit. Flashlight and extra batteries. High-intensity lights. Latent print kit. Magnifying glass. Measuring devices. Permanent markers. Personal protective equipment (PPE).Photographic scale (ruler). Presumptive blood test supplies.Sketch paper.Tool kit.Tweezers/forceps. * These items should be in police vehicles or readily available to initialresponding officer(s). Optional Audiotape recorder. Bloodstain pattern examination kit. Business cards. Chalk. Chemical enhancement supplies. Entomology (insect) collection kit. Extension cords. Flares. Forensic light source (alternate light source, UV lamp/laser, goggles). Generator. Gunshot residue kit. Laser trajectory kit. Maps. Marking paint/snow wax. Metal detector. Mirror. Phone listing (important numbers). Privacy screens. Protrusion rod set. Reflective vest. Refrigeration or cooling unit.Respirators with filters.Roll of string.Rubber bands. Sexual assault evidence collection kit (victim and suspect). Shoe print lifting equipment. Templates (scene and human). Thermometer. Traffic cones. Trajectory rods. Video recorder. Wireless phone.

3. Evidence Collection Kits (Examples) Blood Collection Bindle.Coin envelopes.Disposable scalpels.Distilled water.Ethanol.Evidence identifiers. Latex gloves. Photographic ruler (ABFO scales). Presumptive chemicals.Sterile gauze. Sterile swabs. Test tubes/test tube rack. Bloodstain Pattern Documentation ABFO scales.Calculator.Laser pointer.Permanent markers.Protractor. String.Tape. Excavation Cones/markers.Evidence identifiers.Metal detectors.Paintbrushes.Shovels/trowels.Sifting screens.String.Weights.Wooden/metal stakes. Fingerprint Black and white film.Brushes.Chemical enhancement supplies.Cyanoacrylate (super glue) wand/packets.Flashlight.Forensic light source.Lift cards.Lift tape.Measurement scales. One-to-one camera. Powders. Impression Bowls/mixing containers.Boxes.Dental stone (die stone). Evidence identifiers.Measurement scales.Permanent markers.Snow print wax.Water. Pattern Print Lifter Chemical enhancement supplies.Electrostatic dust lifter.Gel lifter.Wide format lift tape. Toolmarks Casting materials. Trace Evidence Collection Acetate sheet protectors. Bindle paper. Clear tape/adhesive lift. Flashlight (oblique lighting). Forceps/tweezers.Glass vials. Slides and slide mailers. Trace evidence vacuum with disposable collection filters. Trajectory Calculator. Canned smoke. Dummy. Laser. Mirror. Protractor. String.Trajectory rods.

Appendix A. Glossary The definitions contained herein apply to terms as used in this document.

ABFO scales: (American Board of Forensic Odontology scales). An L-shaped piece of plastic used in photography that is marked with circles, black andwhite bars, and 18-percent gray bars to assist in distortion compensation and provide exposure determination. For measurement, the plastic piece is markedin millimeters.

Alternate light source: Equipment used to produce visible and invisible light atvarious wavelengths to enhance or visualize potential items of evidence (fluids,fingerprints, clothing fibers, etc.).

Bindle paper: Clean paper folded to use to contain trace evidence, sometimesincluded as part of the packaging for collecting trace evidence. Biohazard bag: A container for materials that have been exposed to blood orother biological fluids and have the potential to be contaminated with hepatitis,AIDS, or other viruses.

Biological fluids: Fluids that have human or animal origin, most commonlyencountered at crime scenes (e.g., blood, mucus, perspiration, saliva, semen,vaginal fluid, urine).

Biological weapon: Biological agents used to threaten human life (e.g., anthrax,smallpox, or any infectious disease).

Bloodborne pathogen: Infectious, disease-causing microorganisms that may befound or transported in biological fluids. Boundaries: The perimeter or border surrounding potential physical evidencerelated to the crime.

Case file: The collection of documents comprising information concerning aparticular investigation. (This collection may be kept in case jackets, file folders,ring binders, boxes, file drawers, file cabinets, or rooms. Sub-files are oftenused within case files to segregate and group interviews, media coverage,laboratory requests and reports, evidence documentation, photographs,videotapes, audiotapes, and other documents.)

Case identifiers: The alphabetic and/or numeric characters assigned to identify aparticular case.

Chain of custody: A process used to maintain and document the chronological history of the evidence. (Documents should include name or initials of theindividual collecting the evidence, each person or entity subsequently having custody of it, dates the items were collected or transferred, agency and casenumber, victim's or suspect's name, and a brief description of the item.)

Chemical enhancement: The use of chemicals that react with specific types ofevidence (e.g., blood, semen, lead, fingerprints) in order to aid in the detectionand/or documentation of evidence that may be difficult to see.

Chemical threat: Compounds that may pose bodily harm if touched, ingested,inhaled, or ignited. These compounds may be encountered at a clandestinelaboratory, or through a homemade bomb or tankard leakage (e.g., ether,alcohol, nitroglycerin, ammonium sulfate, red phosphorus, cleaning supplies,gasoline, or unlabeled chemicals).

Clean/sanitize: The process of removing biological and/or chemicalcontaminants from tools and/or equipment (e.g., using a mixture of 10-percent household bleach and water).

Collect/collection: The process of detecting, documenting, or retaining physical evidence.

Comparison samples: A generic term used to describe physicalmaterial/evidence discovered at crime scenes that may be compared withsamples from persons, tools, and physical locations. Comparison samples maybe from either an unknown/questioned or a known source.

Samples whose source is unknown/questioned are of three basic types:

1. Recovered crime scene samples whose source is in question (e.g.,evidence left by suspects, victims).

2. Questioned evidence that may have been transferred to an offenderduring the commission of the crime and taken away by him or her. Suchquestioned evidence can be compared with evidence of a known source andcan thereby be associated/linked to a person/vehicle/tool of a crime. 3. Evidence of an unknown/questioned source recovered from severalcrime scenes may also be used to associate multiple offenses that werecommitted by the same person and/or with the same tool or weapon.

Samples whose source is known are of three basic types:

1. A standard/reference sample is material of a verifiable/documented sourcewhich, when compared with evidence of an unknown source, shows anassociation or linkage between an offender, crime scene, and/or victim (e.g., a carpet cutting taken from a location suspected as the point of transfer for comparison with the fibers recovered from the suspect's shoes, a sample ofpaint removed from a suspect vehicle to be compared with paint found on avictim's vehicle following an accident, or a sample of the suspect's and/or victim's blood submitted for comparison with a bloodstained shirt recovered asevidence).

2. A control/blank sample is material of a known source that presumably was uncontaminated during the commission of the crime (e.g., a sample to beused in laboratory testing to ensure that the surface on which the sample isdeposited does not interfere with testing. For example, when a bloodstain iscollected from a carpet, a segment of unstained carpet must be collected foruse as a blank or elimination sample).

3. An elimination sample is one of known source taken from a person whohad lawful access to the scene (e.g., fingerprints from occupants, tire treadimpressions from police vehicles, footwear impressions from emergencymedical personnel) to be used for comparison with evidence of the same type.

Contamination: The unwanted transfer of material from another source to apiece of physical evidence. Control/blank sample: See comparison samples.

Cross-contamination: The unwanted transfer of material between two or moresources of physical evidence.

Documentation: Written notes, audio/videotapes, printed forms, sketchesand/or photographs that form a detailed record of the scene, evidencerecovered, and actions taken during the search of the crime scene.

Dying declaration: Statements made by a person who believes he or she isabout to die, concerning the cause or circumstance surrounding his or herimpending death.

Elimination sample: See comparison samples. Evidence identifiers: Tape, labels, containers, and string tags used to identify the evidence, the person collecting the evidence, the date the evidence wasgathered, basic criminal offense information, and a brief description of the pertinent evidence.

First responder(s): The initial responding law enforcement officer(s) and/orother public safety official(s) or service provider(s) arriving at the scene prior tothe arrival of the investigator(s) in charge.

Impression evidence: Objects or materials that have retained the characteristicsof other objects that have been physically pressed against them.

Initial responding officer(s): The first law enforcement officer(s) to arrive at thescene.

Investigator(s) in charge: The official(s) responsible for the crime sceneinvestigation.

Known: See comparison samples.

Latent print: A print impression not readily visible, made by contact of the hands or feet with a surface resulting in the transfer of materials from the skin tothat surface.

Measurement scale: An object showing standard units of length (e.g., ruler) used in photographic documentation of an item of evidence.

Multiple scenes: Two or more physical locations of evidence associated with acrime (e.g., in a crime of personal violence, evidence may be found at thelocation of the assault and also on the person and clothing of thevictim/assailant, the victim's/assailant's vehicle, and locations the victim/assailant frequents and resides).

Nonporous container: Packaging through which liquids or vapors cannot pass(e.g., glass jars or metal cans).

Other responders: Individuals who are involved in an aspect of the crime scene,such as perimeter security, traffic control, media management, scene processing, and technical support, as well as prosecutors, medical personnel,medical examiners, coroners, forensic examiners, evidence technicians, and fireand rescue officers.

Personal protective equipment (PPE): Articles such as disposable gloves,masks, and eye protection that are utilized to provide a barrier to keepbiological or chemical hazards from contacting the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes and to avoid contamination of the crime scene.

Porous container: Packaging through which liquids or vapors may pass (e.g.,paper bags, cloth bags).

Presumptive test: A nonconfirmatory test used to screen for the presence of asubstance.

Projectile trajectory analysis: The method for determining the path of ahigh-speed object through space (e.g., a bullet emanating from a firearm).

Radiological threat: The pending exposure to radiation energy. (This energy canbe produced by shortwave x-rays or through unstable isotopes.)

Single-use equipment: Items that will be used only once to collect evidence,such as biological samples, then discarded to minimize contamination (e.g.,tweezers, scalpel blades, droppers). Standard/reference sample: See comparison samples.

Team members: Individuals who are called to the scene to assist in investigationor processing of the scene (e.g., scientific personnel from the crime laboratoryor medical examiner's office, other forensic specialists, photographers, massdisaster specialists, experts in the identification of human remains, arson and explosives investigators, clandestine drug laboratory investigators, as well asother experts).

Trace evidence: Physical evidence that results from the transfer of smallquantities of materials (e.g., hair, textile fibers, paint chips, glass fragments,gunshot residue particles).

Transient evidence: Evidence which by its very nature or the conditions at thescene will lose its evidentiary value if not preserved and protected (e.g., bloodin the rain). Unknown/questioned: See comparison samples.

Walk-through: An initial assessment conducted by carefully walking through thescene to evaluate the situation, recognize potential evidence, and determineresources required. Also, a final survey conducted to ensure the scene has beeneffectively and completely processed.

NIJ's links with the international community are being strengthened throughmembership in the United Nations network of criminological institutes;participation in developing the U.N. Criminal Justice Information Network;initiation of UNOJUST (U.N. Online Justice Clearinghouse), whichelectronically links the institutes to the U.N. network; and establishment of an NIJ International Center.

--The NIJ-administered criminal justice information clearinghouse, the world'slargest, has improved its online capability. --NIJ's new Crime Mapping Research Center will provide training in computermapping technology, collect and archive geocoded crime data, and developanalytic software.

--The Institute's program of intramural research has been expanded and enhanced. The Institute Director, who is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, establishes the Institute's objectives, guided by the priorities of theOffice of Justice Programs, the Department of Justice, and the needs of the criminal justice field.

The Institute actively solicits the views of criminal justiceprofessionals and researchers in the continuing search for answers that informpublic policymaking in crime and justice.

For information on the National Institute of Justice, please contact: National Criminal Justice Reference ServiceBox 6000Rockville, MD 20849-6000800-851-3420e-mail: askncjrs@ncjrs.org You can view or obtain an electronic version of this document from the NCJRSJustice Information Center World Wide Web site. To access this site, go to http://www.ncjrs.org If you have questions, call or e-mail NCJRS.

Edited November 9, 2007 by William Kelly

[William Kelly]

Of course in conducting a "Walk Through" of the crime scenes today we cannot initiate the procedures (above) that the Dallas PD should have followed on 11/22/63, but we can make note of them and still identify evidence and witnesses that can be evaluated as to whether it is suitable for admission as evidence in court - grand jury.

Crime Scene #001 - is SS 100X - the limo in which victims 1 JFK and 2 JBC were riding.

Pamela McElwain-Brown (PMB) has previously noted the following:

12:30 - pm - CST - JFK/JBC shot while passing through Dealey Plaza.

12:35 - pm - CST - SS 100X arrives at Parkland Hospital emergency enterance.

12:?? - SS agent Hickey and Dallas PD motorcycle cop wash down seats with bucket of water. Plexiglas top put on.

01:09 - SS 100X taken to Love Field and placed aboard C-130 cargo plane that accompanied AF1 & AF2.

xxxxx - SS 100X flown to Andrews AFB and then delivered to Secret Service garage.

01:00 - 0400 am - 11/23/63 - FBI agents examine SS 100X at SS garage in DC, discover two bullet fragments CE 567 and CE 569

04:30 - pm 11/23/63 - PRS agents Fox and Norton take color photos including CE 352 and CE 353.

Any additional info or corrections would be appreciated.

BK

[William Kelly]

Of course in conducting a "Walk Through" of the crime scenes today we cannot initiate the procedures (above) that the Dallas PD should have followed on 11/22/63, but we can make note of them and still identify evidence and witnesses that can be evaluated as to whether it is suitable for admission as evidence in court - grand jury.

Crime Scene #001 - is SS 100X - the limo in which victims 1 JFK and 2 JBC were riding.

Pamela McElwain-Brown (PMB) has previously noted the following:

12:30 - pm - CST - JFK/JBC shot while passing through Dealey Plaza.

12:35 - pm - CST - SS 100X arrives at Parkland Hospital emergency enterance.

12:?? - SS agent Hickey and Dallas PD motorcycle cop wash down seats with bucket of water. Plexiglas top put on.

01:09 - SS 100X taken to Love Field and placed aboard C-130 cargo plane that accompanied AF1 & AF2.

xxxxx - SS 100X flown to Andrews AFB and then delivered to Secret Service garage.

01:00 - 0400 am - 11/23/63 - FBI agents examine SS 100X at SS garage in DC, discover two bullet fragments CE 567 and CE 569

04:30 - pm 11/23/63 - PRS agents Fox and Norton take color photos including CE 352 and CE 353.

Any additional info or corrections would be appreciated.

BK

[Tim Gratz]

I do not believe it was part of a vast conspiracy but it is indeed incredible how what was at the time only a local crime was taken over by the FBI and part of the "crime scene" (the vehicle) was shipped to DC (as was of course the material confiscated from Mrs. Paine's garage).

Maybe this is a stipid question but did LBJ or JEH ever make an official determination to give the fedsd jurisdiction over the case? Is there record of who ordered the limo flown back to DC?

You would think the Dallas PD might have tried to stop this just as Rose attempted to keep JFK's body in Dallas.

Of course given the sentiment against Dallas I am sure the public would have wanted the investigation at the national level.

[Tim Gratz]

I do not believe it was part of a vast conspiracy but it is indeed incredible how what was at the time only a local crime was taken over by the FBI and part of the "crime scene" (the vehicle) was shipped to DC (as was of course the material confiscated from Mrs. Paine's garage).

Maybe this is a stupid question but did LBJ or JEH ever make an official determination to give the feds jurisdiction over the case? Is there a record of who ordered the limo to be flown back to DC?

You would think the Dallas PD might have tried to stop the transport of th limo just as Rose attempted to keep JFK's body in Dallas.

Of course given the sentiment against Dallas I am sure the public would have wanted the investigation at the national level.

Edited November 19, 2007 by Tim Gratz

[William Kelly]

I do not believe it was part of a vast conspiracy but it is indeed incredible how what was at the time only a local crime was taken over by the FBI and part of the "crime scene" (the vehicle) was shipped to DC (as was of course the material confiscated from Mrs. Paine's garage).

Maybe this is a stupid question but did LBJ or JEH ever make an official determination to give the feds jurisdiction over the case? Is there a record of who ordered the limo to be flown back to DC?

You would think the Dallas PD might have tried to stop the transport of th limo just as Rose attempted to keep JFK's body in Dallas.

Of course given the sentiment against Dallas I am sure the public would have wanted the investigation at the national level.

It was always a federal crime to conspire to kill a federal agent - which includes the POTUS - but Congress, post assassination, passed a law that made it a federal crime to kill the President, whether or not it was a conspiracy.

You don't need a Vast Conspiracy, just two people to make it a conspiracy.

BK

[Pamela Brown]

As I said in the SPEED limo video now on Youtube, the limo was the primary crime scene. Dealey Plaza and the buildings in that area area. as well as Parkland Hospital were secondary scrime scenes. None of these areas were treated appropriately. The limo should have been covered at PH and put on a flatbed for DPD forensic analysis, instead of being whisked away to Love Field and then to AAFB. Dealey Plaza was not even sealed off. There was no search. Hence, the Harper fragment was found, not by authorities, but a passer-by. Of course, the FBI exam of the limo didn't take place until 12 hours later, after the SS had performed numerous 'informal searches' of the car. So, virtually all the evidence relating to the case has been treated carelessly, or worse. altered or destroyed

'

[William Kelly]

"The whole story of the power and the cover-up comes down to a few points. There has never been a grand jury and trial in Texas. Without a grand jury and trial there can be nothing. Without a trial it does no good for researchers to dig up data. It has no place to go, and what the reseachers reveal just helps make the cover-up tighter, or they eleminate that evidence and the researcher." - Fletcher Prouty

Just a thought to consider.

BK

[William Kelly]

"The whole story of the power and the cover-up comes down to a few points. There has never been a grand jury and trial in Texas. Without a grand jury and trial there can be nothing. Without a trial it does no good for researchers to dig up data. It has no place to go, and what the reseachers reveal just helps make the cover-up tighter, or they eleminate that evidence and the researcher." - Fletcher Prouty

BK

Now that they have found boxes of evidence in the assassination of President Kennedy, it must be considered that there are additional caches of records out there, and there are certainly enough missing items that could be accounted for, if anyone takes the effort to look in the right places.

One question I would like to ask the new Dallas District Attorney is whether he would present new evidence and witnesses to a grand jury, should such evidence and witnesses become suddently evident?

Bill Kelly

[William Kelly]

"The whole story of the power and the cover-up comes down to a few points. There has never been a grand jury and trial in Texas. Without a grand jury and trial there can be nothing. Without a trial it does no good for researchers to dig up data. It has no place to go, and what the reseachers reveal just helps make the cover-up tighter, or they eleminate that evidence and the researcher." - Fletcher Prouty

BK

Now that they have found boxes of evidence in the assassination of President Kennedy, it must be considered that there are additional caches of records out there, and there are certainly enough missing items that could be accounted for, if anyone takes the effort to look in the right places.

One question I would like to ask the new Dallas District Attorney is whether he would present new evidence and witnesses to a grand jury, should such evidence and witnesses become suddently evident?

Bill Kelly

I thought I'd revive this thread to see if there's anyone who would like to do a dry run through of the Dallas crime scenes, as it should have been done.

Of course if you do a dry run through a crime scene as a trained CSI you have to have some sembalance of objectivity and follow the evidence where ever it leads rather than try to pin a crime on somebody.

I don't know if anybody here can do that.

BK

[John Dolva]

I've no qualifications along that line.

For starters: at the beginning I'd seriously look at Holmes statement that the first report/s that the 'agencies' (re shots) dealt with (by ringing him and asking him to check if that was so, his 'no' put an end to that) were that the shots came from the Post Office and the paralell statements, before and after the Presidential Ommission report, by a Faye Leon Blunt who reported that the prisoners on the fifth floor saw a reason to tell the jailguard to get the PO checked out. As it is Blunt bided his time, restated it to the FBI after the POR came out and then it was investigated, a year later, and FLB disappears from history.