Explain why when a crime scene is processed you don't want to follow the exact path the criminal might have taken.
When processing a crime scene, it is generally recommended not to follow the exact path the criminal might have taken for several reasons:
1. Preservation of Evidence: Following the exact path taken by the criminal can potentially contaminate or destroy important evidence left at the crime scene. Walking through the area can unintentionally disturb or erase footprints, fingerprints, bloodstains, or other valuable forensic evidence.
2. Tainting Witness Testimonies: If investigators or first responders follow the criminal's path, they might inadvertently influence witnesses who have not yet been interviewed. Witnesses may unknowingly alter their testimonies or perceptions based on the investigator's presence or actions, leading to inaccurate information.
3. Safety Concerns: The path taken by the criminal might involve hazards or dangers that investigators are not aware of. It could include hidden weapons, trip wires, or y traps, endangering their own safety. Law enforcement professionals are trained to prioritize their safety and minimize unnecessary risk.
4. Documenting the Crime Scene: Investigations rely heavily on documenting and preserving the scene as it was when the crime was discovered. By not following the criminal's exact path, investigators can better document the untouched crime scene and collect evidence in a systematic and organized manner.
5. Reconstruction and Analysis: The goal of crime scene processing is to reconstruct the events that occurred leading up to and during the crime. By preserving the crime scene in its original state, investigators can recreate a more accurate sequence of events, identify potential entry or exit points, and analyze the behavior of the criminal. Following the exact path may disrupt this process and lead to incomplete or inaccurate conclusions.
In summary, avoiding following the exact path the criminal might have taken during crime scene processing is essential for preserving evidence, maintaining the accuracy of witness testimonies, ensuring the safety of investigators, documenting the scene correctly, and enabling reconstruction and analysis of the crime.