Investigating Careers

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As we continue to examine crime scene management, the differences between the various forensic careers becomes apparent. Although the investigative team works together to solve the crime, the role that each member of the team plays is vastly different. It is important to explore these roles to understand how each member of the team works with one another.

Instructions
In this assignment, you will select an article that presents information on one of the below forensic careers. The article must be from the last twelve months and contain information on how an individual from one of the forensic careers below was able to affect a criminal case. Select the button to see the careers and get started! CAREER: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATOR.

Draft responses to the questions below, which will address the information found in the public investigations article you selected for this assignment.

Provide a brief summary of the skills, education, and training necessary to go into this forensic profession.
Explain the role that this forensic profession has in the investigative team in crime scene management and forensics.
Examine whether or not observation plays a critical factor in this investigative team members daily duties. Explain.
Describe the impact issues with methods used to collect evidence (legally or procedurally) could have on this roles analysis of the evidence. Justify your opinion.

Sample Solution

Crime scene investigators (CSIs) play a critical role in the investigative team, meticulously collecting and documenting evidence to reconstruct a crime scene and aid in the identification of perpetrators.

Skills, Education, and Training:

To become a CSI, a combination of skills, education, and training is essential.

  • Skills: Keen observation skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, excellent communication and documentation abilities, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team in potentially hazardous environments.
  • Education: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field is preferred.
  • Training: After obtaining a degree, aspiring CSIs undergo specialized training in crime scene processing, evidence collection, and documentation procedures. This training may include fingerprint identification, bloodstain pattern analysis, and proper handling of biological and trace evidence.

Role in the Investigative Team:

CSIs are the first responders to a crime scene. Their primary responsibility is to secure the scene, identify and document potential evidence, and collect it using proper protocols. They meticulously photograph, sketch, and document the scene to preserve its integrity for further analysis. They also maintain a chain of custody for all collected evidence, ensuring its admissibility in court.

Critical Role of Observation:

Observation is a fundamental aspect of a CSI’s daily duties. They must be meticulous observers, able to detect even the most minute details at a crime scene. This includes noticing trace evidence like hairs, fibers, or fragments, as well as observing the location and positioning of objects within the scene. Their keen observation skills are crucial for identifying potential evidence and documenting the scene in a way that allows for reconstruction and interpretation of events.

Impact of Evidence Collection Issues:

Improper evidence collection procedures can have a devastating impact on a CSI’s analysis and the entire case. Here’s why:

  • Contamination: If evidence is mishandled or not collected using sterile techniques, it can become contaminated. This contamination can introduce foreign DNA or other traces that can mislead investigators and jeopardize the case.
  • Loss of Evidence: Improper collection techniques can lead to loss of valuable evidence, especially trace evidence that might be difficult to replicate at the scene later. This loss can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
  • Legal Issues: Improper collection procedures can violate chain of custody protocols or constitute illegal searches and seizures. This can lead to evidence being excluded from court, hindering the investigation and potentially allowing perpetrators to go free.

In conclusion, CSIs play a vital role in forensic investigations by securing crime scenes, collecting evidence, and preserving its integrity. Their keen observation skills and adherence to proper collection procedures are essential for building strong cases and ensuring justice is served.

 

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