If you come across a crime scene, what is your immediate priority?

• A. Move items from the crime scene for personal use
• B. Ignore the scene until investigators arrive
• C. Control the crime scene and preserve evidence that could be used in an investigation
• D. Notify a supervisor only

Answer: (C)

The first thing to do at a crime scene is to secure and preserve the scene so evidence stays intact for investigators. This means establishing a boundary to limit access, avoiding touching or moving items unless there’s a safety reason, and carefully noting what you see and exactly where it is. By keeping the area contained and minimizing disturbance, you protect the integrity of the evidence and support an accurate reconstruction of events, which is essential for the investigation. If there are hazards, address them without disturbing evidence, then report to the appropriate authorities or supervisor so the scene can be managed properly. Moving items, ignoring the scene, or only notifying someone without securing and documenting the scene can compromise the investigation and contaminate or lose crucial evidence.