What is your immediate priority if you encounter a crime scene?

• A. Notify supervisor only
• B. Document the scene without preserving evidence
• C. Control the crime scene and preserve evidence that could be later used in an investigation
• D. Leave the area to avoid danger

Answer: (C)

Immediate priority at a crime scene is to secure and control the area and preserve evidence that could inform an investigation. This protects people from harm and maintains the integrity of traces like fingerprints, DNA, and the situational layout. By limiting access and avoiding unnecessary movement or touching of items, you prevent contamination and loss of critical information for investigators. Simply notifying someone or documenting without protecting the scene can allow evidence to be disturbed or destroyed. Leaving the area would create ongoing risk and further contamination. So, the focus must be on securing the scene and preserving evidence for the investigation.