Forensic Science Technician how-to

How to Document a Crime Scene

Good documentation preserves the scene.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good documentation preserves the scene. In short: secure; take; take, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Secure and assess the scene.

  2. Take overall photographs.

  3. Take midrange and close-ups with scales.

  4. Sketch with measurements.

  5. Write notes.

  6. Collect evidence after documentation.

Safety reminders for forensic science technicians

  • Wear PPE against biohazards
  • Prevent contamination
  • Follow chemical safety
  • Seek support after traumatic scenes

Chain of custody · Latent print · Trace evidence · DNA profile · Toxicology · GC-MS: see the full forensic science technician glossary.

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