Description
Document, process, and analyze crime scenes to identify, collect, preserve, and interpret physical evidence in support of criminal investigations and prosecutions.
- • Obtain a scene briefing from the first officer in charge without disturbing evidence.
- • Block or rope off the area, set inner and outer perimeters, and maintain an entry and exit log.
- • Ensure personal and scene safety; use PPE and contamination control procedures.
- • Determine scene processing priorities, search methods, and resource needs.
- • Organize the scene search and assign tasks and areas to team members; obtain adequate lighting.
- • Note, mark, photograph, and video the location of items such as footprints, tire tracks, bloodstains, and bullets.
- • Take overall, midrange, and close-up photographs with scales before moving items.
- • Measure and create sketches, diagrams, or 3D scans to map the scene.
- • Search for and collect physical evidence using appropriate tools and techniques.
- • Develop, lift, and preserve latent fingerprints using powders, chemicals, and alternate light sources.
- • Cast and collect footwear and tire impressions.
- • Collect and package biological evidence to prevent contamination and degradation.
- • Document and analyze bloodstain patterns and bullet trajectories when applicable.
- • Preserve, process, and document firearms and toolmarks; record condition and serial numbers.
- • Search for, mark, and collect cartridge cases and projectiles.
- • Secure and document deceased individuals and surrounding evidence pending medical examiner arrival.
- • Coordinate with the medical examiner or coroner and document body position, injuries, and trace evidence.
- • Provide laboratory personnel with source information, requested tests, and case context.
- • Package, seal, label, and submit evidence; maintain strict chain of custody.
- • Record the progress of scene processing and maintain evidence logs and case files.
- • Prepare detailed reports, sketches, and photo logs that summarize findings.
- • Review completed police reports to determine if additional scene work is needed.
- • Notify command of significant developments and request specialty units as needed.
- • Collaborate with detectives, prosecutors, and other agencies to align evidence collection with case needs.
- • Manage and collect on-scene digital evidence (e.g., CCTV, DVRs, mobile devices) with appropriate safeguards.
- • Testify in court and before grand juries on scene processing and evidence handling.
- • Release processed scenes to responsible parties and document turnover.
- • Dispose of or return evidence according to retention schedules and legal requirements.
- • Maintain, calibrate, and restock forensic equipment, kits, and vehicles.
- • Train or assist officers in evidence recognition and basic scene preservation.
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
