What is the purpose of scanning the scene at a crime investigation?

The purpose of scanning the scene during a crime investigation is crucial for establishing a clear and organized approach to documenting the physical environment before any evidence is collected or altered. By determining photo locations, the investigator ensures that critical elements of the scene are captured in photographs that will be used in reporting and possibly in court. A systematic scan helps identify vantage points for photography, ensuring that images accurately represent the scene in its original state.

Additionally, while collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and sketching the scene are all important steps in a crime scene investigation, they occur after the initial scanning phase. Scanning helps set the stage for these subsequent actions, allowing investigators to make informed decisions about where and how to collect evidence, what statements to clarify with witnesses, and how to best represent the scene in sketches. Thus, determining photo locations is an essential part of thorough scene management and documentation.