Curriculum Information

This module will provide a comprehensive overview of modern forensic science approaches to the crime scene. It will involve the presentation of the latest, research-led, techniques together with sessions from external forensic practitioners and police officers and a set of modern, hands-on practical sessions. You'll explore the key concepts underpinning the role of crime scene investigation (CSI). You will cover the following content:

Introduction to the Crime Scene:

·       Overview of the importance of the crime scene in forensic investigations.

·       Examination of the primary objectives of crime scene investigation.

·       Discussion on the significance of preserving the integrity of the crime scene for evidential purposes.

Scene Preservation:

·       Detailed exploration of strategies for establishing and maintaining scene security.

·       Examination of techniques to prevent contamination and preserve evidence integrity.

·       Police process / protocol at crime scenes

·       Case studies and real-life scenarios highlighting the consequences of inadequate scene security.

Types of Evidence and Integrity:

·       Comprehensive overview of various types of evidence encountered at crime scenes, including physical, chemical, biological, and digital evidence.

·       In-depth discussion on maintaining evidence integrity throughout the investigative process, emphasising the importance of chain of custody procedures.

·       Anti-contamination approaches

·       Hands-on exercises demonstrating proper handling and packaging techniques for different types of evidence.

Documentation and Standard Operational Procedures:

·        Thorough examination of the importance of accurate documentation in crime scene investigation and the role of Police Officers.

·       Review of standard procedures for recording observations, documenting evidence, and preparing reports.

·       Practical training in writing detailed reports and utilising technology for documentation, such as digital photography and video recording.

Evidence-led Investigations:

·       Exploration of the role of evidence and intelligence in driving forensic investigations.

·       Discussion on the integration of forensic evidence with other investigative techniques, such as witness interviews and surveillance.

Crime Scene Management and Processing:

·       Detailed analysis of the roles and responsibilities of various personnel involved in crime scene management, including operational police officers, Crime Scene Investigators (CSI), and Crime Scene Managers (CSM).

·       Comprehensive overview of procedures for systematic searching, evidence collection, scene safety, and hazard management.

·       Practical exercises simulating crime scene processing, including evidence collection, documentation, and scene reconstruction.

Basic Technical Equipment for Crime Scene Investigation:

·       Introduction to essential technical equipment used in crime scene investigation, including fingerprint kits, evidence collection kits, and forensic light sources.

·       Hands-on training in the proper use and maintenance of basic forensic equipment.

·       Demonstration of advanced forensic technologies and their applications in crime scene analysis.

Interpretation of Crime Scene Evidence:

·       Examination of basic principles of interpreting evidence collected from crime scenes, including pattern recognition and analysis.

·       Discussion on investigative focus and strategies to mitigate cognitive biases.

·       Case studies illustrating the importance of accurate evidence interpretation in solving complex criminal cases.

Quality Assurance and Control in Crime Scene Investigation:

·       Overview of quality assurance and control measures implemented in crime scene investigation.

·       Discussion on accreditation standards, validation of methods, and proficiency testing.

·       Practical exercises assessing the quality of evidence collection and processing techniques.

Legal and Ethical Considerations in Crime Scene Investigation:

·        Exploration of legal and ethical issues relevant to crime scene investigation, including privacy rights, chain of custody, and expert witness testimony.

·       Case studies highlighting landmark legal cases and ethical dilemmas faced by forensic professionals.

·       Discussion on professional standards and codes of conduct governing forensic practice.

Cognitive bias in investigations.