Crime Scene Sketch

Crime Scene Sketch

The crime scene sketch is an invaluable aid in recording investigative data. It is a permanent record that provides supplemental information that is not easily accomplished with the exclusive use of crime scene photographs and notes. A crime scene sketch depicts the overall layout of a location and the relationship of evidentiary items to the surroundings. It can show the path a suspect or victim took and the distances involved. It can be used when questioning suspects and witnesses. During trial, the crime scene diagram correlates the testimony of witnesses and serves as a tool for relaying reference and orientation points to the prosecutor, judge and jury.

I. Sketching the Crime Scene

Before beginning a sketch, obtain a comprehensive view of the scene. Determine the sketch limits – decide what to include and what to exclude. If the scene is complicated, a number of sketches may be necessary for adequate documentation