Arguably, the most important person at a crime scene is the first officer to arrive. The first responding officer often makes or breaks a crime scene. The manner in which he initially handles a crime scene can dictate how things go in the overall investigation.

The first responding officer is tasked with getting the ball rolling, so to speak. He contacts the department with details of what he has and what he needs. Maybe he doesn’t need more help; maybe he does. His estimation of manpower and expertise to properly process the scene is key to investigating the crime and prosecuting the perpetrator. Once additional crime scene officers arrive, the first responding officer should explain everything he saw and everything he did.

Of utmost importance is any actions taken by the first responding officer regarding weapons. A weapon may have been moved in order to make the scene more safe and secure or to allow the EMS to perform care for the victim. If that’s the case, the officer needs to document what he moved and where.

From: First Responding Officer Gives Direction to Crime Scene by Dick Warrington