The role of first responders in collecting and preserving physical evidence

Criminal Justice

Physical Evidence

Physical evidence is a crucial part of the trial and conviction of criminal perpetrators, and it is crucial to the prosecution. It is also crucial to collect the evidence effectively so it will keep its integrity through examination and the trial. Physical evidence cannot lie, it is unable to change, and the only real variables to physical evidence are collection and evaluation. If it can be linked to a suspect, the evidence can do everything from tie the suspect to the crime scene to give probable cause. Evidence can be used in trial to establish proof the suspect was at the crime scene and committed the crime, and it can convince the jury that a suspect used a certain item, or left behind an item used in committing the crime. Physical evidence is an important part of any crime scene, and gathering it effectively is crucial to any trial. If the evidence is suspect, or if it mishandled it could cast doubt on the case, or it could actually allow a suspect to go free. Gathering and maintenance of physical evidence is crucial to many trials, and that is why the first person on the scene of the crime is so important. They must be able to recognize and not tamper with evidence, or they may endanger the prosecution. The first officer has to make sure the crime scene is not damaged, and must keep onlookers and others away from the scene to avoid contamination of evidence. Thus, the first responder can ultimately be responsible for the overall success of the physical evidence gathering and evaluation.