What is the role and responsibilities of a police crime scene investigator?

The role of a police crime scene investigator (CSI), also known as a forensic investigator or forensic technician, is crucial in the criminal justice system. Their primary responsibility is to gather, analyse, and preserve physical evidence at crime scenes. Here are some of their key roles and responsibilities:

1. Crime Scene Documentation: CSIs are responsible for thoroughly documenting the crime scene by taking photographs, making sketches and writing detailed notes. They ensure that all relevant aspects of the scene are recorded accurately.
2. Evidence Collection: CSIs collect and package physical evidence found at the crime scene. This may include fingerprints, DNA samples, fibres, hair, weapons, tool marks and other trace evidence. They use specialised techniques and tools to carefully collect and preserve the evidence to maintain its integrity.
3. Forensic Analysis: CSIs may perform preliminary forensic analysis at the crime scene itself, such as conducting presumptive tests for blood or other bodily fluids. However, most detailed forensic analysis is conducted in a laboratory setting by forensic scientists or analysts.
4. Crime Scene Reconstruction: CSIs work closely with other professionals, such as forensic scientists, detectives and prosecutors, to reconstruct the crime scene. They analyse the evidence, patterns, and circumstances to understand how the crime occurred and provide insights to aid in the investigation.
5. Report Writing: CSIs prepare detailed reports documenting their findings, procedures followed and the evidence collected. These reports are crucial for investigators, prosecutors and courts, as they provide a comprehensive account of the crime scene and the evidence gathered.
6. Testifying in Court: CSIs may be required to testify in court proceedings as expert witnesses to present their findings, explain the forensic techniques used and provide clarity on the evidence collected. Their testimony helps to establish the credibility and reliability of the evidence.
7. Collaboration: CSIs collaborate with other law enforcement personnel, such as detectives, forensic scientists, medical examiners and legal professionals. They work as a team to ensure a thorough investigation and provide accurate and reliable evidence for the legal process.

Overall, the role of a police crime scene investigator is to meticulously gather and analyse physical evidence, maintain the integrity of the crime scene and provide expert assistance in criminal investigations. They play a vital role in the pursuit of justice by helping to establish the facts and support the legal process.

If you have CSI’s that need additional training and support to develop their core skills please contact Forensic Training Partnership now.