How to Be Crime Scene Preservationist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 2, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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When a crime scene is not properly preserved, the evidence can become contaminated, which can have a major effect on the outcome of a criminal investigation. Crime scene preservationists play an important role in reducing this risk. They are responsible for making sure the scene is secure, that all evidence is identified and collected, and that all necessary photographs and videos are taken.

They also conduct a thorough examination of the area and make sure that any potential evidence is carefully documented and collected. By ensuring that all evidence is preserved, crime scene preservationists are able to maximize the chances of a successful criminal investigation and help bring justice to those affected by crime.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. A high school diploma or GED is typically the minimum educational requirement to work as a crime scene preservationist.
Obtain a degree in criminal justice or a related field. A degree in criminal justice or forensic science is preferred by employers, though not always required. Coursework should include classes in evidence collection and preservation, crime scene photography, and criminal investigation.
Get certified. Certification is not always required, but it demonstrates a higher level of knowledge and professionalism. The International Association for Identification offers certification for crime scene investigators, which requires passing an exam and a background check.
Acquire experience. Experience is invaluable in this field, so volunteer with your local law enforcement agency or attend workshops. If possible, try to get hands-on experience in collecting and preserving evidence at crime scenes.
Apply for a job. Once you have the required qualifications, start applying for jobs as a crime scene preservationist. You can search online job boards or contact law enforcement agencies directly to inquire about open positions.

Scene preservation is an important aspect of any crime investigation. It requires reliable and efficient techniques to ensure that all evidence is preserved in its original state. This includes taking detailed notes, photographs, and measurements of the crime scene, being careful not to disturb any potential evidence.

It also involves collecting, labeling, and properly storing evidence in an organized manner, as well as keeping track of who has accessed the scene and the evidence. All of these steps are necessary to ensure that the evidence is reliable and accurate for use in a court of law. By preserving the crime scene and its evidence, investigators can reconstruct events and develop theories to help them solve the case.

You may want to check Crime Scene Cleaner, Crime Stoppers Coordinator, and Crime Laboratory Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Collect and document evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, blood samples, and photographs.
Develop and maintain evidence databases, including digital files and other records.
Prepare and package evidence for laboratory analysis.
Assist in the creation of accurate diagrams and sketches of crime scenes.
Use specialized software to analyze and compare evidence gathered from crime scenes.
Prepare reports, court documents, and other legal paperwork associated with crime scene investigations.
Collaborate with law enforcement and other professionals to investigate criminal cases.
Provide expert testimony in court proceedings related to crime scene investigations.
Operate and maintain crime scene laboratory equipment.
Ensure the safety of personnel working at crime scenes.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of local, state and federal laws, regulations and procedures related to crime scene preservation.
Knowledge of forensic sciences and evidence collection techniques.
Knowledge of digital photography and video recording.
Ability to follow instructions and adhere to established protocols.
Ability to process and document evidence from a crime scene.
Ability to use a wide variety of specialized equipment and tools.
Ability to write detailed reports and maintain accurate records.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work well under pressure in high-stress situations.
Ability to interact with law enforcement personnel in a professional manner.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Crime scene preservation is an essential skill for anyone involved in criminal investigations. As crime scenes can be complex and delicate environments, it is essential that those working to preserve them have the right knowledge and expertise. Preservationists must be able to recognize, preserve, and document evidence.

This includes knowing how to properly secure and protect a scene, as well as documenting any evidence such as fingerprints, blood samples, or other materials. Furthermore, they must be able to work with local law enforcement and other professionals to ensure all evidence is collected and preserved correctly. By doing so, they help to ensure that no crucial evidence is lost or contaminated.

In turn, this helps investigators to better understand the crime and bring justice more quickly to perpetrators.

Crime Intelligence Analyst, Crime Mapping Analyst, and Crime Lab Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in crime scene preservation?
How would you ensure the integrity of a crime scene?
What methods do you use to catalog evidence?
How do you handle evidence contamination?
What procedures do you follow when photographing a crime scene?
How do you handle conflicting instructions while preserving a crime scene?
What challenges have you faced while preserving a crime scene?
How do you ensure that all evidence is gathered and preserved accurately?
What challenges have you encountered in the preservation of digital evidence?
What procedures do you follow for chain-of-custody when handling evidence?

Common Tools in Industry

Camera. Used to document the scene and evidence; (eg: digital camera).
Evidence Labeling System. Used to properly label evidence; (eg: barcoded system).
Evidence Collection Kits. Used to contain, package, and transport evidence; (eg: gloves, paper bags, envelopes).
Evidence Storage Facility. Used to store evidence; (eg: secure locker).
Protective Gear. Used to protect the investigator from contamination; (eg: booties, face masks, overalls).
Documentation Tools. Used to create and maintain records of the scene and evidence; (eg: notebook, digital recorder).
Lighting. Used to illuminate the scene; (eg: flashlights, portable spotlights).
Measuring Tools. Used to accurately measure elements of the crime scene; (eg: measuring tape, ruler).
Fingerprint Powder & Brushes. Used to collect fingerprints; (eg: black powder, brushes).
Sketching Materials. Used to create a visual representation of the scene; (eg: paper, pencils).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association for Identification (IAI)
International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts (IABPA)
American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT)
National Institute of Justice (NIJ)
International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners (IACME)
American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD)
National Forensic Science Technology Center (NFSTC)
National Forensic Science Technology Center (NFSTC)
American Society of Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD)

We also have Crime Data Analyst, Crime Prevention Officer, and Crime Scene Examiner jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Evidence. Any object, document, or physical material that can be used to help establish facts in a criminal case.
Chain of Custody. The chronological documentation or paper trail that records the sequence of custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of evidence.
Autopsy. A medical examination of a deceased person to determine the cause and manner of death.
Forensic Photography. The use of photography in forensic investigations to document crime scenes and evidence.
Toxicology. The study of the effects of toxic substances on living organisms.
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis. The examination and interpretation of patterns of blood left at a crime scene.
DNA Analysis. A scientific technique used to identify individuals by examining their genetic code.
Fingerprint Analysis. The use of fingerprint patterns to identify individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Crime Scene Preservationist?

A Crime Scene Preservationist is a professional who is responsible for preserving and documenting evidence from a crime scene. They ensure that the integrity of the evidence is maintained throughout the investigative process.

What qualifications does a Crime Scene Preservationist need?

A Crime Scene Preservationist typically needs to have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in forensic science, criminal justice or related field. In addition, they should possess knowledge of law enforcement procedures, photography, fingerprinting and other methods of evidence collection and preservation.

What duties do Crime Scene Preservationists perform?

The primary duty of a Crime Scene Preservationist is to document, collect and preserve evidence from crime scenes. This includes taking photographs, collecting fingerprints, collecting biological evidence, and other evidence-gathering activities. They must also ensure that evidence is properly stored, labeled, and tracked throughout the investigative process.

How important is it for Crime Scene Preservationists to maintain accurate records?

Accurate record keeping is essential for Crime Scene Preservationists. The evidence collected must be documented in a detailed and accurate manner in order to maintain its integrity throughout the investigative process. Documentation must include detailed descriptions of the scene, the items collected and where they were taken from.

What tools do Crime Scene Preservationists use?

Crime Scene Preservationists use a variety of tools to document and preserve evidence from crime scenes. This includes cameras, fingerprint powder, ultraviolet light, swabs, evidence bags, and other specialized tools. They must also use computers and other digital devices to store and analyze evidence.

Web Resources

7-3 Crime Scene Evidence Collection and Preservation police.vcu.edu
Crime Scene Investigation Program at FNU | Crime Scene www.fnu.edu
How to Become a Crime Scene Investigator - Gwynedd Mercy University www.gmercyu.edu