Policy Text
Policy Delano Police Department
403 Delano PD Policy Manual
Crime and Disaster Scene Integrity
403.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance in handling a major crime or disaster.
403.2 POLICY
It is the policy of the Delano Police Department to secure crime or disaster scenes so that evidence
is preserved, and to identify and mitigate the dangers associated with a major crime or disaster
scene for the safety of the community and those required to enter or work near the scene.
403.3 SCENE RESPONSIBILITY
The first officer at the scene of a crime or major incident is generally responsible for the immediate
safety of the public and preservation of the scene. Officers shall also consider officer safety and
the safety of those persons entering or exiting the area, including those rendering medical aid to
any injured parties. Once an officer has assumed or been assigned to maintain the integrity and
security of the crime or disaster scene, the officer shall maintain the crime or disaster scene until
he/she is properly relieved by a supervisor or other designated person.
403.4 FIRST RESPONDER CONSIDERATIONS
generally describes the first responder’s function at a crime or disaster scene. This list is not
intended to be all-inclusive, is not necessarily in order and may be altered according to the
demands of each situation:
(a) Broadcast emergency information, including requests for additional assistance and
resources.
(b) Provide for the general safety of those within the immediate area by mitigating,
reducing or eliminating threats or dangers.
(c) Locate or identify suspects and determine whether dangerous suspects are still within
the area.
(d) Provide first aid to injured parties if it can be done safely.
(e) Evacuate the location safely as required or appropriate.
(f) Secure the inner perimeter.
(g) Protect items of apparent evidentiary value.
(h) Secure an outer perimeter.
(i) Identify potential witnesses.
(j) Start a chronological log noting critical times and personnel allowed access.
The Patrol Sergeant/Watch Commander will:
(a) ensure no one enters the crime scene until authorized by Investigations personnel.
Copyright Lexipol, LLC 2019/12/06, All Rights Reserved. Crime and Disaster Scene Integrity - 1
Published with permission by Delano Police Department