Investigative Processes and Case Management
Investigative Processes and Case Management
This domain tests the sergeant's role in preserving a case from first response through follow-up: scene control, evidence integrity, notifications, reports, and case tracking.
Core processes
- First responder duties: render aid, secure the scene, detain witnesses, broadcast descriptions, and protect evidence.
- Establish a crime-scene log; limit entry; require proper PPE and route control.
- Ensure canvass, video preservation, and neighborhood interviews are assigned and documented.
- Maintain chain of custody; voucher property promptly and accurately.
- Notify the detective squad, crime-scene unit, and commanding officer per procedure.
- Review the DD5 and complaint report for completeness before end of tour.
Worked example
A commercial burglary is reported. The sergeant arrives and finds the front glass broken and a cash register open. The sergeant establishes an outer perimeter, keeps officers from walking through the scene, starts a log, and assigns a canvass and video canvass. The sergeant confirms the owner's statement, identifies the point of entry, and requests crime-scene processing. Property is vouchered, and the detective squad is notified. The reasoning: each action preserves either evidence or witness accounts; a casual walk-through can destroy footwear impressions or transfer trace evidence.
Traps
- Letting officers enter to look around.
- Delaying video preservation until the next tour.
- Vague DD5 entries that omit times, notifications, and evidence handling.
- Failing to document who had custody of property at each step.