Colorado POST Practice Exam

During crime scene sketching, what does the step 'Identify the scene' entail?

1. Marking the boundaries of the scene clearly

2. Documenting the time of the incident

3. Drawing a map of the surrounding area

4. Gathering witness statements

The correct answer is: Marking the boundaries of the scene clearly

Identifying the scene during crime scene sketching primarily involves marking the boundaries of the scene clearly. This step is essential because it ensures that the specific area related to the incident is accurately defined. Establishing clear boundaries allows investigators to focus their efforts on the relevant area, preventing contamination and maintaining the integrity of the scene. Properly marking the boundaries also aids in subsequent investigations and in court presentations, as it provides a visual framework for understanding the context of the crime. This step is foundational for all other activities related to evidence collection and documentation that follow. While documenting the time of the incident, drawing a map of the surrounding area, and gathering witness statements are also important aspects of criminal investigations, they do not directly relate to the initial step of identifying and marking the scene itself.