Colorado POST Practice Exam

What should an officer do when taking a tape recorder to a crime scene?

1. Record only important statements

2. Focus on recording the suspect's statements

3. Record all victim, witness, and suspect statements

4. Use the recorder only if necessary

The correct answer is: Record all victim, witness, and suspect statements

Recording all victim, witness, and suspect statements at a crime scene is essential for several reasons. Comprehensive documentation ensures that every detail is captured accurately, preserving the integrity of the investigation and providing a complete record of the interactions that occurred. This thoroughness can be crucial for various aspects of the legal process, including evidence presentation in court and aiding in the investigation itself. By capturing everything said by all involved parties, the officer also safeguards against potential discrepancies or misunderstandings that might arise later. This can be vital for establishing timelines or clarifying events as the case unfolds. Furthermore, a tape recorder serves as an unbiased tool, minimizing the chances of selective memory or misinterpretation when recalling statements later. This thorough approach contributes to the overall quality of the investigation and upholds the standards of law enforcement.