A crime scene examiner, also known as a crime scene investigator, is in charge of collecting and safeguarding evidence at a crime scene. He or she is typically one of the first on the scene. The investigative team is the next group to arrive at the crime scene after the crime scene photographer has completed their work.
A crime scene examiner’s primary responsibility is to gather evidence. Depending on the crime scene, this can be a difficult task. Making casts of footprints, collecting fingerprints, and locating trace evidence such as hairs, fibers, or paint splatters are all possible options. As well as shell casings, powder patterns, and bullet fragments, an examiner will gather evidence relating to fire arms, or guns. Blood, sperm, nail scrapings, and other biological evidence left the humans involved will be carefully collected as evidence.
To be able to do their jobs properly, crime scene examiners have received extensive specialized training. They must be able to use all of the tools required to investigate a crime scene. If examiners use the tools incorrectly, they risk destroying crucial evidence that could have helped solve the case. Investigators must know more than just how to use the equipment; they must also know how to clean and store it properly so that it is ready for the next time it is needed.
A crime scene examiner may be on call at any time of day or night, depending on the number of investigators in a police department. Examiners also have set work hours during which they complete any necessary office work and visit current crime scenes. A crime scene examiner may be confronted with distressing crime scenes on a regular basis, necessitating a strong stomach. Examiners must be able to look at a crime scene in its entirety and then break it down into its constituent parts. Examiners should be able to perform both heavy lifting and more delicate work with equal skill.
A crime scene examiner has a fascinating job in which no two days are ever the same. There is never a shortage of interesting cases to work on, especially in more urban areas where crime is more prevalent. The work can be demanding at times and necessitates a high level of technical knowledge, but it is an excellent career choice for those who enjoy science and want to pursue a criminal justice degree.