An Initial-response Field Kit Does Not Contain Evidence Bags

An Initial Response Field Kit Does Not Contain Evidence Bags: Why and What to Do Instead

Initial response field kits are crucial for first responders and investigators arriving at a crime scene. They contain a variety of tools and supplies to help secure the scene, preserve evidence, and begin the investigative process. However, a common misconception is that these kits include evidence bags. This article will delve into why evidence bags are not typically included in initial response kits, discuss the reasons behind this omission, and explain the proper procedures for evidence collection and packaging.

Why Evidence Bags Are Absent from Initial Response Kits

The absence of evidence bags from initial response kits is a deliberate design choice based on several crucial factors:

1. Prioritizing Immediate Scene Security:

The primary function of an initial response kit is to allow first responders to quickly and effectively secure the scene. This involves addressing immediate threats, protecting potential witnesses, and preventing contamination or loss of evidence. Evidence bags are secondary; focusing on securing the area first is paramount. Adding evidence bags, which are only necessary after initial scene assessment and processing, would add unnecessary bulk and potentially slow down the crucial initial response time.

2. Preventing Premature Evidence Handling:

Including evidence bags might inadvertently encourage premature handling of evidence before proper documentation and photography. A thorough visual examination and photographic documentation are critical first steps in a crime scene investigation. Premature bagging could compromise the integrity of the evidence and potentially lead to missed clues or contamination.

3. Maintaining Kit Portability and Accessibility:

Initial response kits are designed to be easily portable and readily accessible. They need to fit comfortably in a vehicle and be quickly deployed in various situations. Including bulky evidence bags would compromise this portability, limiting the kit's effectiveness in emergency situations.

4. Variety of Evidence Types Requires Specialized Bags:

Evidence comes in countless forms—from small traces of biological material to large, cumbersome objects. Standard evidence bags wouldn't suffice for all types of evidence. Using the wrong type of bag can compromise evidence integrity, leading to admissibility issues in court. Specialized bags designed for specific evidence types (e.g., biological samples, firearms, digital media) are required, making the inclusion of a general-purpose evidence bag in the initial kit impractical.

5. Preventing Contamination Through Premature Packaging:

Improperly handling evidence before proper packaging can lead to contamination. The first responders' priority is to assess and secure the scene. Only after this initial phase is complete can a dedicated evidence technician safely collect and package evidence using the appropriate procedures and materials. Including bags in the initial kit can incentivize rushing the process, increasing the likelihood of contamination.

What an Initial Response Field Kit Does Contain

Instead of evidence bags, initial response kits are stocked with tools and supplies vital for the initial stages of crime scene management. These include:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves (nitrile and latex), masks (N95 respirators), eye protection, shoe covers, and coveralls. These are crucial for protecting both the responder's health and the integrity of the crime scene.

• Scene Marking and Documentation Tools: Markers, measuring tapes, evidence tags, cameras (including digital and potentially 360° cameras), and notebooks for recording initial observations. Accurate documentation is crucial for subsequent investigation.

• Scene Security Equipment: Crime scene tape, barricades, and potentially temporary lighting systems depending on the circumstances and location. These tools are essential for controlling access to the crime scene and preserving its integrity.

• Basic First Aid Supplies: In case of injuries to responders or victims at the scene (although this is rarely a primary concern in the kit's design).

• Tools for Initial Evidence Preservation: Tweezers, sterile swabs, and possibly small containers for holding extremely small pieces of evidence—but not evidence bags intended for the final packaging.

• Communication Devices: Radios, mobile phones, to facilitate communication with other responders and dispatch.

The Proper Procedure for Evidence Collection and Packaging

After the initial scene security and documentation, evidence collection and packaging should be performed by trained personnel, often forensic specialists or detectives. The process involves several key steps:

1. Careful Examination and Documentation:

This step involves a thorough visual examination of the scene, meticulously recording the location and condition of any potential evidence. High-resolution photography and videography are critical components of this process. Detailed sketches and notes further solidify the record.

2. Evidence Collection:

Evidence is collected using appropriate tools and techniques to avoid contamination. Specialized tools like tweezers, sterile swabs, and vacuum systems are employed depending on the nature of the evidence. The collection process must adhere to strict protocols to maintain the chain of custody.

3. Evidence Packaging:

The appropriate type of evidence bag is selected based on the nature of the evidence. This could include:

• Paper bags: For items that might retain moisture, such as clothing or biological samples. These prevent mold growth.
• Plastic bags: For dry items, but must be sealed carefully to prevent leakage or contamination.
• Specialised containers: For specific evidence types like firearms, computers, or liquids.
• Binders: To hold smaller items securely.

4. Sealing and Labeling:

Each evidence bag is carefully sealed and labelled with crucial information, including:

• Case number
• Item number
• Date and time of collection
• Location of collection
• Collector's name and initials
• A brief description of the contents

5. Chain of Custody:

A detailed record of every person who has handled the evidence, along with the date and time of each transfer, is meticulously maintained. This is essential for ensuring the admissibility of the evidence in court.

6. Transportation and Storage:

Evidence is transported and stored securely to prevent damage or contamination. Appropriate vehicles and secure storage facilities are used to maintain the integrity of the evidence.

The Importance of Training

Proper training is paramount for anyone involved in crime scene investigation. This includes understanding the limitations of initial response kits, the proper procedures for evidence collection, and the importance of maintaining the chain of custody. Comprehensive training ensures that evidence is collected and handled correctly, preserving its integrity and maximizing its value in the legal process.

Conclusion: Focusing on Scene Security First

The absence of evidence bags in an initial response kit reflects the prioritization of immediate scene security and the preservation of evidence integrity. Including such bags could lead to premature handling and contamination. Instead, the kit focuses on tools crucial for securing the area, documenting the scene, and preserving evidence until trained personnel can arrive to collect and properly package it. By understanding the rationale behind this design choice and following proper procedures for evidence collection and packaging, investigators can ensure that crucial evidence is preserved and admissible in court. The focus remains on secure scene management and methodical, documented collection, minimizing the risk of contamination and maximizing the chance of a successful investigation. Remember, effective crime scene management begins long before the evidence bag is even considered.