It is important to know and understand what is regarded as a crime scene and what can be done by the victim of crime to ensure that possible traces of evidence are secured for collection by the crime scene investigator, otherwise known as an Investigating Officer (or “I.O.” )

A Crime scene is defined as the area where a crime was committed. It is also the area where physical evidence will indicate the presence of the parties involved. The latter is based on the Locard principle which advocates that “Every contact leaves a trace” – i.e. where the perpetrator(s) of a crime comes into contact with the scene, so he will both bring something into the scene and leave with something from the scene.

Physical evidence for example, blood, semen and/or hair can easily be transferred between the victim and suspect and/or to the environment. This contact with the victim and suspect with the crime scene will leave physical evidence showing his / her presence at the crime.