Preliminary Investigation

Who normally conducts the preliminary investigation? What are some of the actions the first responders can take once they arrive at the scene of the crime? Since the preliminary investigation starts when the first emergency call is received, it is typically administered by the patrol officers who are first to respond to the scene. First responders can either preserve or contaminate the crime scene, which can possibly result in either the success or failure of the prosecution. Accordingly, the steps taken by patrol officers during the preliminary investigation are of paramount importance. The first prerogative of the responding officers is to ensure their own safety and then the security of those within or in the vicinity of the crime scene.