DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF FIRST RESPONDERS

Abstract

Crime scene investigation requires teamwork; therefore, those involved in this process should know their duties and responsibilities very well. First responders are among the most important responsible group of personnel. Contrary to the crime scene investigation team or expert laboratory personnel, first responders do not technically examine available evidence at the scene but protect the evidence by keeping the chaotic environment under control at the scene. This study was conducted to prepare checklists for minimizing or eliminating the deficiencies and problems encountered by law enforcement officers while performing their first responder duties and responsibilities at a crime scene. A first responder checklist was prepared consisting of a total of 40 questions under six different themes. Four checklists, which consisted of 55 questions in total, were prepared according to the types of events frequently encountered by first responders, including firearm crimes, deaths, suspicious package and explosion incidents, and fire incidents. In addition, a crime scene entry/exit control form was created. The checklists will benefit law enforcement officers in protecting crime scenes.