What is the primary responsibility of the first responder at a crime scene?

The primary responsibility of the first responder at a crime scene is to secure the scene. This involves establishing a perimeter to prevent contamination of evidence and ensuring that the area remains undisturbed until investigators can conduct a thorough examination. Securing the scene is critical because it protects both the physical evidence and the integrity of the investigation. By limiting access to the scene, the first responder helps to preserve items that could be vital for understanding the events that transpired and for the eventual prosecution of any suspects.

Although gathering evidence, investigating suspects, and documenting witness statements are important tasks that occur later in the investigative process, they cannot be effectively carried out without first ensuring that the scene is secure. If the scene is compromised, it could lead to the loss of crucial evidence or the introduction of unreliable information, which can severely impact the case. Therefore, the initial step of securing the scene is foundational to all subsequent investigative efforts.