If evidence is tampered with at the crash scene, what should an investigator do?

When evidence is tampered with at a crash scene, it is crucial for an investigator to document the tampering and secure the scene. This is important for several reasons. First, documenting the tampering provides a detailed record of what occurred, which is essential for any subsequent investigation or legal proceedings. It ensures that there is a clear understanding of how the evidence may have been altered, which can impact the credibility and integrity of the investigation.

Securing the scene helps to prevent further tampering and protects any remaining relevant evidence. This action also allows investigators to control access, thereby preserving the scene for detailed examination and analysis later on.

Simply ignoring the tampering would undermine the investigation, as it could lead to a loss of crucial information. Dismissing the significance of the evidence would overlook the potential impact that tampering could have on the outcome of the case. Ensuring the scene is left alone by bystanders is certainly important, but without the initial step of documenting the tampering, the full context and ramifications of the altered evidence might be lost. Thus, proper documentation and scene security are essential to maintain the integrity of the investigation.