CD1 2

CDI-2: TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION


TRANSPORTATION
- is an act or process of conveying from one place to another
- from the Latin word “Terans” meaning across or and move and “Portare” means to carry

VARIOUS ANCIENT MODES OF TRANSPORATATION
MANPOWER
ANIMAL POWER
WIND POWER

ROADS AND VEHICLES HISTORY

 WHEEL
- was invented probably in Western Asia
- one of man’s great inventions

THE ROMANS
- were the major road builders in the ancient world
-     Roman road networks reached a total of about 50,000 miles (80, 000 km)

CANALS
a body of water used to be channel of sea transportation
the first canal was constructed by Engr. James Brindley

RAILWAYS
- channel of transportation wherein a parallel line of irons were used as roads
- the first railroad is the Stockton and Darlington line (1925)

TRAFFIC
- it refers to the movement of persons, goods, or vehicles, either powered by combustion system or animal drawn vehicle, from one place to another for the purpose of safe travel
- originated from Greco-Roman word Trafico and Greek word Traffiga, origin of which is not known

THE 5’Es OF TRAFFIC

ENFORCEMENT
- the action taken by the police, such as arresting, issuing traffic citation ticket and providing warning to the erring driver for the purpose of deterring and discouraging and or preventing such violation
2. EDUCATION
- the process of giving training and practice in the actual application of traffic safety knowledge

3. ENGINEERING
- the science of measuring traffic and travel, the study of basic laws relative to the traffic law and generation; the application of these knowledge to the professional practice of planning, deciding, and operating traffic system to achieve safe and efficient transportation of persons and goods

4. TRAFFIC ECOLOGY/ ENVIRONMENT
- the study of potentially disastrous population explosion, changes in urban environment due to the scale and density of new urban concentration and new activities carried out, air pollution, water pollution and crowding, transport congestion which result therein

5. TRAFFIC ECONOMY
- deals with the benefits and adverse effects of traffic to our economy

MANAGEMENT
- it is an executive function such as planning, organizing, Directing and supervising, coordinating operating recording and budgeting traffic affairs
AGENCIES INVOLVED IN THE ENFORCEMENT OF TRAFFIC

Land Transportation Office
- tasked to enforce laws, rules and regulation governing the registration of motor vehicles, operation of motor vehicle and traffic rules and regulation as provided by RA 4136 as amended.
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board
- tasked to regulate transport route
- regulate franchising
- prescribe fare rates
- investigate traffic cases
- perform judicial function
- promulgate rules
 - impose and collect fees
- formulate and enforce rules and regulation for transport operation for promotion of safety and convenience of public
- coordinate with concerned agencies and enforce E.O. NO 125,124-A and
E.O. 202 dated June 19,1987

Department of Transportation and Communications
- in charge of planning programs coordinating  implementing and perform administrative function and promotion development and regulation of dependable and coordinated network of transportation and communication in order to have fast, safe, efficient and reliable postal transportation and communication services (EO No. 125.)

Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
- created under RA. 7924 and sets policies concerning traffic in Metro Manila, coordinates and regulates implementation of program related to traffic

Congress and Local Council
- the branch of government primarily tasked to create laws for the welfare of the public

Judiciary
- the branch of government that interprets the law through adjudication of cases

Traffic Management Group (TMG)
- the basis service of the PNP tasked to direct and control traffic, perform accident investigation, enforce the laws and issue citations.

AGENCIES RESPONSIBLE FOR TRAFFIC ENGINEERING

Department of Public Works and Highways
- has responsibility of determining traffic flow planning approval of program and budget finding of construction  and maintenance of road and instrument
 
Local Public Works and Engineering Offices
- local government units and instrumentalities that have the same function as the DPWH
- perform such powers within their territorial boundary

AGENCIES INVOLVED IN TRAFFIC EDUCATION
Schools

Elementary
- tasked to educate children to obey traffic rules through their programmed curricula

Secondary
- tasked to educate students in obeying tha traffic rules by imposing school policies intended for the welfare of the students

Higher Education
- they offer subjects on driving and traffic safety course or any allied subjects

TRAFFIC EDUCATION
- is priceless gem in the entire scale of social order of the road
- is the process of inculcating to an individual the knowledge, skill, responsibilities and values to become a fully developed person
- the key to smooth traffic flow is discipline and to acquire discipline people must be educated

PURPOSE OF DRIVER EDUCATION
To Instill awareness of one's legal and moral responsibilities in traffic; and
To teach abilities required for one to be eligible for a driver’s license.

SAFETY CAMPAIGN
  - the aim of this campaign is to make road users behave properly
  - focuses on public information attitudes; this is characterized as road propaganda

BIORHYTHM
- the theory asserting that man exhibit constant variation of energy and mood  states

The Environmental Factors in Man’s Theorized Cycles and Interpretation of Biorhythm
The exchange of Light and darkness
The four seasons
Wet and dry seasons
The waxing and waning of the moon

The Biorhythm Cycle
23 days of physical cycle
28 days of emotional cycle
33 days of intellectual cycle

The High State
Physically high
- people are energetic, strong and agile
Emotionally high
- people are creative, artistic and happy
Intellectually high
- people think quickly and logically

The Low State
Physically low
- people tend to be tired and succumb to sickness
Emotionally low
- people are moody, irritable and depressed
Intellectually low
- people find it difficult to think logically and lacks coordination

LEGAL SYSTEM FOR TRAFFIC SAFETY

LICENSING SYSTEM
- it is the system of issuing license to any person who is qualified to fulfill the responsibilities required by the licens
- administered by the LTO

DRIVER’S LICENSE
- issued to the drivers as privilege granted by the government providing statutory qualification

LICENSING PROCEDURE

REQUISITES FOR ISSUANCE OF LICENSE
- At least 16 years old for student’s permit
- 17 years old for sub-professional
- 18 years old for professional

KINDS OF DRIVER’S LICENSE
Student permit
Non-professional
Professional
Military
International

RESTRICTION CODE
Restriction Code No 1 - limited to drive motor motorcycles
Restriction Code No 2 - limited to drive vehicle weighing not more than 4500 kg
Restriction Code No 3 - limited to drive vehicles weighing more than 4500 kg
Restriction Code No 4 - limited to drive weighing 4500 kg and with automatic transmission only
Restriction Code No 5 - limited to drive vehicle with automatic clutch and weighing more than 4500 kg
 
DRIVER
- Licensed operator of a vehicle

DUITES OF DRIVER IN CASE OF ACCIDENTS
Stop immediately.
Show the license to the victim and give the true name, address and contact number.
Driver is not allowed to leave the scene without aiding the victim.

EXCEPTIONS TO THE PRECEEDING TOPIC
If he is in imminent danger of being seriously harmed by reason of accident;
If he reports the accident to the nearest police station; and
If he has summoned the physician or nurse to aid the victim.

CONDUCTOR
- Licensed person allowing limited number of passengers, freight or cargo in public utility truck or buses

TEN COMMANDEMENTS OF TRAFFIC
KEEP RIGHT - (two lanes, two ways) in case of one way the left lane shall be the fast lane and the slow lane is the right.
OBSERVE ROAD COURTESY- yield to emergency vehicle, pedestrians, trains, vehicle with right of way, vehicles ahead, large vehicles, uphill traffic, vehicles with momentum, straight traffic, and traffic signs.

Emergency Vehicles:
Vehicle with physician
Ambulance on emergency call
Vehicle with wounded or sick person
AFP/ PNP vehicle on official call
Vehicle in pursuit of criminals
A police or fire on call

RIGHT OF WAY RULE
the right to proceed ahead of another vehicle or pedestrian

Intersection- when two or more vehicle is entering an intersection the one on the left will give way to the right vehicle.
Pedestrian- drivers should yield to pedestrian crossing except at intersection whereas the movement of vehicles is regulated by a police officer.
Through highway/ railroad crossing- the driver shall bring to a full stop before traversing to an intersection. If there is no hazard the driver may slowdown to 5mph.
Police /emergency vehicle- all drivers should yield to emergency to emergency vehicle except as directed by traffic enforcer. Fire trucks are accepted to speed limit but they are prohibited to have unnecessary speed.
From private road to highway- vehicle from private road must yield to that on a highway.

PROHIBITED PARKING
Places where parking is prohibited:
Near an intersection
Crosswalk/ pedestrian lane
Within 6 meters from drive way of any response installation, fire hydrant and private roads
Double parking
Sidewalks, alleys, foot of the bridge
Places wherein official signs are posted
4. WHEN IN DOUBT, DO NOT OVERTAKE.
- overtaking lane is the lane to the left of overtaken vehicle going in the same direction, overtaken vehicle is the privileged vehicle

CONSIDER THESE IF YOU OVERTAKE:
Signal the intention.
Make sure that the overtaking lane is clear and free of oncoming vehicle for sufficient distance to facilitate proper overtake.
Maneuver at own risk, the vehicle being overtaken is the privileged vehicle. Drivers keep his lane, maintain speed and yield to overtaking vehicle.
He shall increase his speed until the overtaken vehicle has cleared the way
In a two lanes, on a divided roadway, they may use either of the lanes.
In an expressway with fast and slow lanes, on a divided roadway, they may use either of the lanes.
Overtaking is prohibited at crest of a grade curve, railway crossing, at the intersection and between construction and caution.

5. THE BUS STOP RULE
The buses queue up in a single file in their order arrival.
Lead bus moving toward the center of column of busses lining on the bus stop zone, and remain until zone is filled with busses, but longer than three minutes.

6. RULE TO PREVENT OR UNTANGLE TRAFFIC JAMS
- Keep lanes and intersection open in heavy and slow traffic to avoid overtaking. In a construction, vehicles should merge alternately.

7. OBSERVE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURES
- Observe and obey traffic notices sign like notices and pavement markings.

8. THE PHILOSOPHY OF PINOY DRIVER
- Motorist should observe equity of the lead vehicle, doctrine of the last clear chance on rotunda drive.

9. ON PEDESTRIAN
- Keep off the roadway except when crossing on crosswalk. Wait embark and alight at bus or jeepney stop.

10. REMEMBER THE INTERNATIONAL SAFETY REMINDER- “SAFETY FIRST”

TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT
- the action taken by the police to compel obedience to traffic laws and ordinance regulating the use and movement of motor vehicle for the purpose of creating a deterrent to unlawful behavior by all potential violators

TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCER
- a person duly deputized by an agency of government authorized by law to enforce traffic laws, rules and regulations

POLICE TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT
- the part performed by the police and other agencies with police power including deterrent to law violations created by the presence of uniformed police officer and their special equipment, special assistance to court and prosecutor and incidental service to highway users

COURT TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT
- the performed by the court through adjudication and penalization

POLICE COURT ENFORCEMENT PROCESS

FIVE ESSENTIAL STEPS
DETECTION - wholly police activities and entails looking for defects in the behavior motorist, pedestrian, vehicle, equipment and roadway condition.
APPREHENSION - a police responsibility wherein the police are required action to prevent continued and future violation.
PROSECUTION -  it is a court function, the police also provides corresponding influence through preparation and introduction of evidence or close contact with the prosecution office.
ADJUDICATION -  it is court function, the police provides influence on this step by as a witness to the prosecution by supplying additional evidence. It determines the guilt or innocence of the accused.
PENALIZATION - the imposition of penalty upon the accused. Penalty can be influenced by previous records of conviction as provided by the police.

GOALS OF ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Increase safety level
Increase traffic efficiency
Ensure harmony and comfortable environment
Maximize safety


ACTIVITIES OF TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT
Preventive activities
Persuasive activities
Punitive activities

MAJOR ELEMENTS OF TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM
Enforcement system
Road user system
Traffic system

TRAFFIC LAWS AND THE ROLE OF ENFORCEMENT

CHARACTERISTIC OF TRAFFIC LAWS
Laws are developed from experiences of the public over the years.
Laws reflect beliefs, behavior and standards agreed upon by society.

VIOLATIONS
- those act and omissions against traffic laws

CLASSIFICATION OF VIOLATION
Hazardous traffic violations that cause danger to road users. Unsafe behavior and unsafe conditions are the causes of these violations.
Non-hazardous violations that do not affect safety of the public but affect the use of roads.

REASONS WHY PEOPLE ARE VIOLATING TRAFFIC LAWS
Physical infirmities
Ignorance
Mental disorder
Lack of training
Wrong attitude
Habitual violators
PUV drivers are aiming for more compensation

POLICE TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS
these include arrest and citation of any person

PURPOSES:
Prevent such violation from endangering the public and inconvenience
Prevent continued violation
Discourage future violation

KINDS OF ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS
Traffic arrest - the taking of a person into custody of the law. It is made when:
  a) the offense is serious;
b) detection is needed to avoid continued violation; and
c) there is reasonable doubt that violators may not appear in court.

Traffic citation - made to compel violators to appear in court in absence of arrest.
Traffic warning - an act reminding the driver of his violation in order for him to not do it again. No arrest or citation is made.

TYPES OF WARNING
Visual warning - using gestures and signals.
Verbal warning - oral warning made when there is newly enacted law
Written warning - combination of two preceding types with written note of citation.

TRAFFIC PATROL
- part of traffic supervision by patrolling to ensure public obedience

OBJECTIVES:
Deterrence of violators
Detection and apprehension
Observation and reporting of traffic condition and road condition
Providing certain services to public


TYPES OF PATROL
Line patrol- it is assigned to a particular place
Area patrol- type of patrol assigned to an area of vicinity

TRAFFIC OBSERVATION
Stationary traffic observation - officer is assigned at specific place
Conspicuous traffic observation - officer attracts attention
Visible traffic observation - stationary observation that the observer is in full view
concealed traffic observation - observer is not visible to the public

THINGS TO CONSIDER IN PURSUIT AS TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT
Decision - nature of violation
Pursuit technique
Safety driving technique

STOPPING AND APPROACHING TRAFFIC VIOLATORS
It must be done with consideration to safety of both parties engaging
Upon approaching officer must be from the left side from the rear, be alert
 
TRAFFIC ROAD CHECK
- It is done to inspect the following:
Faulty vehicle equipment
Registration and licensing procedure
Intoxication or cargo check

TYPES OF TRAFFIC CHECK
Faulty vehicle
Officer directing road check

CONSIDERATION IN ROAD CHECK
Minimum delay to motorist
Thorough checking procedure
Protection and safety of parties involved
Timing and location and frequency

OBJECTIVE IN DEALING WITH VIOLATORS
Immediate objective- to act against the person
Ultimate objective- to change the future of a person

POINTS TO REMEMBER
Violators are diversified
Conflicts arises in violators
You are professional officer, there is no professional violator
Be alert for an unexpected

TRAFFIC SUPERVISION, DIRECTION AND CONTROL
- an act of overseeing the traffic to keep order on street and highways within existing laws

POLICE WORKS
Accident investigation
Less serious offense
Serious traffic offense

OFFICERS ARE REQUIRED TO BE SKILLED IN THE FOLLOWING INSTANCES:
Accident scene
Emergencies
Planned and special events
Regular points and integration control
Directing pedestrian movement

OFFICERS ARE REQUIRED TO KNOW HOW TO DIRECT IN THE FOLLOWING PLACES:
Not signalized intersection
Signalized intersection
Between intersection


SUPERVISED ROUTE
- A street or highway on which traffic is supervised to some considerable degree

POLICE TRAFFIC DIRECTION
- It involves telling the public how and when they should not stand and move

POINT/ AREA CONTROL
- It is the part of the traffic direction concerning the control of vehicular/ pedestrian movement

POLICE TRAFFIC ESCORT
- It involves mobile supervision of traffic movement, directing orally and visually are done to allow free and safe movement of escorted vehicles.

TRAFFIC DIRECTION AND CONTROL
- It is the control direction of traffic units according to proportionate time to prevent traffic accident to maintain smooth flow of traffic.

MEANS OF DIRECTING
Signaling
Whistling
Gestures

HAND SIGNAL
Use hand signals
Use uniform signals
It must be clear
Don’t make verbal
Be alert, stand erect
Look to the person when signaling
Arm signal should be shoulder high
Supplement it with whistle
Hang your hand when not in use
10. Constant waving of hands causes confusion
11. Maintain 90 degrees turn of the body
12. When stopping point to a man you want to stop
13. Hand signal should be with arm and palm facing the person

WHISTLE SIGNAL
One long blast for STOP
Two short snappy blast for GO
Three blast to be used TO ASK FOR ASSISTANCE

A. COMMAND OF TRAFFIC
- Stand where you can be seen with firm and posture

B. GESTURE IN STOPPING
- Point the arm and index finger toward the vehicle to be stopped then show your palm
- Repeat the process at the opposite side
- Not lower your arm until traffic is ceased

C. GESTURE TO START TRAFFIC
- Stand sideways
- point your index finger toward the vehicle to start, hold it till he verified, swing your hand up to your chin
- drop and repeat the process at the opposite side
- Use it when they are slow or hesitant to move

D. RIGHT TURN GESTURES
- Not required at intersection
- Point to the vehicle you want to turn and point to the direction of turning
- Vehicles to your left for right turn bend your left arm and allow a thumb sign

E. LEFT TURN GESTURES
- Vehicles turn left from right, stop vehicle from right and direct vehicle to the left
- Left turn vehicle from your right, turn around and repeat the procedure above
- Street with one lane only
a. allow space for ongoing straight and turning left vehicles
b. direct finger left turning car with proper finger left
c. semaphore signals may be used

F. TWO-OFFICER TRAFFIC
- The team leader shall initiate command followed by the members.

TECNIQUES IN TRAFFIC DIRECTION AND CONTROL
Keep intersection open
Don’t allow motorist to cross without exit
Stop motorist at their lane
Prefer to stop the last moving vehicle

TRAFFIC JAM
- It is caused by such factors as vehicular accident, stalled vehicle, absence of traffic enforcer and road construction.
PROCEDURES IN TRAFFIC JAM
Determine the cause
In case of accident conduct fast investigation
In case of engine trouble assist the motorist in pushing car to place
Establish oneself and conduct systematic flow of traffic
Observe the traffic flow if it smooth, if not repeat procedure no. 1
Implement traffic regulation to prevent jam

RESPONSIBILITIES OF TRAFFIC ENFORCER
Enforce the law without fear or favor and assist public when needed
In an intersection, remember the following:
a. personal safety of enforcer
b. policeman’s visibility
c. visibility of officers to traffic
d. non obstruction to traffic
e. ability to effect necessary control
3. Officer shall not leave his post during tour of duty without permission from higher authority. In case personal necessity he should notify the station.
4. Respond immediately to emergency calls and notify the station
5. Be calm and control the temper even under provoking situation
6. He should be in proper uniform
7. In apprehending issue citation, and do it in one minute

PEDESTRIAN CONTROL

PROGRAM OF PEDESTRIAN ENFORCEMENT BASICALLY DEPENDS ON THE FOLLOWING:
Campaign
Guiding on the post
Warning ticket

DRUNKEN DRIVERS
- it is a driver who drives under the influence of alcohol with 10% of intoxicating level

FIELD SOBRIETY TEST
Walk on straight line
One foot balance
Reading
Spelling
Counting from 1 to 10
Video tape the movement
Photograph the unguarded movement

CHEMICAL TEST
Blood test
Urine test
Perspiration test
Breath test
Skin test


EVIDENCE AGAINST DRUNKEN DRIVERS
Drivers admission
Co-occupants testimony
Material witnesses testimony
Photograph of drunken driver
Video/ voice tape of driver
Officers testimony

LEGAL ACTION AGAINST DRIVER
Submit him to the nearest laboratory for testing
Impound the vehicle
Confiscate the license
Recommend the suspension of privilege
Sue him for violation
If acquitted recommend suspension of license


TRAFFIC ENGINEERING
- defined as calculating manipulation or direction. It includes forecasting of future traffic demands.

FUNCTIONS
Fact finding survey and recommendation of traffic laws
Supervision and maintenance of the application of traffic devices
Planning of traffic regulation

OBJECTIVES
Achieve free and efficient and rapid flow of traffic
Prevent traffic accident
Promotion of traffic engineering
Show that good police action and performance makes engineering plans effective

APPLICATION OF THE OBJECTIVES OF TRAFFIC ENGINEERING
Habitually congested commercial areas
Heavily traveled thoroughfares
Congested local areas and intersection
Special occasion of event
Disaster or emergency
School crossing

METHODS IN ACHIEVING OBJECTIVES OF TRAFFIC ENGINEERING

PLANNING AND GEOMETRIC DESIGN
- composition of traffic stream
- traffic volume and capacity
- origin and destination

II. FACTORS INFLUENCING DESIGN
- traffic composition
- traffic volume
- vehicle speed
- movement of traffic
- performance value

III. REGULATION AND CONTROL
Limited to public safety and convenience
Limitation imposed on road users
General rule of road use and conduct
- speed
- overtaking
- right of way
- lateral placement
- pedestrian right and duty
- general rules on parking
d. Prohibited and restriction
- one way regulation
- speed control
- curb parking control
- turning regulation
- stop rule

TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICE

1. ELEMENTARY REQUISITES
- Compel attention
- convey simple meaning at a glance
- allowing time for response
- command respect

2. FUNDAMENTAL TRAITS
- design and outward aspect
- position and placement
- maintenance and condition, appearance and visibility

3. TYPES OF TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICE
- traffic or road sign
- pavement markings
- traffic light
- traffic island

FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
Regulatory devices
Warning devices
Guiding devices

AIMS OF SIGNAL CONTROL
Reduce traffic conflict and delay
Reduce accident
Economize police time

ADVANTAGES OF SIGNAL INSTALLATION
Made for well ordered movement
Reduce accident frequency
Provide means of interpreting heavy traffic
Economical over manual control at intersection
Coordinating in providing continuous flow of traffic
Increase traffic capacity

CLASSES OF TRAFFIC SIGNS

DANGER WARNING SIGNS
REGULATING SIGNS
- priority signs
- prohibitory signs
- mandatory signs
c. INFORMATIVE SIGNS
- advance sign
- place identification sign
- confirmatory sign

PRINCIPLES OF SIGNS
Red triangle connotes hazard
Red ring with diagonal line connotes prohibition
Blue/ green provides information
Signs on blue disc give positive instruction

INTERNATIONAL SIGN
Round and red; regulatory movement
Round black yellow sign, warning sign
Equilateral triangle red sign, directing to yield the right of way
Octagon red and white, STOP
Red triangle and black sign, approaching danger zone

TRAFFIC LIGHTS
Red- stop
Amber- slowdown
Green- go

PAVEMENT MARKINGS
Arrows point to direction
Straight lines means no overtaking
Broken lines means overtaking is allowed

ROAD CLASSIFICATION

ACCORDING TO POLITICAL SUBDIVISION
National road- right of way 20 to 120 meters
Provincial road- link between to municipalities, 15 to 60 meters
City road- interlink in the city, 15 meters
Municipal road- within town proper 10 meters
Barangay road- from market to town 2 meters

ACCORDING TO TOPOGRAPHICAL TERRAIN
Flat road
Zigzag
Steep hill
Down hill
Winding road
Mountainous road
Roller coaster road

FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF ROADWAY
VEHICLES PASSES SAFELY ON
- climb lane
- overtaking lane
- acceleration lane
- turning lane
2. PART OF THE ROAD USED FOR:
a. standing lane
b. stopping lane
c.  Bus stop

SIDEWALK
- it is the portion of the road that answers the safety of pedestrians

ACCIDENT
- that occurrence in a sequence of events which usually produces unintended injury, death or property damage

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT
 - an accident involving travel transportation on a traffic way

MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT
- event resulting in unintended injury or property damage attributable directly or indirectly to the action of a motor vehicle or its load

KINDS OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS
In the investigation of traffic accidents, it is imperative for the traffic investigator to know the kinds of accidents occurred in order to map out the necessary activities to be done when responding and investigating.

NON-MOTOR VEHICLE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT
- refers to any accident occurring on a traffic way involving persons using the traffic way or travel or transportation, but not involving a motor vehicle in motion (ex. Pedestrian and a cyclist in a traffic way)
2. MOTOR VEHICLE NON-TRAFFIC ACCIDENT
- any motor vehicle accident which occurs entirely in any place other than a traffic way (ex. Accident on a private driveway)

3. MOTOR VEHICLE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT
- any motor vehicle accident occurring on a traffic way (ex. Collision between automobiles on a highway)

CHAIN OF EVENTS IN A VEHICULAR ACCIDENT
PERCEPTION OF HAZARD – it is seeing, feeling or hearing and understanding the usual or unexpected movement or condition that could be taken as a sign of an accident about to happen
START OF EVASIVE ACTION – it is the first action taken by a traffic unit to escape from a collision course or otherwise avoid a hazard
INITIAL CONTACT – the first accidental touching of an object collision course or otherwise avoids a hazard
MAXIMUM ENGAGEMENT – it is the greatest collapse or overlap in a collision; the force between the traffic unit and the object collided with are greatest at maximum engagement
DISENGAGEMENT – it is the separation of a traffic unit in motion from an object with which it has collided; the force between the object ceases at this time
STOPPING – this is when the traffic units involved come to rest; it usually stabilizes the accident situation
INJURY – it is receiving bodily harm; this event does not necessarily occur after the accident but within any of the chain of events; it may also happen right after the evasive action taken by the drivers involved or during the initial contact

STEPS TO BE TAKEN DURING TRAFFIC ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

STEP 1. UPON LEARNING THE INCIDENT CHECK THE FOLLOWING
What happened
Who are involved
Where and when it happened
How it happened
Why it happened

STEP 2. WHEN EMERGENCY UNDER CONTROL
1. Preliminary question to driver
- who is driving
- ascertain sign of nervousness
2. Gather clues for identification
3. Ask other witnesses
4. Examine driver’s condition
- check the license and other record
- check registration
- verify ownership
- account step by step events
5. Position and location of vehicles
- lights
- gear position
- mark the position of vehicle
- look for the unusual things inside the car
6. Form preliminary opinion
7. Photograph skid mark and location for later measuring
8. Record place in which person/ damaged vehicle is placed
 
STEP 3. AFTER GETTING SHORT-LIVED EVIDENCE
Make a test skid
Ascertain if the violation is tantamount to arrest
Complete examination of vehicle
Locate key event or point of impact
Additional photographs
- vehicle damages
- view obstruction
- present condition
- control devices
6. Measure scale or diagram
7. Get additional facts at the scene
8. Report to station by radio

STEP 4. AFTER LEAVING THE SCENE
Get the medical report
Notify the relatives
Develop the photographs
Analyze the specimen
Complete accident report, made copies and file.
Complete data on the investigators’ report
Reconstruct the accident
Complete the investigation and file it

STEP 5. IF THE CASE GOES TO COURT
1. Seek the desire of the prosecutor to strengthen the case.
2. Return to the scene of the incident to gather additional data
3. Make a pre-trial conference
4. Testify in court
5. Arrange the file for future purposes

IN CASE OF INJURIES:
Stop arterial bleeding
Ask for help
Protect the wound for exposure
Cordon the place

CLASSIFICATION OF VEHICLE ACCIDENT ACCORDING TO SEVERITY
Fatal
non fatal
Property damage

CLASSIFICATION OF VEHICLE ACCIDENT ACCORDING TO KEY EVENT
Running off road
Non-collision on road
- overturning
     3. Collision on road of vehicles with the ff:
- pedestrian
- moving vehicle
- parked vehicle
- bicycle
- railroad train
- fixed objects

CAUSES OF MOTOR VEHICLE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT
 A. SIMULTANEOUS FACTORS
Road condition
Driver’s attitude
Weather condition
B. SEQUENTIAL FACTORS
Unsafe greater speed
Defective vehicle
C. OPERATIONAL FACTOR
- Road hazard
- driver’s non compliance
D. PERCEPTION FACTOR
- driver’s inability to react
- driver’s faulty action to escape

HIT AND RUN INVESTIGATION
- This applies to drivers who failed to stop at a road accident

LEGAL CASES TO BE FILED:
Abandonment of one’s victim
Failure to lend assistance
Reckless imprudence resulting to homicide
Reckless imprudence resulting to damage to property
Failure to render assistance to victim
Violation of section 55 of RA 4136
Civil liability


COMMON NATURE OF HIT-AND-RUN
Ran over pedestrian
Sideswiped pedestrian
Collided with moving vehicle while overtaking
Collided with moving vehicle while overtaking on opposite direction
Damaged parked vehicle
Crushed police road block
Bumped by stray animal

INVESTIGATING FOR UNKNOWN FACTS
Victims identity
Kind of vehicle
The make of vehicle
The driver
The eyewitnesses

FAST TRACKED INVESTIGATION
Send the corpse to laboratory after investigating
Obtain fingerprint and other specimen and send it to laboratory
Splintered glass can be a lead
Broken headlamp manifest a run over
Paints might stick at victim belonging
Don’t forget to bring paper and pencil for initial note taking

EXAMINATION OF RECOVERED VEHICLE
Recover physical evidence immediately
Measure the vehicle
Photograph the vehicle, debris and chipped off part
Check the interior of the car for driver’s identity

INVESTIGATION AID FOR TRAFFIC ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
Motor vehicle certified registration
Repair shop
Department records

DOCUMENTS TO BE FILED IN CASE OF DEATH
Referral slip
Arrest report
Traffic accident report (TAIC)
Affidavit of parties involved
Witness’ statement
Photograph

DOCUMENTS TO BE FILED IN CASE OF INJURY
Memorandum of preliminary investigation
TAIC
Estimated amount of damage, it is made by authorized repair shop
Affidavit of parties involve
Witness statement
photograph

COMMON WORDS AND PHRASES USED IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
MOTOR VEHICLE – any device which is self-propelled and every vehicle which is propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires, but not operated upon rails
KEY EVENT – an event on the road which characterizes the manner of occurrence of a motor vehicle traffic accident
DEBRIS – the scattered broken parts of vehicles, rubbish, dust and other materials left at the scene of the accident caused by a collision
SKID MARKS – these are marks left on the roadway by tires which are not free to rotate, usually because brakes are applied strongly and the wheels locked
TRAFFIC UNIT – any person using a traffic way for travel, parking or other purposes as a pedestrian or driver, including any vehicle, or animal.
HAZARD -  a hazard is generated when a critical space-motion relationships between a traffic unit and another object develops due to the movement of either or both (ex. A curve in the path is a hazard; another traffic unit in the path is a hazard.)
SAFE SPEED – the speed adjusted to the potential or possible hazards or the road and traffic situation ahead; safe speed on the road is determined by the road rather than the particular driver of a vehicle (ex. A curve ahead is a hazard and a safe speed for it is a speed at which it can be taken comfortably
STRATEGY – the adjusting of speed, position on the road, and direction of motion, giving signals of intent to turn or slow down, or any other action in situations involving potential hazards
TACTIC – any action taken by the traffic unit to avoid hazardous situations like steering, braking or accelerating to avoid collision or other accident.
IMPACT – the striking of one body against another or a collision of a motor vehicle with another motor vehicle.
CONTACT DAMAGE – damage to a vehicle resulting from direct pressure of some foreign object in a collision or roll over; it is usually indicated by striations, rub-off of material or puncture.
FACTOR – any circumstance contributing to a result without which the result could not have occurred or it is an element necessary to produce the result, but not by itself sufficient.
PRIMARY CAUSE – a misnomer loosely applied to the most obvious or easily explained factor in the cause of an accident or the most easily modified condition factor.
CAUSE – the combination of simultaneous and sequential factors without any one of which result could not have occurred.
ATTRIBUTE – any inherent characteristics of a road, a vehicle, or a person that affects the probability of a traffic accident.
MODIFIER – a circumstance that alters an attribute permanently or temporarily.

Criminal Detection & Investigation

NOTES ON CRIME DETECTION AND INVESTIGATION

CDI-1: FUNDAMENTALS OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION


CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION – is an art which deals with the identity and location of the offender and provides evidence of guilt through criminal proceedings.

INVESTIGATION DEFINED: The collection of facts to accomplish a three-fold aim:
to identify the guilty party;
to locate the guilty party; and
to provide evidence of his guilt.

PRIMARY JOB OF AN INVESTIGATOR
The primary job of the investigator is to discover whether or not an offense has been committed under the law, after determining what specific offense has been committed, he must discover how it was committed, by whom, where it was committed, when and why it was committed (Cardinal points of Investigation 5W’s and 1H).

SIX CARDINAL POINTS OF INVESTIGATION
WHAT specific offense has been committed? Nature of crime
WHERE crime was committed? Place or location
WHEN it was committed? Time and date
WHOM it was committed? Persons/s involved
WHY it was committed? Reason or motive of
Committing the crime
HOW it was committed? Manner, method or modus
operandi

QUALITIES OF A GOOD INVESTIGATOR
Perseverance
Intelligence
Honest
Understanding of the people and environment
Keen power of observation

TRAINING
Training, as one of the foundations of investigation, is concededly a vital ingredient in the creation of a total investigator. Experience alone does not make one good investigator. Many who had been hostage to this notion often ended in jeopardy. The ideal conjugal partnership is training and experience. The fusion of the best training and vast experience is a formidable force that can threat even the most sophisticated technology and syndicated crimes. The necessity of training as a purveyor of change builds the investigator’s confidence. It widens his vision for professional growth and strengthens his will to survive and prevail over crises.
The National Forensic Science Training Institute (NFSTI) under the Philippine Public Safety College is the institution that trains uniformed personnel of the Philippine National Police to become a certified investigator.

THREE TOOLS OF INVESTIGATION

INFORMATION
It is the knowledge/data which an investigator acquired from other persons and records.

Classes of Information
Regular Sources – records, files from government and non-government agencies, news items.
Cultivated Sources – information gathered upon initiative of the investigator from informants, vendors, taxicab driver, GRO, and others.
Grapevine Sources – these are information coming from the underworld characters such as prisoners and ex-convicts.
INTERVIEW AND INTERROGATION
INTERVIEW – Is a conversation with a purpose, motivated by a desire to obtain certain information from the person being interviewed as to what was done, seen, felt, heard, tasted, smell or known.
This is the questioning of a person believed to possess knowledge that is in official interest to the investigator.

BASIC ASSUMPTIONS
Nobody has to talk to law enforcers. No law compels a person to talk to the police if he does not want to. Therefore, people will have to be persuaded, always within legal and ethical limits, to talk to law enforcers. This makes interviewing an art.

I.R.O.N.I.C. FORMAT
The interview of a witness can be described by its acronym ‘IRONIC’ which stands for Identity, Rapport, Opening Statement, Narration, Inquiry, and conclusion.
Identity – prior to the commencement of an interview, the investigator should identify himself to the subject by name, rank and agency.  Except, when there is no need to know the officer’s identity.
Rapport – it is good to get the positive feeling of the subject towards the investigators, such friendly atmosphere is a vital for both the subject and the investigator t have a better interaction.
Opening Statement – the investigator must have to indicate why the subject is being contracted.
Narration – the witness should be allowed to tell all he knows with little interruptions from the investigator.
Inquiry – after all information have been given by the subject, that is the time for the investigator to as question to clarify him about the case under investigation.
Conclusions – after the interview, it is but proper to close the interview with outmost courtesy and thanking the subject for his cooperation.

RULES TO BE OBSERVED IN QUESTIONING
One question at a time
Avoiding implied answer
Simplicity of the questions
Saving faces
Avoid close ended questions (yes or no)

INTERROGATION –is a questioning of a person suspected of having committed an offense or a person who is reluctant to make full disclosure of information in his possession which is pertinent to the investigation.

What are the purposes of Interrogation?
To obtain confession to the crime
To induce the suspect to make admission
To learn the facts of the crime
To learn the identity of the accomplice
To develop information which will lead to the recovery of the fruits of the crime
To discover the details of other crimes participated by the suspect

INTERROGATION TECHNIQUES
Emotional Appeal
Place the subject in the proper frame of mind.  The investigator should provide emotional stimuli that will prompt the subject to unburden himself by confiding. Analyze the subject’s personality and decide what motivation would prompt him to tell the truth, and then provide those motives through appropriate emotional appeals.
Sympathetic appeal
The suspect may feel the need for sympathy or friendship when he is apparently in trouble.  Gestures of friendship may win his cooperation.
Kindness
The simplest technique is to assume that the suspect will confess if he is treated in a kind and friendly manner.
Extenuation
The investigator indicates he does not consider his subject’s indiscretion a grave offense.
Shifting the blame
The interrogator makes clear his belief that the subject is obviously not the sort of person who usually gets mixed up in a crime like this. The interrogator could tell from the start that he was not dealing with a fellow who is a criminal by nature and choice.
Mutt and Jeff
Two (2) Agents are employed.
Mutt, the relentless investigator, who is not going to waste any time because he knows that the subject is guilty.
Jeff, on the other hand, is obviously a kind-hearted man.
Bluff on a Split Pair
This is applicable when there is more than one suspect. The suspects are separated and one is informed that other has talked.
Pretense of Physical Evidence
The investigator may pretend that certain physical evidence has found by laboratory experts against him.
Jolting
May be applied to calm and nervous subjects by constantly observing the suspects, the investigator chooses a propitious moment to shout a pertinent question and appear as though he is beside himself with rage.  The subject may be unnerved to the extent of confessing:

CUSTODIAL INTERROGATION/INVESTIGATION – is the questioning of a law enforcement officer on a person under custody and otherwise deprived of his freedom or liberty. This is the stage in investigation where there is strict observance of the Miranda Doctrine.

MIRANDA DOCTRINE – this case which entitled Miranda vs. Arizona, is a US Supreme Court Jurisprudence which laid down the constitutional rights of the accused during custodial investigation. It was incorporated in our 1973 Constitution and later in the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines.


INSTRUMENTATION
It is the application of instruments and methods of physical science to the detection of crimes.  In cases where there are no significant physical evidence to be found, then the use of instrumentation is relatively unimportant.

PHASES/STAGES OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION
Identification of criminals
Tracing and locating the criminal
Gathering of evidence to prove the guilt of the criminal

IDENTIFICATION OF CRIMINALS

METHODS OF IDENTIFYING CRIMINALS
By confession or admission of the criminal himself
Identification by accounts or testimonies of eyewitnesses
Identification by circumstantial evidence
Identification by associative evidence
Identification by the Method of Operation (Modus Operandi)

CONFESSION– is the direct acknowledgement of guilt arising from the commission of a crime.

Types of Confession
Extra-Judicial Confession – those made by the suspect during custodial investigation.
Judicial Confession– those made by the accused in open court. The plea of guilt may be during arraignment or in any stage of the proceedings where the accused changes his plea of not guilty to guilty.

ADMISSION– is a self-incriminatory statement by the subject falling short of an acknowledgement of guilt. It is an acknowledgement of a fact or circumstances from which guilt maybe inferred. It implicates but does not incriminate. It is also an acknowledgement that a fact, action or circumstances are true which strongly infer or directly admit guilt but lacks the detail of the elements of the crime.

RULES TO BE OBSERVED IN TAKING CONFESSION OR ADMISSION
Confession or admission must be taken preferably in writing and under oath
It must be written in the language known and understood by the accused, if not it must be clearly translated
It must be freely and voluntary given by the accused
Under the New Constitution, it must be taken in the presence of competent and independent counsel chosen by the accused

KINDS OF CRIMINALS IDENTIFIED BY WITNESSES
Known criminals
Unknown criminals
Methods of Identification by witness
Verbal description
Photographic files (Rogues Gallery)
General Photograph
Artist sketch (Composite Criminal Illustration)
The value of identification by eyewitness depends on:
The ability to observe and remember distinct appearance of suspect;
Prevailing condition of visibility;
The lapse of time.
What are the procedures of identification by eyewitness?
Physical line-up – is a means of selecting a suspect from a group of innocent persons usually composed of seven to ten persons.  The purpose of line-up is to eliminate the power of suggestion.
Physical show-up – only one person is shown to the witness usually at the scene of the crime and made immediately after the arrest of the suspect.

CIRCUMSTANTIAL EVIDENCE - facts or circumstances from which, either alone or in connection with other facts, the identity of the person can be inferred.

What must be inferred to prove identity by circumstantial evidence?
Motive – is what induces the criminal to act
Intent –is the result or accomplishment of the act
Opportunity –is the physical possibility that the suspect could have committed the crime.
It could be inferred from the following:
The suspect could have been in the vicinity of the crime scene at the time it was committed.
Knowledge of the criminal objective.
Absence of an alibi on the part of the criminal.

PHYSICAL EVIDENCE TO IDENTIFY CRIMINALS

CORPUS DELICTI– is the body of the crime or fact of specific loss or injury sustained. It constitutes the essential parts or elements in the commission of the crime.
ASSOCIATIVE EVIDENCE – these are the pieces of evidence that will link the suspect to the crime scene.  The suspect may leave some clues at the scene such as weapons, tools, garments or prints.
TRACING EVIDENCE – articles which assist the investigator in locating the criminal. Stolen goods in the possession of the suspect in an example of tracing evidence.
MODUS OPERANDI – is the method of operation by a specific criminal or criminal syndicate. It is a distinct pattern of how a crime is committed and is established by a series of crimes under one classification. The modus operandi of one criminal is distinct and different from the other. It is a criminal trademark, logo or brandname.

TRACING AND LOCATING THE CRIMINALS

INFORMANT – is a person who gives information to the police relevant to a criminal case about the activities of criminals or syndicates.

TYPES OF INFORMANTS
Anonymous informant – do not wish to be identified.
Rival elimination informant – to eliminate competition.
False informant – reveals information of no consequence or value.
Frightened informant – motivated by anxiety.
Self-aggrandizing – hangs about the fringes of the criminals.
Mercenary informant – gives information for a price.
Double crosser informant – to get more information from the police.
Woman informant – female associate of the criminals.
Legitimate informant – operators of legitimate business establishments.
MOTIVES OF INFORMANTS
Vanity
Civic-mindedness
Fear
Repentance
Avoidance of punishment
Competition
Revenge
Jealousy
Remuneration

SURVEILLANCE – is the secret observation of persons, places,and vehicles for the purpose of obtaining information concerning the identities or activities of the subject.
Surveillance of Place (fixed/ stake-out)
Shadowing
Roping

SURVEILLANT – is the person who maintains the surveillance or performs the observation.

SUBJECT – the person or place being watched or surveyed.

KINDS OF SURVEILLANCE
Surveillance of places
Tailing or shadowing
Undercover investigation or roping

How to conduct surveillance of place?
A careful survey of the surrounding area should be made.  The character of the neighborhood, residents and transient should be noted.  The observation point should be selected properly.  When observation is conducted from a ‘plant’, surveillance agents must be extremely careful not to reveal their true activity.  Observation maybe made through a window or other aperture so as to be unnoticed from the outside.  Venetian blinds afford the best coverage, but may appear to be out of place of some buildings.  An alternative is to lower the roller of draw shades another inch from the window.  Binoculars are generally essentially equipment of the plants, as they facilitate positive identification of person entering or leaving the place under and observation.  A still or video camera with telephoto lens can also be used effectively.  Agents should take careful notes of what they observe and should record detailed descriptions of all individuals entering the target.  A chronological log is usually the best of recording pertinent occurrences.

TAILING OR SHADOWING – is the act of following a person, depends on the number of surveillant available, volume of pedestrian traffic and importance of concealing the surveillance.

METHODS OF SHADOWING
One man –extremely difficult and should be avoided, if unavoidable keep subject in view at all times.
Two man – two agents are employed to follow the subject.
ABC method – reduces the risk of losing the subject, affords greater security agents detection.
Progressive/Leap from method – poor chances of obtaining good results, agents are stations at a fixed point assuming that subject followed the same general route each day.
Combined foot-auto surveillance – employment of surveillants on foot and agents in an automobile.

What are the things that should be avoided during shadowing?
Don’t meet the eye of the subject
Don’t adopt a slinking, sleuthing, creeping manner
Don’t wear story book disguises
Don’t carry noticeable items
Don’t greet fellow agents
Don’t make notations ostensibly


How to detect foot surveillance?
A subject who is suspicious of being under surveillance may resort to trickery in order to verify his suspicion.  When a subject resort to such trickery, it is good policy to change agents, for the suspect may have ‘spotted’ one or more of his surveillants.
stopping abruptly and look back
casually looking around
reversing course/retracing steps
boarding bus and alighting just before they start
riding short distance on bus
circling the block on a taxi
entering a building and leaving immediately via another exit
stopping abruptly after turning a corner
using convoys
watching reflection in shop windows
walking slowly and rapidly at alternate intervals
dropping a piece of papers to see if anyone retrieves it
stopping to tie a shoe string, meanwhile looking around for surveillants
arranging with a friend in a shop, stores or other places to watch for surveillants.
How to elude foot surveillance?
Common method to elude foot surveillance in which surveillants must be prepared and guard against are the following:
jumping off a bus, trains just as the doors are about to close
leaving a building through the rear or side exits
losing one self in crowds
entering theaters and leaving immediately through an exit
pointing out one surveillant to a police to a generally require the agent to explain his action
using decoys
taking the last taxi at a stand
changing clothing

AUTOMOBILE SURVEILLANCE
The methods of auto surveillance to be used depends upon the numbers and type of surveillance vehicles available, the volume of vehicular traffic in the area, the importance of concealing the surveillance from the subject, and the subject’s estimated ability to detect and elude surveillance.  At all times each vehicle should be occupied by at least two agents; one to concentrate on driving, and the other to observe, take notes, operate radio equipment, or to dismount and continue the surveillance on foot.

How to detect automobile surveillance
As in the case of foot surveillance, a subject who believes he is being followed may resort to trickery in order to verify his suspicions.  Some of the common tricks employed:
Alternate fast and slow driving
Driving into dead-end streets
Frequency parking
Committing flagrant traffic on one way streets, and running through red lights
Stopping suddenly around curves or corners
Pulling into driveways
Speeding up a hill, then coasting slowly down
How to elude automobile surveillance
Committing traffic violations
Using double entrances to driveways; in one and out the other
Curbing through parking lots
Driving through congested areas
Deserting the vehicle behind curves or corners, but permitting the drivers to drive on as a decoy.
UNDERCOVER INVESTIGATION – is a form of investigation in which the investigator assumes a different and unofficial identity in order to obtain information.

DEFINITIONS
Undercover- an investigative technique in which the Agent’s/Investigator’s official identity is concealed to accomplish an investigative mission.
Natural cover- using the individual’s true identity, occupation or profession.
Artificial cover- the manufacture of documents, false documents, passports, or forged documents.

GATHERING EVIDENCE

CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION
It is the conduct of processes, more particularly, the recognition, search, collection, handling, preservation and documentation of physical evidence to include the identification and interview of witnesses and the arrest of suspect/s at the crime scene.

SOCO (Scene of the Crime Operation) – Republic Act6975 as Amended by Republic Act 8551 (PNP Law). The former law placed the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory as an Operational Support Unit. The Crime Laboratory established the so-called Scene of the Crime Operation (SOCO) which is field operation. This is now an innovation because the SOCO now gathers all evidence at the crime scene and takes custody of them, marking and tagging them which otherwise the duty of the criminal investigator before.

What Constitute a Crime Scene?
Crime scene can be understood to include all areas in which the criminal, any possible victim and any eyewitness move during the time the crime was committed.
The boundaries must be established so that the entire crime scene can be effectively preserved.
In some crimes, however, the crime scene may actually comprise several different sites.

GOLDEN RULE AT CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION
Never touch, move, or alter any object at the crime scene unless it has been photographed, measured, and sketched from any conceivable angle.

UPON RECEIPT OF THE CRIME INCIDENT

The Desk Officer shall:
Record the date and time the report/complaint was made, the identity of the person who made the report, place of the incident and a synopsis of the incident.
Inform his superior officer or the duty officer regarding the report.

The First Responder shall:
Cordon off the crime scene with whatever available materials like ropes, straws, human barricade, police line, etc.;
Evacuate injured persons to the nearest hospital;
Prepare to take the “dying declaration” of severely injured person, if any;
Prevent entry/exit of persons within the cordoned area; and
Prepare to brief the investigator of the situation upon their arrival.

CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION PROPER
A.  Receipt of Briefing and Designation of Command Post
Command Post – an area which, is ideally located adjacent to the Crime Scene where the CSI Evidence Custodian stays and receives the pieces of evidence turned over to him for safekeeping by the other evidence collectors.

Initiation of Preliminary Survey (Team Leader of CSI or SOCO)
Makes a general assessment of the scene;
Takes a cautious walk- through of the crime scene;
Takes down extensive note to document important factors;
Establishes the evidence most likely to be encountered;
Defines the extent of the search area;
Determines the personnel and equipment needed and makes specific assignments; and
From his assessments, he develops a general theory of the crime scene.

Preparation of Narrative Report
The Team leader uses the systematic approach in making a narrative report.

Documentation of the Crime Scene
The photographer begins taking photographs as soon as possible. The evidence collectors do not touch or moved any evidence once it is located until it has been identified, measured and recorded.

PHOTOGRAPHING THE CRIME SCENE
The main objective crime scene photography is to create an accurate objective visual record of the crime scene before any item ismoved as possible physical evidence.

MAJOR TYPES OF PICTORIAL VIEWS
General View or Long-Range – photograph of the over-all scene.
Distance:  From the doorway to the room and other corners of the room
Mid-Range View
Distance: Eight or ten feet from the victim
Close-up View – every physical evidence must be photographed in close-up view and for different angles.

CRIME SCENE SKETCHES
A rough sketch is prepared indicating the actual measurement of things with scale and proportion observed and oriented to the North Pole.  All necessary information is placed in the sketch.

ELEMENTS OF SKETCH
Measurement
Compass direction
Essential items
Scale and proportion
Legend
Title

SPECIFIC KINDS OF SKETCHES
Sketch of Locality- give picture of the scene, the crime and its environs, including neighboring buildings, roads, etc.
Sketch of the Ground- picture of the scene of the crime with its nearest physical surrounding.
Sketch in Details – the immediate scene only.
Exploded/ cross projection – gives the clear impression of the scene in cases where blood stains or bullet holes are found.

SKETCHING METHODS
Neighborhood sketch
Elevation Sketch
Floor Plan Sketch
Detailed Sketch

TYPES OF MEASUREMENTS
Rectangular coordinates method – a sketching method that involves measuring the distance of an object from two fixed lines at right angles to each other.
Triangulation method – a sketching method that requires measuring the distance of an object along a straight line from two widely separated fixed reference points.
Baseline method– a sketching method that makes measurements along from a single reference line, called a baseline, which can be established by using a length of string, chalk line, or some other convenient means.
Compass point method– a sketching method that requires a protractor or some method of measuring angles between two lines. One point is selected as the origin and a line extending from the origin becomes an axis from which the angles can be measured.
Cross projection method – a sketching method in which the ceiling appears to open up like a lid of a hinged box, with the four walls opening outward. Measurements are then indicated from a point on the floor to the wall.

CRIME SCENE SEARCH
A crime scene search could only be started after it has been photograph and sketched to systematically look for physical evidence that may prove useful in establishing that a crime has been committed and to determine what method of operation the perpetrator may have used.

METHODS OF SEARCH
Strip or Line Search Method – the searchers will proceed at the same pace along the path parallel to one side of the rectangle.
Double Strip or Grid Method – is a combination of the strip search and is useful for large crime scene.
Spiral or Circular Method – the searchers will follow each other in the path of a spiral, beginning in the outside and spiraling towards the center or vice versa in a clockwise or counter clock-wise direction.
Quadrant of Zone Method – the area to be searched is divided into four quadrants and each searcher is assigned to one quadrant.
Wheel, Radial or Spoke Method – is applicable for area which is considered to be approximately circular or oval. The area is then divided into six quadrants in a pie-like fashion.

Notes Taking
Note taking must be a constant activity throughout the processing of the crime scene.Notes must include:
Detailed written description of the Crime Scene with locations of recovered physical evidence;
The time when the physical evidence was discovered;
The person who discovered and collected the physical evidence;
The time when evidence was packaged and marked; and
The disposition of the item when it was collected.

F. Collection of Physical Evidence
The competence to recognize and properly collect physical evidence is critical to both solving and prosecuting crimes.
The team leader is always informed of significant evidence located.  The evidence collectors shall put his initial, location and date of collection on the item and turn it over to the evidence custodian for documentation and safekeeping.

PHYSICAL EVIDENCE – these are the articles and materials which are found in connection with the investigation and which aid in establishing the identity of the perpetrator or the circumstances under which the crime was committed or which, in general assist in the prosecution of criminal. It embraces any object, living or inanimate, solid, liquid, or gas state.

What are the procedures needed for the care of physical evidence?
In order to introduce physical evidence in court, three important factors must be considered:
The article must be properly identified
Chain of custody must be proved
The evidence must be material and relevant

CHAIN OF CUSTODY
It is the number of persons who handled and possessed the pieces of evidence the moment they were collected, marked and tagged, up to the time of the final disposition of the case.

G. Conduct of Final Survey
The team leader makes a final review on the crime scene to determine whether or not the processing has been completed.

H. Release of the Crime Scene
The release of the crime scene is done if the investigator is satisfied that all pieces of evidence have been recovered. Thus, the investigator must evaluate the items recovered from the results of the interrogations of the suspect/s and the interview of the witnesses.  He must bear in mind that upon the formal release of the crime scene to the proper authority, the warrant is already required for his re-entry to the crime scene.

Dura Lex Sed Lex

This blog are for criminology students who aspire to become a future criminologist . This blog contains review materials. For futher suggestions my comment box is always open to any complaint, violent reactions or any suggestions for the enhancement of this blog. Thank you !