What should an officer do before leaving an incident scene?

Before leaving an incident scene, it is crucial for an officer to brief the arriving detective. This action ensures that the detective is fully aware of the circumstances surrounding the incident, the evidence collected, and any pertinent details that may aid in the investigation. A thorough briefing can provide continuity for the investigation and help the detective prioritize their actions at the scene.

This step is vital in maintaining the integrity of the investigation and ensuring that all necessary information is conveyed properly. By sharing insights about the situation, the responding detective is better equipped to follow up on leads or evidence, ensuring that nothing crucial is overlooked.

Collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and calling for backup are also important tasks; however, they typically take place during the initial response to the incident. Once the preliminary actions are completed, it becomes essential to transition the scene appropriately, and briefing the arriving detective supports that transition effectively.