Join The Exciting World of Crime Scene Investigation?

Answer 1

The sensational career of Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) has been popularized by the famous crime solving drama “CSI”. The conclusion of the show always ends with the incredibly intuitive crime scene investigator catching the “psycho killer” seemingly overnight. However in real life, there is a lot of work and time involved in Crime Scene Investigations. Therefore, for individuals who are enthusiastic, driven, and motivated, Crime Scene Investigations is a field with endless potential and career growth.

What is Crime Scene Investigations?

Crime Scene Investigation is the process of preserving, photographing, documenting, and collecting pertinent evidence from the crime scene. The evidence is then analyzed at the lab by a Forensic Scientist, who then creates detailed reports of all findings. Although some Crime Scene Investigators work at the crime scenes only, all CSI agents are encourage to have some specialized knowledge in the crime lab as a Forensic Scientist. Due to the fact that both Crime Scene Investigation and Forensic Science, are so closely related, they often overlap in responsibilities. However, it is mandatory for all Crime Scene Investigators to perform the following duties while at the crime scene:.

Initial Walk-Through

The Crime Scene Investigator arrives immediately at the site, and performs a detailed visual inspection. While being careful in not contaminating any evidence, notes are taken in regards to the crime scene. Based on the initial visual inspection, a tentative theory is generated.

Documentation of Evidence:

The undisturbed evidence and crime scene is photographed and video recorded. The Crime Scene Investigator will also sketch drawings of the crime scene.

Collection of Evidence

All evidence is then collected, logged, and adequately sealed. At this point, the Crime Scene Investigator may or may not be responsible for performing Forensic Science duties, by analyzing all evidence at the crime lab.

Careers and Salaries

The are a variety of careers that are available for an ambitious individual who is interested in Crime Scene Investigation. Such careers include:

Police Evidence Technician

Crime Scene Technician

Latent Print Technician

Forensic Photographer

Criminalist

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this average annual salary for Crime Scene Investigations is between $32,420 to $84,260.

What Type Of Required Training Does A Crime Scene Investigator Need?

Most employers would prefer that potential candidates have 2 years of specialized training, or a Associate Degree in this specialized field. Although some jobs require that the Crime Scene Investigators obtain higher education (bachelors or masters degree), it is not required for many entry positions.