What action should be taken if a suspect may have left evidence at a crime scene?

The correct action in the scenario where a suspect may have left evidence at a crime scene is to perform a protective sweep. This step is critical for ensuring the safety of law enforcement officers and preserving the crime scene. A protective sweep involves checking the immediate area for any potential threats or individuals who may pose a danger, such as accomplices or the suspect themselves, before collecting evidence.

This approach prioritizes the safety of officers and the integrity of the scene. Once the area has been secured and any potential threats have been mitigated, officers can then proceed with collecting and securing any evidence that may have been left behind. Maintaining a safe environment is essential to prevent further disturbances that could compromise the integrity of the evidence or lead to harm.

In contrast, immediate evidence collection may overlook crucial safety protocols and could jeopardize the entire investigation. Documenting surroundings is valuable but would typically follow the initial sweep and securing of the area to ensure that safety and evidence preservation are prioritized. Ensuring witnesses are available is also important but does not take precedence in the immediate action needed to secure a crime scene and ensure law enforcement safety.