What should an officer avoid doing inside the perimeter of a crime scene?

An officer should avoid using facilities, eating or drinking, and smoking inside the perimeter of a crime scene because these actions can compromise the integrity of the scene. Once a crime scene is established, it is crucial to maintain it as a controlled environment to prevent the introduction of substances or evidence that could alter the investigation.

Using facilities can leave behind potential evidence that may be relevant to the case, while eating or drinking could introduce foreign substances or compromise biological evidence. Smoking can also affect the crime scene by introducing tobacco residues or altering odors that investigators might need to assess. Therefore, maintaining a clean and undisturbed environment is essential for preserving evidence and ensuring a thorough investigation. By avoiding these actions, officers help to uphold the integrity of the scene and support the effectiveness of the crime investigation process.