Crime scene investigators (CSIs) put on gloves, grab their kits, and head to crime scenes to uncover the truth. But what happens when crime scene safety becomes a concern? While CSI work is often portrayed as meticulous and methodical, the reality is that investigators face serious risks—hostile suspects, unpredictable environments, and working alone in unsecured areas. How can CSIs stay safe in the field?
Featuring Guest Expert: Letty Ramirez
Forensic Supervisor Letty Ramirez has spent over 14 years in the field, managing high-risk crime scenes and training forensic professionals. In one particularly dangerous moment, she found herself at a scene when an armed suspect returned unexpectedly. This experience—and many others like it—has shaped her approach to forensic safety. Letty joined us on the Forensics Unfiltered podcast to discuss these challenges and share actionable safety strategies that every forensic professional should know.
Letty’s presentation, “How to Be a Leader That People Actually Want to Follow”, was also a highlight of our 2023 Forensic Supervisor Success Summit where she shares her expert strategies for leadership in forensic units.
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The Reality of Crime Scene Safety & Emergency Preparedness
Many crime scene investigators across the U.S. process crime scenes alone. While some scenes are deemed “nonviolent,” this does not guarantee safety—suspects may return, or other individuals with ill intent may enter the scene. This reality underscores the importance of proper safety protocols.
Forensic professionals—especially civilian CSIs—should have access to protective gear. While some departments issue bulletproof vests, others may allow investigators to carry defensive tools such as pepper spray or personal alarms. If your agency does not provide these, advocating for additional safety measures is worthwhile.
At a minimum, every forensic professional should always carry their radio. Leaving it in the vehicle does no good in an emergency. Supervisors should enforce the habit of keeping radios on hand and ensure that all forensic personnel are well-trained in emergency communication protocols.
Case Example: Letty Ramirez’s Close Call
During our interview, Letty Ramirez shared a chilling experience that underscores the dangers forensic professionals face. She was processing a scene, confident that the area had been secured. However, an armed suspect returned unexpectedly, catching her off guard. Fortunately, a responding officer arrived just in time, preventing what could have been a deadly encounter. Letty’s story serves as a stark reminder that forensic supervisors must prioritize crime scene safety—ensuring that no forensic professional is left vulnerable in potentially hazardous situations.
Encounters with Hostile Individuals & De-escalation Techniques
Forensic professionals frequently encounter individuals who are emotionally charged or hostile. Training in de-escalation techniques can help prevent volatile situations from escalating into physical confrontations. Supervisors should work with law enforcement partners to ensure that crime scene personnel receive basic training in:
- Recognizing signs of agitation or potential aggression.
- Using verbal techniques to calm tense situations.
- Maintaining safe distances and exit strategies when working alone.
Unexpected Threats in Crime Scene Safety
1. Working Alone at Crime Scenes
One of the biggest risks for CSIs is working solo. Civilian CSIs, in particular, may not always be equipped with defensive tools such as firearms, bulletproof vests, or pepper spray, leaving them vulnerable to potential threats. Even for sworn CSIs who carry weapons, situational awareness is compromised when focusing on forensic tasks like photography, fingerprint collection, or evidence documentation.
2. Limited Situational Awareness
Processing a crime scene requires intense focus. Whether looking through a camera lens or analyzing evidence up close, CSIs often have their attention locked onto specific tasks, reducing their ability to scan for threats in their surroundings. This makes them easy targets for anyone with ill intent who may approach unnoticed.
3. The Risk of Returning Suspects
Suspects sometimes return to the crime scene to retrieve evidence, confront law enforcement, or even assess how much investigators know. Additionally, individuals uninvolved in the crime—such as curious bystanders, gang members, or intoxicated persons—may enter the scene, creating unpredictable risks.
Essential Crime Scene Safety Measures for CSIs
Always Have Backup on Scene
Even if responding to a scene considered low-risk, no CSI should work alone. Having a law enforcement officer or another investigator present provides an additional layer of security. Even for routine investigations, an extra set of eyes can help monitor surroundings while the CSI focuses on processing evidence.
Improve Situational Awareness
- Never assume a crime scene is secure.
- Take frequent breaks from detailed forensic tasks to scan the environment.
- Utilize mirrors or cameras to monitor surroundings without turning your back completely.
- Position yourself strategically so that exits remain visible and accessible. Have a clear escape route in mind at all times.
Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Defensive Tools
Forensic professionals—especially civilian CSIs—should have access to protective gear. While some departments issue bulletproof vests, others may allow investigators to carry defensive tools such as pepper spray or personal alarms. If your agency does not provide these, advocating for additional safety measures is worthwhile.
At the bare minimum, always carry your radio on your person. Leaving it in the car won’t help in an emergency when every second counts.
Train for Emergency Scenarios
Regular safety training, including defensive tactics, de-escalation techniques, and emergency exit strategies, is vital. CSIs should know how to react if a suspect returns, how to call for backup efficiently, and how to recognize early warning signs of potential danger.
Final Thoughts: Prioritizing Crime Scene Safety in Every Investigation
Crime scene investigations involve more than just collecting evidence—they require a commitment to crime scene safety at every stage. Whether working a high-profile case or a routine nonviolent scene, staying aware of the risks and taking necessary precautions can make all the difference. By implementing proactive safety measures, CSIs can continue their vital work while ensuring their own well-being.
Unlimited Access to Leadership Training for Forensic Supervisors
If you want to learn from Letty Ramirez and other forensic leadership experts, get access to the 2023 Forensic Supervisor Success Summit Replay.
With the All-Access Pass, you’ll gain immediate access to Letty’s presentation, “How to Be a Leader That People Actually Want to Follow,” along with 27 other expert-led sessions covering forensic supervision, leadership strategies, and unit efficiency. Don’t miss out—secure your access today!
👉 Purchase the full replay here
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership skills, improve forensic unit operations, and gain insights from top forensic professionals!
Keep Learning: More Insights from Forensic Leadership Experts
If you’re eager to continue exploring forensic leadership, check out these podcast episodes featuring summit speakers:
- Knowing When It’s Time to Walk Away with Alice White from Evolve Forensics
- The Importance of Quality Documentation from a Forensic Consultant Perspective with John Black from Black & White Forensics
- How Kat Pope Became Alcohol-Free and Developed a Better Way to Handle Work-Related Stress with Kat Pope from Forensics Found
