What should be the first action taken at a crime scene?

The first action that should be taken at a crime scene is to secure the scene. This is vital to ensure that the area remains uncontaminated and that evidence is preserved. By securing the scene, law enforcement can control access, prevent tampering, and protect both physical and potential digital evidence. This step establishes a perimeter and limits entry to authorized personnel, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the investigation.

Once the scene is secured, investigators can proceed with other important tasks such as documenting the crime, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence. However, without the initial step of securing the scene, valuable evidence could be lost, altered, or compromised, which could undermine the entire investigation. This order of operations is essential to upholding legal standards and ensuring the case holds up in court.