What should an officer prioritize upon arriving at a crime scene?

Upon arriving at a crime scene, the officer should prioritize securing the scene. This is crucial for several reasons. Securing the scene helps to preserve the integrity of any evidence that may be present, prevents contamination or interference from bystanders, and ensures the safety of all individuals at the location, including the officer. By establishing a perimeter and controlling access to the scene, the officer can better manage the flow of information and preserve the evidence necessary for an investigation.

Once the scene is secured, the officer can proceed to other important tasks, such as gathering evidence and taking witness statements. However, these actions rely on a controlled environment to ensure that the information gathered is accurate and that evidence remains uncontaminated. Therefore, securing the scene is a fundamental first step in effective crime scene management.