The mock crime scene was organized by Cannon Falls Assistant Police Chief, Rich Wisniewski for a program sponsored by Triad, local citizens interested in learning about local law enforcement.
The popularity of television programs like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation shows the interest of the public in the investigative techniques used by modern law enforcement. Of course on TV it's all done within a 60 minute time period! The downside to this perception is that “real life” police may have to work under other conditions.
Cannon Falls Police Officers Scott Mattingly and David Timm along with Goodhue County Investigator Glen Barringer explained the process and how it can be handled at last Tuesday’s meeting of Triad - Cannon Falls Area Law Enforcement Partnership at the Shepherd’s Center.
Although local law enforcement might not have some of the fancier equipment shown on TV, they have many methods to use. Timm and Mattingly walked through a mock crime scene they had set up in the craft room of the Stone House apartment complex to show their expertise.
The perimeter of the crime scene actually starts at the outside door and could include access and/or escape routes and a vehicle.
Timm handles the photography angle. He starts taking pictures as they enter the building and head for the room where the “crime” took place so anyone can follow it by looking at the pictures. Timm explained that he will “shoot the heck out of the scene!”
You make note of what is present, like whether the lights are on or off, are the windows open or closed, etc. and what might be missing that would be normally there.
You check if there is damage to the door as you enter. Look for evidence and put numbered markers by each one to more easily identify them later. They have small rulers to place in the photo for size definition. Some have adhesive on the back so you can stick them on a wall next to a bullet hole, etc.
Mattingly pointed out a knife with possible blood on it. This could mean someone might have been wounded. Timm gets pictures of it first and then it’s moved.
Mattingly also pointed out the empty bottles that may produce fingerprints. They pointed out that it is difficult to get good ones since they are usually smeared or just partial prints.
Also, there was a baggie with possible marijuana inside.
The meticulous investigation techniques continued as the officers also covered questions from the approximately 20 observers.
Triad, Cannon Falls Area Citizens and Law Enforcement Partnership meets the second Tuesday of the month at the Shepherd's Center. The public is welcome.
For more information contact Cannon Falls Assistant Police Chief, Rich Wisniewski at 263-2278 or Goodhue County Deputy, Thomas Wolner at tom.wolner@co.goodhue.mn.us.
