Crime Scene Investigations (CSI)
The Crime Scene Investigations Section is a vital component of the Criminalistics Bureau, consisting of the Crime Scene Detail and Photographic Detail. We provide professional crime scene investigation, scientific analysis, and evidence preservation in support of both the community and the department.
Crime Scene Detail
Staffed by a Director, Manager, 9 Supervisors, 56 Crime Scene Analysts, and support personnel, the Crime Scene Detail is a civilian unit dedicated to serving the greater Clark County area, covering approximately 8,091 square miles and a population of more than 2 million residents. Our team operates 24/7, ensuring a coordinated response to crime scenes across the county and occasionally assisting other agencies upon request.
The investigation of crime and the prosecution of offenders requires information be obtained through the application of scientific knowledge and methods known as crime scene analysis.
Crime scene analysis is at the core of our work, involving meticulous documentation through notes, reports, photography, diagrams, and the recovery of latent fingerprints, as well as the collection and preservation of physical evidence. We utilize state-of-the-art equipment to detect and preserve various forms of evidence, supporting investigations into a wide range of complex crimes, including abuse/neglect, burglary, homicide, narcotics, and more.
The crime scene analysts investigate various complex crime scenes, including but not limited to:
- Abuse/Neglect of Children or Elderly
- Battery
- Burglary
- Fraud
- Grand Larceny
- Fatal Vehicle Accidents
- Homicide
- Narcotics
- Officer Involved Shootings
- Recovered Stolen Vehicles
- Robbery
- Sexual Assault
- Suspicious Deaths
- Shooting Into Occupied Structure
- Vandalism
Contrary to popular portrayals, the role of a Crime Scene Analyst demands long hours and rigorous attention to detail. Our work is essential to criminal investigations, with each member regularly providing unbiased scientific testimony in court based on their examination of crime scenes. We take pride in our commitment to serving justice and ensuring the integrity of the investigative process.
CSI Response Standards
Selection of Methods
The LVMPD Crime Scene Investigations Section chooses the most suitable method(s) of processing based on factors such as the type of crime scene, evidence, and provided information.
Deviations from Requests
Following department policy, the ranking Crime Scene Analyst at the scene is tasked with overseeing the processing of the crime scene, ensuring an independent, scientifically-grounded investigation. Before starting the processing, the ranking Officer/Detective (if present) and the ranking Crime Scene Analyst will collaborate to determine the necessary actions to take.
Departure from Documented Procedures
Requests for crime scene analysis from the CSI Section will follow procedures outlined in the Crime Scene Investigations Technical Manual. Any deviations from these procedures will require approval from the Crime Scene Investigations Director or a Crime Scene Analyst Supervisor, with documentation in the case file.
Release of Confidential Information
Court Order or Subpoena Duces Tecum
When the CSI section is compelled by Court Order or Subpoena Duces Tecum to disclose confidential information (as determined by LVMPD Office of General Counsel), the requested documents will be released to the appropriate parties as outlined in the Nevada Revised Statutes.
Accreditation Activities
When the CSI section needs to provide confidential information to the accrediting body for accreditation purposes, we will furnish the necessary documents according to the accrediting body's specifications.