QuestionsQuestions (PNP STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE NO. ODIDM 2011-03)
It aims to define and delineate the functions/responsibilities of the First Responder (FR), Investigator-on-Case (IOC), and SOCO Team; establish a harmonized sequence of CSI activities with clear accountabilities; set required CSI standard forms; minimize common investigative mistakes like contamination/destruction of evidence and overlooking witnesses; enhance safety and the admissibility of evidence in court; and address procedural weaknesses identified in case reviews.
CSI commences upon the arrival of the PNP First Responders and concludes with the lifting of the security cordon and release of the crime scene by the IOC.
The Investigator-on-Case (IOC)/Duty Investigator has the primary responsibility and assumes full control and supervision over the crime scene during the conduct of CSI.
The FR must conduct a preliminary evaluation of the scope of the incident, required emergency services, scene safety concerns, life-saving measures, and establish security/control. The FR must save/preserve life through first aid and evacuation, cordon the area to prevent unauthorized entry, and take dying declaration of severely injured persons when applicable.
If a suspect is present in the area, the FR shall arrest, detain, and remove the suspect from the area.
The FR must turn over the crime scene to the IOC after briefing the investigator of the situation. The FR must prepare and submit CSI Form a1a (First Responder’s Report) and be prepared to assist the IOC.
The IOC must request a briefing from the FR, make a quick assessment, assume full responsibility over the crime scene, conduct a thorough assessment/inquiry, and if necessary conduct crime scene search (outside the incident area) using the methods allowed by the SOP.
If the IOC determines that the SOCO Team is required, he reports to his COP and requests SOCO. The Police Station Operation Center requests through the Provincial/City Operations Center, which facilitates the request.
The SOCO Team shall not enter unless the IOC makes an official written request where the IOC assures SOCO of his presence and support.
They conduct narrative description of the crime scene, photography, videography, crime scene search, crime scene sketch and location sketch, physical evidence recording and collection, and other procedures necessary.
After termination, the SOCO Team leader briefs the IOC on initial results and conducts a final crime scene survey together with the IOC. The SOCO Team leader also accomplishes and furnishes the IOC copies of the CSI Form a4a (SOCO Report Forms 1-4) before leaving the crime scene.
The IOC decides on lifting the security cordon and releasing the crime scene after consultation with the SOCO Team Leader. The IOC ensures all potential evidence collected by SOCO is completed.
Any re-entry after the crime scene has been released to the owner requires a Search Warrant issued by the Court.
The IOC accomplishes CSI Form a6a (IOC/Investigator’s CSI Form) at the OSCP prior to lifting of the security cordon.
The IOC or COP accomplishes CSI Form a5a (Release of Crime Scene Form) and it must be witnessed by the SOCO Team Leader and confirmed by the owner or representative of local authority.
The IOC must ensure the CSI report becomes the first entry in the Case Folder. The IOC must submit the Investigator’s Report with required attachments to the COP within two (2) working days from the date of incidence. Also, a copy of SOCO Reports (Forms 1-4) must be provided to the IOC within 24 hours after release of the crime scene.
Any violation is dealt with administratively. Unit Commanders are investigated under command responsibility. If evidence further warrants, criminal complaints may be filed against those who committed acts or omissions violating the Revised Penal Code or special laws.