Preservation of Crime Scene: An Analysis of Guidelines, Legal Framework and Judicial Interpretation

Abstract

The preservation of crime scene is essential for guaranteeing justice in legal processes. The criminal courts in every country require that the accusations against the accused be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Criminal justice aids in the analysis and restoration of events that transpired at the crime scene. While the police officers did not see those happenings, some components assist forensic experts and crime scene investigators in connecting the fragmented bits of testimony and reconstructing a narrative. In the absence of adequate protections and protocols, vital evidence may deteriorate, be manipulated, or go lost, resulting in mistakes of justice. This essay analyzes the regulatory structures regulating the safekeeping of evidence related to crime in Pakistan, juxtaposes them with international and regional norms, critically assesses their efficacy, and scrutinizes their legal application. It culminates with suggestions for improvements intended to improve the effectiveness of the judicial system. The paper posits that crime scene examination requires meticulous operation, precise recording, and systematic evidence collecting. In Pakistan, local law enforcement officers lack enough training and essential resources for the methodical processing of crime scenes, including appropriate identification and collecting of evidence. When collecting testimony, certain measures must be followed and observed when handling dangerous and delicate materials.