What does a secondary survey in a crime scene investigation aim to accomplish?

The primary focus of a secondary survey in a crime scene investigation is to ensure all evidence has been collected. During this phase, investigators conduct a thorough and systematic examination of the crime scene to identify any remaining evidence that may have been overlooked during the initial survey. This includes revisiting areas where evidence may be difficult to detect or might require special techniques for collection, such as trace evidence, latent prints, or biological materials.

The secondary survey also involves a detailed examination of the scene's context and the relationships between items, ensuring that investigators document everything comprehensively. This systematic approach helps to preserve the integrity of the evidence and increases the chances of uncovering critical information that could be pivotal for solving the case. Having a complete collection of evidence is foundational for subsequent analysis and legal proceedings, making the secondary survey a crucial step in the investigative process.