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This unique text has been written as a practical reference for detectives, crime scene investigators, and prosecutors on how to recognize a staged scene and how this offender behavior could be used as evidence in subsequent trials. The book is designed to help those actively engaged in conducting criminal investigations identify the red flags or those common findings at a crime scene that point to the scene being staged or altered and thereby assist the investigative process. The text is not only research based but also includes the authorsf 30-year experience and personal observations in conducting hundreds of different crime scene investigations ranging from homicide and death, burglary and other property crimes, to rape and other sexual crimes. This experience also includes interviewing hundreds of victims and suspects, and conducting investigations from initiation of cases through prosecution. The authors have located hundreds of examples of staging and have included many of them as case studies throughout the text. Many of the case studies presented are based on the authorsf personal involvement in them. In addition to defining and categorizing the various aspects of staging, the reader is also introduced to new terminology describing the different elements of staging based on offender motive and the dynamics of the events. Other major discussions include primary and secondary staging as well as the two subcategories of primary staging: premeditated and ad hoc staging. Staging by individuals other than the offender and victim, described as tertiary/incidental scene alterations, are included as are several chapters on a variety of crimes and how to identify the red flags relevant to them. A final chapter is written especially for prosecutors and offers suggestions and references on how the concept of staging might be introduced in court. A very thorough Appendix provides reviews of many appellant court decisions from across the U.S. and Canada specifically addressing issues of staging.

The first pieces of evidence viewed by jurors are oftentimes the photographs recorded by the crime scene investigator. Professional and accurate photographic documentation is critical for creating lasting first impressions in the minds of a jury. Solving a range of photographic dilemmas and challenges, Advanced Crime Scene Photography assists investigators in creating photographic evidence that is engaging, interesting, and informative, giving them greater credibility when testifying in court. Beginning with a review of basic photography principles, the book seamlessly integrates this information with corresponding applications in crime scene photography. Mindful of cost-saving concerns in most law enforcement agencies, it provides useful tips on creating compelling photographic presentations on a limited budget using everyday items in lieu of expensive equipment. It demonstrates how to photograph images used in identification, including fingerprint, footwear, and tirewear impressions; tool and bite marks; and bloodstain patterns. It also explores specialized topics such as nighttime and low-light photography, flash photography, painting with light techniques, the photography of Luminol reactions, laser trajectories, and ultraviolet and infrared light photography. Thinking outside of the box, analyzing photographic challenges, and determining the best way to record a particular composition are all keys to the successful capture of photographic images that will leave a lasting impression with the viewer. Advanced Crime Scene Photography helps photographers work through difficult compositions and capture truly outstanding pieces of photographic evidence.