Importance of crime scene investigation

• Forensic necroscopy begins at the crime scene.
• Knowledge of the scene may be crucial to interpreting findings at necroscopy and determining the cause of death, making it preferred for forensic veterinarian or pathologist to examine scene for every case in which they assist.
• Although reviewing crime scene photographs and law enforcement reports is beneficial, information that can be gleared from examining the scene in person is irreplaceable..
• Examining the body at the scene is analogous to taking a medical history, thereby requiring practice and skills.
• Many law enforcement officers does not possess specialized training required to investigate an animal abuse scene, making it impossible for information to be noted. Or simply overlooked. Unfortunately, due to lack of personnel or funding, forensic pathologists will often examine the scenes of death that appear to be complicated or unusual.
• Not examining body at death scene has been regarded as one of the classical mistakes in forensic pathology.
• If forensic pathologist or veterinarian is not present on scene, they should work closely with those who were ideally another veterinarian, to ensure that they are provided with all pertinent information regarding the case.
• Provided information should focus particularly on how, when or where the body was found, by whom is under what circumstances.