What is referred to as the initial investigation conducted by the first officer at a crime scene?

The term used for the initial investigation conducted by the first officer at a crime scene is the preliminary investigation. This stage is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire investigation process. During the preliminary investigation, the responding officer assesses the situation, secures the scene to prevent contamination of evidence, and gathers essential information such as statements from witnesses, descriptions of suspects, and an overall assessment of the crime.

This phase focuses on identifying immediate threats, ensuring public safety, and establishing the basic facts of the incident, which helps determine the appropriate resources and actions needed for further investigation. The collected data in this initial stage will guide subsequent investigative efforts, making it a key component of effective law enforcement response.

In contrast, options like secondary investigations, comprehensive investigations, and follow-up investigations occur later in the investigative process, where more detailed analysis and exploration of leads take place, building upon the foundation laid during the preliminary investigation.