At the scene of any crime, accident or other
police incident, the ranking officer present shall assume command
and direction of police personnel to assure the most orderly and efficient
accomplishment of the police task. When two or more officers of the
same rank are present and one of these is assigned to the investigative
detail that will follow up the investigation, that ranking officer
will be in charge. This provision coordinates the efforts of the several
subordinate members who may be assigned to the incident: therefore,
it is incumbent upon the ranking officer assuming such control to
become acquainted with the facts and ensure that appropriate action
is being taken or is initiated.
The first member to arrive at the scene of a
crime or other police incident is responsible for the following actions
as they may apply to the situation:
A. Summoning medical assistance and administering first
aid as required to prevent further injury or loss of life.
D. Conducting a preliminary investigation.
The members officially assigned to perform the preliminary or other investigation of an alleged crime or other incidents are responsible for the duties of §
47-89 and the completion of the preliminary or other investigation as directed. This shall include securing statements and other information which will aid in the successful completion of the investigation, the locating, collecting and preserving of physical evidence and the identifying, locating and apprehending of the offender.
Except when impractical or where the identify
is obvious, officers shall identify themselves by displaying the official
badge or identification card before taking police action.
Unauthorized persons, including members of the
press, shall be excluded from crime scenes. Information shall be given
to the press by the Chief of Police or members designated by him.