Frequently Asked Questions - Crime Scene Reconstruction

Crime scene analysis or crime scene reconstruction is the process of evaluating all of the physical evidence and scene context in an attempt to establish specific actions that occurred during the incident in question. The analyst then attempts to order or sequence these actions.

The concept of crime scene analysis has existed as long as the concept of professional criminal investigations. Various authors have discussed this process in criminal investigative texts over the last one hundred years. A specific theory for crime scene analysis was articulated by Edward Oscar Heinrich in the 1930’s. This theory states simply that “Nothing Just Happens”.

The history of crime scene analysis has recurring themes that set forth a functional approach to the discipline. There are several methodologies; BGA employs the method known as Event Analysis. All of the various methodologies are supported by several basic principles, which include: Steno’s Law of Superposition, Steno’s Law of Lateral Continuity, the concept of Chronology (both absolute and relative) and Locard’s Principle of Exchange.

Crime scene analysis is not the same as behavioral analysis (profiling), however the latter employs crime scene analysis. Criminal profiling or behavioral analysis attempts to define aspects of the offender. In order to do this the analyst must evaluate the physical evidence and scene in an objective fashion. Thus appropriate crime scene analysis is a necessary input to behavioral analysis.

By defining specific objective actions that occurred during the incident and then sequencing them in whatever fashion is possible, the analyst sets an objective standard, which can be compared to any theory or statement offered about the incident. Investigative, prosecution and defense theories regarding what did or did not happen must functionally match up to the crime scene analysis. If they do not, then the theory must be re-evaluated and changed. Whenever testimonial evidence is offered, these statements can be refuted or corroborated using crime scene analysis.