What is the primary role of a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI)?

The primary role of a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is to collect, preserve, and analyze physical evidence. This task is critical in the forensic process as it involves systematically gathering evidence from crime scenes, ensuring that it is not contaminated or compromised, and recording it meticulously for future analysis. CSIs utilize various methods, tools, and techniques to document the crime scene, including photography, sketches, and notes, which are essential for both investigation and potential court proceedings.

After evidence is collected, CSIs often perform preliminary analyses to determine its significance or potential links to suspects or other cases. This could include fingerprint analysis, trace evidence examination, or chemical testing. The integrity and meticulous handling of physical evidence by CSIs are vital because many cases hinge on the quality of this evidence when presented in court.

While other roles mentioned, such as interrogating suspects, making arrests, or performing autopsies, are also essential to the criminal justice process, they are performed by different professionals such as detectives, police officers, or forensic pathologists. The specific focus of a CSI is centered entirely on the scientific aspects of crime scene investigation, which is foundational to building a case and securing a successful prosecution.