INVESTIGATIVE SUGGESTIONS

by

Stephen Weidner

&

Robert Van Breckley

AAPI

First and foremost should always be safety and security. While most procedures will depend largely on individual sites, we can set up basic procedures that will fit most circumstances. Preferably a team of four (hopefully no less than three and no more than five) persons will conduct the S&S (safety & security) sweep. To accomplish this they will only need the most basic of equipment, a set of two way radios, flashlights, first aid kit, and a camera. The team should consist of at least one person certified in CPR and First Aid, ALL team members should be physically fit, at least one individual knowledgeable in construction and demolition (since many of the sites are going to be abandoned buildings), and one “medium” if available.

The priority of a "Preliminary" is to locate, label, and photograph anything that may pose a physical threat to the investigative team (loose floor boards, missing stairs, unsafe staircases, unsafe floors, broken glass, etc.). Also, they need to make note of ALL entrances and exits from the site, everything in the parameter of the site including safe spots (neighbors, stores, etc,) and danger spots (open wells, steep slopes, etc.), and, essentially, EVERYTHING that may either be a threat or of use! It is important that a 'Home Base' be determined at this time for emergencies and head counts at the end of the investigation. It is also advisable to determine which equipment will be needed for this investigation.

A.) ALL team members are provided a radio and flashlight.

B.) One member, referred to as “team lead” from now on, is assigned the camera.

C.) One member, referred to as “medic” from now on, is assigned the first aid kit (preferably, obviously, the CPR expert).

Once the preliminary in completed, two separate groups (team “Alpha” and team “Beta”) should be assigned to the location. Team “Alpha” (consisting of the team lead, researcher, security, tools manager and medium) will enter the site first from the front. Team “Beta” (consisting of the team lead, researcher, security, tools manager and medium) will start their investigation of the site from the opposite end. Once The teams meet in the middle, it is okay to break for a few minutes. DO NOT DISCUSS ANY FINDINGS TO ANY OTHER TEAM during this time. The findings will match at the end of the investigation. Continue through the investigation to the end and meet up at the "Home Base" to finish up field paperwork. At this point the investigation is finished at the location site and will continue at the Investigation Headquarters for evidence gathering and discussion.

Now the fun part begins with comparison of data and examinations of photos and recordings. DO NOT disregard any evidence, recordings, or findings. Keep everything. Create a back up report or computer disk of all information and reports.

As the investigation Data is reviewed again and again, it is important to do a follow up if applicable. Once all data is completed and a report is designed and executed, send a complimentary report to all parties involved at the location. They will appreciate any and all courtesies.