Macon County Law Enforcement Center (MCLC) Comprehensive State Practice Exam

Which of the following methods is used in crime scene searching techniques?

1. Wheel

2. Scatter

3. Combination

4. Parallel

The correct answer is: Wheel

The wheel method is a systematic approach commonly used in crime scene searching techniques, particularly useful in smaller or circular scenes. This method involves the searcher starting from a central point and moving outward in a circular pattern, resembling the spokes of a wheel. As the searcher progresses, they maintain a consistent distance from the center, ensuring that the entire area is covered effectively. This method allows for thorough inspection and can be particularly beneficial in identifying evidence or clues that need to be found in a comprehensive manner. While other searching techniques exist, each has its specific contexts and applications. The scatter method does not represent a structured searching technique, and the parallel method is best suited for larger areas where searchers can work in lines, covering horizontal sections without overlapping. The combination method integrates various approaches but does not exemplify a single defined technique. The wheel method stands out due to its clarity in structure and effectiveness in specific scenarios, making it a preferred choice for organized crime scene searches.