What defines the outer boundary of a crime scene when excluding public/media?

The outer boundary of a crime scene, specifically when excluding the public and media, is defined as the outer perimeter. This represents the area that encompasses the entirety of the crime scene and helps ensure that individuals not involved in the investigation do not enter the area, maintaining the integrity of the evidence and the investigative process.

The outer perimeter is crucial for establishing a controlled environment where law enforcement can conduct their work without interference. It serves to protect both the evidence from contamination and the safety of the public, thereby allowing investigators to perform thorough examinations and collect evidence effectively.

Factors like establishing a secure zone or safe zone may be part of crime scene protocols, but they refer to different concepts within crime scene management. The inner perimeter, on the other hand, typically refers to the specific area where the actual evidence or the crime scene is contained and does not encompass the broader area necessary for public management. Therefore, the clear definition of the outer perimeter is essential for effective crime scene management.