When entering a scene, what should be considered regarding potential evidence?

The preservation and protection of evidence at a crime scene are critical aspects of any investigation. Choosing to ensure that evidence is not contaminated emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of the crime scene. Contamination can happen through many means, such as the introduction of additional substances, removal of items, or even inadvertent alterations during the investigation.

By prioritizing the preservation of evidence, investigators safeguard the potential for accurate conclusions to be drawn from the crime scene. This is essential for corroborating facts during the investigation process and for use in legal proceedings. Proper protocols involving securing the scene, using appropriate barriers, and ensuring that only trained personnel handle the evidence contribute to its admissibility in court.

The other options do not align with the best practices for crime scene management. Ignoring seemingly insignificant evidence could lead to missing critical links in a case. Instead, all evidence, regardless of initial impressions, should be thoroughly documented and collected. Viewing evidence as secondary to suspect apprehension undermines the evidentiary process and could compromise the investigation's integrity. Additionally, removing evidence in a chaotic scene could lead to vital information being lost, making it essential to secure the area for evidence collection before addressing chaos.