In a world profoundly influenced by popular media programs, the real-life duties and complexities involved in crime scene investigation are often misrepresented and misunderstood. An Introduction to Crime Scene Investigation serves to eliminate warped impressions and to clearly identify and accurately explain the crime scene investigative process, components, methods, and procedures. This comprehensive introductory text exposes readers to the day-to-day aspects of crime scene processing, and describes in detail the crime scene investigator responsibilities. The history related to crime scene investigation, theory, ethics, social impact, training, and educational issues are thoroughly explored as well. Features: Presents straightforward and scientifically supported procedures that explain how to accurately and efficiently document what has been left behind at the scene of a crime. Provides an in-depth look at the CSI world through photographs, illustrations, and short narrative segments that will guide the reader through investigations. Effectively covers a variety of investigations such as burglary, homicide, sex crimes, drug cases, underwater crime scenes, hazardous materials situations, and arson.