What is one risk associated with not properly securing a crime scene?

The potential loss or contamination of evidence is a significant risk associated with not properly securing a crime scene. When a crime scene is not secured, unauthorized individuals may enter the area, which can lead to evidence being altered, destroyed, or contaminated. Forensic evidence is often delicate, and even minor disturbances can compromise its integrity. Inadequate security can result in the introduction of foreign substances or the removal of critical items that could play a key role in an investigation, ultimately hindering law enforcement's ability to solve the case.

Maintaining proper physical boundaries around a crime scene ensures that trained professionals can collect and analyze evidence without interference from outside factors, thus preserving its original state. This is crucial for establishing a reliable chain of custody and can significantly impact the overall outcome of a criminal investigation.