ABSTRACT
Chapter 6 discussed forensic archiving of a scene as a multiplex of processes encompassing more than simply taking photographs. This is true. Archiving is a complex endeavor that often begins with videography followed by photography and sketching. And while the title of this chapter is “The Paper Trail,” this is actually a misnomer because the archive can include numerous technologies including 3D imaging. In fact, archiving encompasses the entire work product of the crime scene unit including all media used to record the scene activity. Much of this information is in a paper format, hence the title, but in the not-toodistant future the archive will increasingly be electronic. Regardless of the format, it must be protected and archived in a case file. The following discussion considers those activities that protect the integrity of the investigation, each an integral aspect of the archiving process.
