What type of evidence should be prioritized for collection at a crime scene?

Prioritizing the collection of small, easily collectible items at a crime scene is essential for several reasons. These items often include crucial pieces of evidence such as fingerprints, trace evidence, or small biological samples that can link a suspect to the scene or victim. Their size allows them to be collected quickly and efficiently, minimizing the risk of contamination or loss of critical evidence due to environmental factors or the activity of individuals present at the scene.

Moreover, small items often hold significant probative value and can be crucial in reconstructing events or corroborating witness statements. Collecting these items promptly helps ensure that they are preserved and can be analyzed later, which is vital for the investigation's success.

In contrast, while larger objects and items requiring tool assistance may also be important, they often take more time to document and collect, which can hinder the overall efficiency of evidence gathering at the scene. Additionally, items that can be easily overlooked might miss the initial assessment of significance, and while they can hold value, the immediate focus on easily collectible and small items can be more critical to establishing a strong foundation for the investigation.