In the field, what types of calls are CSAs typically expected to handle?

Crime Scene Analysts (CSAs) are specifically appointed to handle evidence collection, documentation, and analysis during incidents where physical evidence plays a critical role. Simple property crime calls often involve straightforward scenarios, such as burglaries or thefts, where the focus is on gathering physical evidence to support investigations. In these cases, CSAs can efficiently apply their expertise in processing scenes, collecting evidence like fingerprints or forensic samples, and ensuring that the crime scene is meticulously documented for future analysis.

Major crime investigations, emergency rescue operations, and high-profile criminal cases often require a broader array of resources and personnel, including detectives and specialized units. While CSAs can be involved in these complex investigations, their primary function is usually more centered on property crimes where the evidence and scene are manageable for analysis without the additional complexities that come with larger scale or emergent situations. Thus, simple property crime calls align more directly with the typical responsibilities and scope of work expected from CSAs in the field.