What is the main purpose of a rough sketch at a crime scene?

The main purpose of a rough sketch at a crime scene is to provide an overview of the crime scene and its contents. A rough sketch serves as a fundamental tool for investigators to document the layout and significant features of the scene, including the locations of evidence, the positions of any victims or suspects, and the relationship between objects within the scene.

By capturing these details quickly and efficiently, a rough sketch helps to establish a visual record that can assist in further investigations, allow for a clearer understanding of the crime scene, and enhance the explanation of the findings to others, such as during court proceedings. Additionally, it acts as an invaluable reference for later phases of the investigation and for reports that may be created afterward.

The focus on overview rather than detailed narrative or artistic representation is key to understanding the rough sketch's function; it emphasizes clarity and accuracy in documenting what was observed at the scene rather than merely presenting a detailed account in words or artistic form.