Crime Scene Day 2024
Last week, our Sheldon Sixth Form criminology students had their annual Crime Scene Day with training provided by Simon Smith of Zakon Training. We asked Magda in Year 13 to share her experience of the day.
On 12 of November, Year 13 criminology students came off timetable to work with ex-Police Detective Simon Smith of Zakon Training. The ‘Crime Scene to Courtroom’ day reflects the Unit 3 content for the controlled assessment that will be sat in December.
The morning started off with all of us getting into groups with people who we had not worked with before. We listened to a very intense 999 call and had to make key notes about the call, from a very distressed 18-year-old girl who found the body of her best friend! Using our knowledge, we had to establish which emergency services should arrive first and how they would access the crime scene. In pairs we role-played interviewing the witness who found the body and we analysed her report. Instantly, we had to interview all the potential suspects which were mentioned by the witness herself. Critically analysing and reading reports, later making notes on the suspects. Shortly after this Simon took us to a classroom where a replica of the crime scene was set up, to give the class an insight on what we were working with.
After break, we investigated all the evidence which was present at the crime scene. From blood traces, footprints, a smashed bottles and a crowbar, to the tiniest clasp that fell off from a necklace. Of course, this evidence had to be analysed, as evidence is the key to every investigation! We read through reports presented to us by Crime Scene Investigators and got every detail we needed. Our next group task was a series of fingerprints were presented to us from the suspects and as a group, we worked together to match which fingerprints from the crime scene matched the offender. Narrowing down our suspects, we finally found our main suspect, Dale. He has previously been known for his aggression and toxic behaviour, increasing our suspicions.
In the afternoon, we finally had the most exciting part of our day – we were in the courtroom! Everyone involved in the crime scene day took part playing the role of different people who are typically involved in a court case. There were judges, jurors, witnesses, the defendant and their legal team, as well as the prosecution team. I was the Detective Sargent, one of they key witnesses, meaning I had to stand in court, getting questioned by the prosecution and defence. As a team, we in fact did find Dale guilty of his crime, showing that our hard work paid off. It was truly an amazing day full of curiosity, challenges, laughter and fun.
Overall, our Crime Scene Day opened many opportunities for us. Simon spent a school day, explaining the processes from the crime scene to the court room. Furthermore, Simon spoke to about various potential career paths which deeply inspired many students, including myself. This was an incredible opportunity, and I recommend this to any criminology students who want a great day!
