MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

After responding to a robbery and finding a gun left behind, what is the first action you should take?

1. Don't touch it

2. Make the weapon safe

3. Collect the weapon

4. Secure the area

The correct answer is: Don't touch it

The first action you should take after finding a firearm at a crime scene is to ensure your own safety and the safety of others by not touching it. This is critical because firearms can pose immediate dangers. They may be loaded, or there could be other hazards associated with them, such as being in a volatile situation where a suspect might return. Additionally, by not touching the weapon, you preserve the integrity of the crime scene. Tampering with evidence, even unintentionally, can compromise an investigation. It is essential to ensure that the scene remains untouched until proper procedures can be followed, which includes securing the area and notifying appropriate personnel, such as evidence technicians or other law enforcement officers. This focus on preserving safety and evidence integrity is fundamental in law enforcement protocols, ensuring that the situation is handled correctly and the investigation can proceed without complications.