How wide should the perimeter be set around a crime scene?

Setting the perimeter around a crime scene is a critical step in ensuring that all potential evidence is preserved and protected. The most effective approach is to establish a distance that is greater than what might be required to find expected evidence. This method accounts for the possibility that evidence may not be confined to the immediate area or the specific expectations of what might be present.

By creating a wider perimeter, investigators can accommodate various factors such as movement patterns of suspects, environmental conditions, and the potential for overlooked evidence. Evidence can sometimes be displaced or manipulated, so a broader perimeter allows for more thorough investigation and protects against contamination or loss of critical information.

The other options either suggest unnecessarily specific or minimal perimeter settings, which could lead to inadequate protection of evidence and hinder the investigation process. A well-defined, adequately sized perimeter plays a vital role in the overall effectiveness of crime scene management and evidence collection.