How should security officers handle evidence at a crime scene?

Preserving the scene and avoiding touching anything is crucial for maintaining the integrity of evidence at a crime scene. Security officers are often the first responders to arrive, and their actions can significantly affect the investigation that follows. By ensuring that the scene remains undisturbed, they help to prevent contamination or alteration of physical evidence, which can be critical for law enforcement's analysis and case building later on.

In the context of crime scene management, this approach supports the legal process, as any changes made to the scene may jeopardize an investigation or lead to the dismissal of evidence in court. Understanding the importance of preserving the scene allows officers to play a pivotal role in the protection of evidence, aiding in the successful prosecution of those involved in criminal activities.

The other options present various misunderstandings about crime scene protocols. For instance, cleaning the scene could remove important evidence, while solely relying on verbal documentation fails to provide a concrete record of the scene's condition. Moving items arbitrarily can alter the crime scene in a way that can inhibit investigations. Thus, the emphasis on preservation is fundamental to the responsibilities of a security officer at a crime scene.