Which crime scene search pattern involves lining up in one direction, examining parallel strips of terrain, and then covering the same area from a second direction?

• A. Spiral
• B. Grid
• C. Line
• D. Zone

Answer: (B)

Grid search is all about thorough coverage by sweeping the scene in two perpendicular directions. First, investigators move along evenly spaced parallel lines in one direction, examining every strip of terrain as they go. Then they repeat the search across the same area from a direction at right angles to the first pass. This creates a grid pattern that minimizes gaps and increases the chances of finding evidence by ensuring every part of the area is looked at from two angles.

Spiral searches start at a central point and move outward in a spiral, which isn’t about two-direction parallel strips. Line searches focus on movement in a single direction along straight lines, not two-direction coverage. Zone searches divide the area into sections or zones rather than performing cross-direction sweeps.