What to do if your pub becomes a crime scene

Operators are shown the steps staff should take to ensure important forensic evidence is not lost or contaminated when crimes take place in their premises.

The film focuses on the reaction of bar staff ​ and security towards a female customer who appears to have been drugged by a fellow punter. Viewers are walked through how to effectively protect the victim, detain the suspect and preserve the scene for police officers

Common features of a crime scene can include blood stains or splatters, evidence of drugs, and fingerprints. Actions of witnesses and victims are also key in identifying when a crime has taken place, the film advises.

'Caution'

Chances of a successful prosecution can drastically decrease if a crime scene becomes contaminated, which can occur when evidence is lost, removed, moved or otherwise externally affected. Forensic evidence, including hair, fingerprints and DNA, should be treated with caution.

A victim coming into contact with a suspect or a suspect leaving evidence in the crime scene after the crime took place can also raise doubt in court. It is important to ensure an offender cannot claim DNA or fingerprints are the result of a later contact.

Staff who have detained a suspected criminal should also avoid later contact with the crime scene or victims.

Pubs are also encouraged to make comprehensive incident reports.

The film was shot at the Scotch Bar, in Windsor, Berkshire, with the assistance of crime scene investigations officers from the Thames Valley Police.