Exploring the impact of CSI effect and appropriate media handling during crime investigation

In the last few years, media has raised the number of shows based on crime scene investigation on televisions. Due to a drastic increase in the audience, many people assume that they have a full understanding and knowledge base of crime scene investigation. The effect of such shows on the general audience, as well as on the jurisdiction, is considered as the CSI Effect. The consequences of the CSI Effect have impacted the public as well as law enforcement. Media can also be regarded as an investigative tool in crime investigation in the forensic field. The present review focuses on investigating the impact of the CSI effect and addressing fundamental issues through effective media handling in crime and criminal investigations. The development of suitable media strategies, mechanisms for managing media, disclosure, and acquisition of information are also discussed. The proposed strategies will support the general public and law enforcement community to use media handling in major crimes and to approach the proper, unbiased, impartial, and timely forensic investigations.