How do we handle a destruction of property call?

• A. Canvass, check for witnesses, and collect evidence
• B. Arrest the first suspect
• C. Leave the scene
• D. Issue a citation

Answer: (A)

Handling a destruction of property call centers on gathering information and preserving evidence to determine what happened and who may be involved. Canvassing the area for witnesses, asking non-leading questions, and collecting statements helps establish a timeline and potential leads, while documenting the scene and collecting physical evidence—photos of damage, notes, possible tools, and looking for surveillance—builds a solid basis for investigation. Rushing to arrest the first person you encounter or leaving the scene would undermine the facts and risk missing important evidence. Issuing a citation alone doesn’t address the underlying incident or advance the investigation. By focusing on outreach to witnesses and careful evidence collection, you set up a clearer path to identify responsible parties and understand the event.