What is the most thorough search method used by police?

The grid search method is recognized for its thoroughness and effectiveness in locating evidence or missing persons at a crime scene. This technique involves dividing the area into a grid pattern and then conducting overlapping searches in two different directions, typically perpendicular to each other. This systematic approach ensures that each section of the area is covered comprehensively, reducing the chance of missing any crucial evidence.

One of the key advantages of the grid search is its ability to provide multiple perspectives and angles of the area being searched. By overlapping the search paths, it minimizes the risk of oversight and enhances the likelihood of finding evidence that may be obscure from a single directional search.

This method is particularly useful in large or complex scenes where evidence might be scattered or hidden among various elements of the environment. The grid search is favored for its methodical and repeatable nature, making it a cornerstone in criminal investigations.