NCJ Number
158199
Date Published
1996
Length
815 pages
Annotation
This textbook on criminal investigation emphasizes the precision and rigorous methods required for successful case completion; presents typologies of offenses, offenders, and victims; includes short sections on prevention in crime-specific chapters; and differentiates the roles of the uniformed officer and the detective.
Abstract
The introductory chapters discuss the evolution of criminal investigation and criminalistics, and the organization of the investigative function. Subsequent chapters deal with initial procedures involving the crime scene, collection of physical evidence, interviews, and field notes. The book discusses the follow-up investigation, interrogation, and role of the crime laboratory. Several chapters discuss specific types of investigations, including behavioral analysis, injury and death investigations, and investigations into sex-related offenses, crimes against children, robbery, burglary, larceny, vehicle thefts, computer crimes, agricultural and environmental crimes, arson, and drug offenses. The final chapters examine the decision by police to initiate the criminal process, the rules of evidence, and the role of the investigator in the courtroom. Chapter references