A police investigation establishes legal guidelines for bringing in law enforcement, forensic specialists and legal authorities to investigate crimes and capture suspects. It also provides the framework for presenting the evidence in court and providing justice to victims and their families. Modern criminal investigations often use advanced scientific methods, but human skills remain vitally important as well.
An important first step is to preserve a crime scene. Whether it’s a burglary, murder or even a missing child, the integrity of every physical clue matters. Various factors can destroy evidence, including weather and crowds. Even well-intentioned friends and relatives can accidentally contaminate the evidence they gather.
After a scene is secure, investigators begin speaking with witnesses and victims. They may use cognitive interview techniques to help people recall relevant information. They also interrogate suspected offenders, though such procedures are delicate and subject to strict courtroom limitations.
Crime labs can analyze fingerprinting, photomicrography, hair analysis and more. DNA analysis is gaining popularity and can help identify victims and suspects. The labs also analyze blood and urine, examine crime-scene bloodstain patterns and use a variety of other tools for finding hidden items.
Once the investigators complete their work, they compile all direct evidence, reports and witness lists into a file for prosecutors. The prosecutors then decide whether to press charges against the suspect.
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