Short description:

By introducing each step taken in a criminal investigation, this text allows students to gain a clear understanding of the processes involved and helps them to critically assess the interplay of investigations, criminology and forensics.

Long description:

This book is a lucid and practical guide to understanding the core skills and issues involved in the criminal investigation process.

Drawing on multiple disciplines and perspectives, the book promotes a critical awareness and practical comprehension of the intersections between criminology, criminal investigation and forensic science, and uses active learning strategies to help students build their knowledge.

The book is organised around the three key strategic phases in a criminal investigation:

- Instigation and Initial Response

- The Investigation

- Case Management

Each strategic phase of the investigative process is carefully explained and examined. Alongside this practical approach, theoretical perspectives and academic research are laid bare for students.

Introducing Forensic and Criminal Investigation is essential reading for students in criminology, criminal justice, policing, forensic psychology and related courses.

An impressive team of experts covers just about every aspect of criminal investigation in this fascinating volume. The wide ranging descriptions of issues and concepts are brought to life with accounts of the personal experiences of operational detectives, making this an important resource for everyone from students of criminal and forensic investigation to trainee police officers.
Professor David Canter
Director, International Research Centre for Investigative Psychology

This book is a must read for any serious student of criminal and forensic investigation. The detailed theory is skilfully brought to life through case studies and examples of practical application, which give an excellent insight into the mechanics and complexity of investigating serious and major crime. Highly recommended.
Heidi Oliver
Retired Detective Inspector, Hampshire Constabulary CID and Major Crime Department

A superb investigation of the investigators. Any student, of any experience, wanting to know about the latest ways of reducing the fallibility of humans in divining the 'truth' of a possible crime should read this book. You are taken step by step through the stages of investigation and given a thorough test of your prejudices.
Dr Simon Bramble
Head of Police Science & Forensics, Home Office

Table of Contents:

Introduction
A Brief History of Criminal Investigation
Criminal Investigation and Victims
Strategic Phase One: Instigation and Initial Response
Initial Response and Crime Scene Lockdown
Crime Scene Examiners
Strategic Phase Two: The Investigation
Investigative Strategy
Forensic Science Specialisms: Palynology, Entomology and DNA
Electronic and Passive Data
Suspect Prioritisation, Behavioural Analysis and Profiling
Interviewing Victims and Witnesses
Suspect Interviews
Strategic Phase Three: Case Management
Case Files
Case Reviews