1st Edition

Introduction to Criminal Investigation

Edited By Michael Birzer, Cliff Roberson Copyright 2012
    400 Pages 10 B/W Illustrations
    by Routledge

    400 Pages
    by Routledge

    The manner in which criminal investigators are trained is neither uniform nor consistent, ranging from sophisticated training protocols in some departments to on-the-job experience alongside senior investigators in others. Ideal for students taking a first course in the subject as well as professionals in need of a refresher, Introduction to Criminal Investigation uses an accessible format to convey concepts in practical, concrete terms.

    Topics discussed include

    • The history of criminal investigation in Western society
    • Qualifications for becoming an investigator, the selection process, and ideal training requirements
    • Crime scene search techniques, including planning and post-search debriefing
    • Preparing effective field notes and investigative reports
    • Interviewing and interrogating
    • Types of evidence found at the crime scene and how to collect, package, and preserve it
    • The contributions of forensic science to criminal investigations and the equipment used in crime labs
    • Investigative protocol for a range of crimes, including property crimes, auto theft, arson, financial crimes, homicide, assault, sex crimes, and robbery
    • Specialized investigations, including drug trafficking, cybercrime, and gang-related crime
    • Legal issues involved in criminal investigations and preparing a case for trial

    Bringing together contributions from law enforcement personnel, academics, and attorneys, the book combines practical and theoretical elements to provide a comprehensive examination of today’s criminal investigative process. The accessible manner in which the information is conveyed makes this an ideal text for a wide-ranging audience.

    Foundations
    A Brief History of Criminal Investigation; John A. Eterno
    Introducing Criminal Investigation; Bryan Courtney
    Preliminary Considerations
    Crime Scene Search; Michael L. Birzer
    Report Writing; Gene L. Scaramella
    Interview and Interrogation; Scott M. Mire and Robert D. Hanser
    Evidence; Cory Rodivich
    The Role of Forensic Science; Cory Rodivich
    Property Crimes and Financial Investigations
    Vandalism; Matthew O’Deane
    Larceny and Burglary; Walt J. Wywadis
    Auto Theft; Donald Munday
    Arson Investigations; Cliff Roberson
    Financial Investigation; Michael J. Palmiotto
    Crimes against Persons
    Homicide and Assault; Gregg W. Etter and Roger L. Pennel
    Sex Crimes; John Padgett
    Robbery; J. Harrison Watts
    Specialized Investigations
    Narcotics Investigation; Donald F. Vess
    Cybercrime; Mark R. McCoy
    Gang Investigation; Gregg W. Etter
    Putting It All Together
    Legal Issues in Criminal Investigations; Frank DiMarino
    Preparing the Case for Court; Cliff Roberson and Gwynne Birzer
    Index

    Biography

    Michael Birzer, Cliff Roberson