It is important to note that hypothesizing as to whom the suspects could be does not necessarily result in the loss of objectivity on the part of the investigator. This is more so the case if the hypothesis is based on an analysis of the motive and/or presence of physical evidence. Data collection on the other hand could include interviewing witnesses, interrogating a potential suspect, etc. Data interpretation could take the form of evaluating as well as reviewing evidence gathered at that point in time. A suspect can be arrested once there is sufficient evidence to charge him or her in a court or law. This allows for the drawing of conclusions. It is however important to note that the hypothetical example I highlight above in an attempt to relate the scientific method to criminal investigation is not standard.
Criminal Investigation: Primary Sources of Information
There are various sources of information for investigators. Osterburg and Ward (2010) identify three of these sources as: "people, physical evidence and, records." When it comes to people, it is important to note that this remains a major information source for an investigator. Information sources in this case could include but they are not in any way limited to informers, suspects, victims, witnesses etc. According to Osterburg and Ward (2010), given the social nature of human beings, information and crucial leads in an ongoing investigation about the possible involvement of an individual in a crime can also be sourced from business associates as well as relatives. As sources of information, witnesses can for example shed more light on what actually took place, how the suspect looked like, etc. When it comes to physical evidence as a primary source of information, Osterburg and Ward (2010) point out that "any object of a material nature is potential physical evidence." Towards that end, the authors give a list of physical evidence typical in a criminal investigation. This could include but is not limited to blood, bullets, narcotics, any kind of...
(Osterburg and Ward, 2010). For instance, the tire impressions left behind by a car at the scene of crime can help link an individual (the owner of the car) to the crime committed. Physical evidence in such a case can further be enhanced if the suspect leaves other leads i.e. A cigarette at the scene of crime. Records as sources of information heavily rely on the existence of stored data or information that could provide crucial leads in an investigation. For instance, toll calls can according to Osterburg and Ward (2010) be used to establish whether any two or more individuals have been in communication. This can be critical when it comes to proving association between two people who are otherwise denying such an association. The internet according to Hess and Orthmann (2009) can also be considered another important source of information. Here, the author gives an example of a kidnapping in which case investigations can be aided by the ability of an investigator to quickly distribute the relevant details as well as photographs of the kidnapped individual.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to note that the sources of information I highlight above are not exhaustive. Care in this case must be taken to ensure that the information sourced is not only relevant but also accurate. Incomplete and inaccurate information can effectively compromise the investigation process.
References
Becker, R.F. & Dutelle, a.W. (2012). Criminal Investigation (4th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
Hess, K.M. & Orthmann, C.H. (2009). Criminal Investigation (9th ed.). Clifton Park, NY: Cengage Learning.
Osterburg, J.W. & Ward, R.H. (2010). Criminal Investigation: A Method for Reconstructing the Past (6th ed.). New Providence, NJ: Matthew Benders & Company, Inc.
Palmiotto, M. (2004). Criminal Investigation (3rd ed.). Lanham, Maryland: University Press of America.
