This text stresses the practical procedures, techniques, and applications of private and public investigations to provide students with a solid foundation in criminal investigation. It seamlessly integrates coverage of modern investigative tools alongside discussion of established investigation policies, procedures, and techniques for the law enforcement officer. The 8th Edition features updated, enhanced coverage of such important topics as terrorism and homeland security, cybercrime, forensics and physical evidence, federal law enforcement investigations, report writing, crimes against children, photography and sketching, preparing and presenting cases in court, and identity theft.

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

Criminal Investigation: An Overview

SECTION 2 BASIC INCESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Documenting the Crime Scene: Note Taking, Photographing, and Sketching

Writing Effective Reports

Searches

Forensics/Physical Evidence

Obtaining Information

Identifying and Arresting Suspects

SECTION 3 INVESTIGATING VIOLENT CRIMES

Death investigatons

Assault, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Elder Abuse Sex Offenses

Crimes against Children and Youths

Robbery

SECTION 4 INVESTIGATING CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY

Burglary

Larceny/Theft, Fraud, and White-Collar Crime

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson, Bombs, and Explosives

SECTION 5 OTHER CHALLENGES TO THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR

Computer Crime and Its Evolution into Cybercrime

A Dual Threat: Drug-Related Crime and Organized Crime

Criminal Activities of Gangs and Other Dangerous Groups

Terrorism and Homeland Security

Preparing for and Presenting Cases in Court

Appendix A: Sudden In-Custody Death: An Investigator's Checklist

Appendix B: Death Scene Checklist

Appendix C: Bias Offense Report

Glossary

Credits

Author Index

Subject Index