Open Forum for Criminal Investigation

  Imagine that you have been asked by the local law enforcement agency to assist in the criminal investigation of a homicide. They present you with 20,000 pages of evidence and materials associated with the case. What do you do first? You get organized! Phase I in the criminal investigative process is Organization and Summary of Information. It is the foundation for thorough and accurate analysis. There are many different methods for organizing case files, but the method used must be logical and it must be tailored to the analyst. Once the case files are organized, the analyst can begin a structured review of the content. During this phase, information is summarized, but not analyzed. This week, you will be presented with case material that has been organized in a standard format. You will review the materials and begin to summarize your findings. In the Open Forum Discussion, you will discuss aspects of the case and seek clarification of elements of evidence. Learning Objectives Students will: Analyze case material Identify salient factors in the case material Summarize case material During Weeks 4–7, you participate in an Open Forum Discussion concerning the criminal investigative analysis you are conducting for your assignments and Final Project. This is your opportunity to discuss aspects of the case and seek clarification about elements of evidence that will support your conclusion of the case and eventual report to the law enforcement agency that requested your services. When analyzing a case, it is essential that the analyst has access to all investigative material. As you review the case material, determine: Do you have all information relevant to the crime scene? Photos Reports Interviews Forensic Reports Do you have all information relevant to the medical examination? Autopsy Reports Autopsy Photos Forensic Reports Do you have all relevant information for the victim? In this Open Forum Discussion, you begin to collaborate with your colleagues to determine your initial thoughts about the case. To prepare for the Discussion: Review the evidence of the case. BY DAY 3 Post a response to the following: What are your initial thoughts on the crime scene? What other things would you like to know about the victim?