NCJ Number
79910
Date Published
1970
Length
86 pages
Annotation
Investigative process theory is discussed, and a research design intended to provide empirical data for evaluating crime investigation in a medium-sized police department (serving populations from 100,000 to 300,000) is developed.
Abstract
The model is based on the hypothesis that the investigative process is subject to objective analysis and time measurement. The model focuses on four aspects of the investigative process. The procedural profile is a measurement of the characteristics of the system and what occurs in the processing of criminal cases. The study of the investigative effort is a segmental measurement of time devoted to the investigative process. The transitional pattern aims at defining stratified and segmental objectives and considers other factors that influence the nature of the procedural profile. Finally, the impact that the segmented process exerts, both internally and upon defined objectives, is analyzed. Instruments have been designed to provide objective data, and the principal instrument used in the compilation of time during the segmenting of the continuum of the investigative process is the case sheet. The case status report measures the timing and condition under which an investigation is terminated. The basic analytical techniques used in the model are an investigative flow chart and the ratio-delay technique. In order to test the investigative process instruments, researchers conducted a limited study with the Garden Grove, Calif., Police Department. It is concluded that the instruments provide the researcher with valid and reliable data for analyzing the investigative process. About 30 bibliographic listings and tabular and graphic data are provided.