Course: Introduction / Policing / Investigations
Follow-up investigation refers to police information gathering that takes place between the filing of the initial report and the case being ready for trial.
A follow-up investigation in the criminal justice system refers to the process of gathering additional information by law enforcement officials after the initial report of a crime has been made. This information is used to build a stronger case against the suspect and to ensure that the defendant receives a fair trial.
The initial report of a crime is usually made by the victim, a witness, or law enforcement officials who are present at the scene of the crime. This report is important because it provides the basis for the criminal investigation. However, the initial report may not contain all the necessary information to build a strong case against the suspect.
This is where a follow-up investigation comes in. Law enforcement officials conduct further investigations to gather additional information about the crime, the suspect, and any potential witnesses. This information is used to build a stronger case against the suspect and to ensure that the defendant receives a fair trial.
Follow-up investigation may involve a range of activities, including interviewing witnesses, collecting physical evidence, conducting surveillance, and analyzing forensic evidence. The goal of these activities is to gather as much information as possible about the crime and the suspect so that the case can be built in a thorough and effective manner.
One of the key aspects of follow-up investigation is the collection and analysis of physical evidence. This can include DNA samples, fingerprints, footprints, and other physical evidence that can be used to link the suspect to the crime scene. The collection and analysis of physical evidence must be conducted in a careful and meticulous manner to ensure that the evidence is admissible in court and can withstand scrutiny from the defense.
Another important aspect of follow-up investigation is the interviewing of witnesses. Law enforcement officials may interview witnesses who were present at the scene of the crime or who has information that could be useful to the investigation. These interviews must be conducted in a sensitive and professional manner to ensure that the witness is comfortable and willing to provide accurate information.
In addition to gathering information about the crime and the suspect, a follow-up investigation may also involve tracking down and interviewing potential witnesses. This can include family members, friends, or associates of the suspect who may have information about their whereabouts or activities at the time of the crime.
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Last Modified: 04/06/2023