O'Hara's Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation

Book excerpt: Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation has served as the “Bible” of criminal investigation for many years. The ninth edition reflects the changes in advancements in forensic science, practices of criminalistics, computerization, electronic databases, and the Internet while remaining focused on the fundamentals of criminal investigation to help investigators build a solid foundation of investigative skills. Criminal investigators will learn what is meant by a complete investigation and acquaint themselves with the proofs of the most important crimes. In addition, they will become familiar with the employment of technical methods and services that are available. The tools of the investigator are referred to as the three “I’s,” namely, “Information,” “Interrogation,” and “Instrumentation.” This new edition includes an expanded discussion of this valuable tool. Among the changes in this new edition are the following: Updates to crime rates and occurrences; updated references and resources; updated glossary; a new chapter and section outline in the appendix to help facilitate locating material; revised crime scene investigation procedures; new information of the Next Generation Identification electronic database; new information on serial number restoration; new discussion of stress and determining deception; new discussion of intelligence analysis; revision of arson investigation techniques and practices; expanded discussion of Internet swindles; and an updated discussion of commonly abused drugs. The presentation of material in this book is directed to the beginning student of investigation, but experienced investigators and supervisors will find this text an excellent resource.