Homicide Investigation

Homicide investigation is a profound duty with awesome responsibilities. The homicide investigator becomes keenly aware of the reality of death and the impact it has on both society and the surviving family. It requires the investigator to develop an understanding of the dynamics of human behavior, as well as the essential details of professional investigation.

The purpose of homicide investigation is to bring justice to the deceased and his or her surviving family, and also to uphold society's interest in apprehending those who commit such acts. This mission is accomplished by conducting a professional and intelligent investigation that results in the identification and apprehension of the killer and a successful prosecution.

In order to conduct an efficient and effective investigation, the investigator must first concentrate on the mechanical aspects of the death, such as motives and methods; wound structures; crime scene reconstruction; the cause, manner, and time of death; as well as other factors that provide clues to the dynamics of the event. The detective then looks for consistencies as well as inconsistencies and must be prepared to change the focus of the investigation as new information develops.

A professional homicide investigator is someone who is a truth seeker; he or she cannot allow opinion, prejudice, or prejudgment to influence the case. There is a need for patience and flexibility in homicide investigation. An integral part of the inquiry is directed toward the elimination of suspects as well as their inclusion. A homicide investigator cannot be an individual with a “lock-and-load” mentality. The true professional must possess a flexible personality that is open to new suggestions, ideas, and concepts that arise in these fluid types of investigations.

In order to be successful, the homicide detective must have an eye for details and the ability to recognize and evaluate evidence. He or she must have above-average intelligence in order to absorb the many details that arise. Most importantly, he or she must be able to effectively interview and interrogate the many different persons with whom he or she will come into contact. The investigation of murder necessitates a certain tenacity and perseverance that transcends the ordinary investigative pursuit.

The investigator must develop the ability to “absorb” the crime scene and must be able to read the uncollectible nuances of the event. These nuances include the psychodynamics, which are the underlying motivations and human emotions, as well as indications of the deliberate staging of the scene in order to mislead or redirect the investigation.

As we enter the 21st century with advanced forensic and technological changes within the law enforcement community, it is important to emphasize the importance of the crime scene. The initial actions taken by the police at the homicide crime scene either will or may eventually determine whether or not the crime is ever solved or the guilty person brought to justice.

In real life, investigators get only one shot at the homicide crime scene and a limited opportunity to question the suspect.