Historically, some scholars have debated that criminal investigation is an art and not a science, while others have argued that modern investigative methods are primarily scientific in nature. In recent years, major technological developments have increased law enforcement services and advanced crime solving capabilities. Criminal investigation is indeed an art; an art that embraces and incorporates many precepts of modern science and technology.

This course is an advanced continuation of the investigative material presented in ADJ 236 - (principles of criminal investigation). It continues with the examination of the criminal investigation process, and presents an overview of specialized investigative procedures and techniques. It examines and portrays the investigative role in regards to specific criminal offenses.

Entry Level Competencies: ADJ 236 or division approval

If you do well in this course, you will be able to:

1. survey various types and categories of criminal evidence.
2. develop methods of interviewing and interrogating witnesses.
3. discuss legal implications regarding confessions and admissions.
4. discuss specialized investigations in the United States.

Possible Assignments Include: (Subject to change each semester. The actual assignments are available in the Syllabus in the Blackboard course site on the first day of classes.)

Your final grade may be based on the following scale. Please note that you must also pass at least several exams in order to pass the course, regardless of your scores on the other assignments.

There are 2 exams in this course.

Last Updated: August 19, 2011