Understanding Criminal Investigation

Understanding Criminal Investigation presents a critical assessment and in-depth analysis of current investigative practices utilized in the UK. Moving beyond the restrictive framework provided by legal texts, the book instead focuses on key issues and debates surrounding such topics as the history of policing, theories of investigations, and reasoning. Contributions from a psychological perspective include eyewitness testimony, interviewing and profiling, performance measurement, and the broader impact of the criminal justice system on investigative practice. Other topics addressed include the investigation of sexual offences, the use of forensic science, and issues relating to police and detective training and professionalism.