Designed to help readers discover both the art and science of criminal investigation, this book explores the legal significance of evidence in the field, outlines the fundamentals of inquiry, and then carefully details each element of investigation?from the preliminaries to case preparation for prosecutor review. Reflecting the most recent changes in techniques and their application to various crimes, it features real-life case studies that give readers practice in developing their abilities to analyze, evaluate, and reason. Ethical Awareness. The Crime Scene. Witnesses and Evidence. Recording the Crime Scene. Basic Investigative Leads and Informants. Major Investigative Techniques. Laboratory and Technical Services. Interrogation of Suspects. Arresting the Accused Person. Physical Assaults. Sexual Assaults. Robbery. Arson, Bombing and Hate Crimes. Property Crimes. Dangerous Drugs, Vice/Gambling, and Organized Crimes. The Investigator as a Witness. For those involved in criminal investigations.