Promoting Effective Homicide Investigations

Law enforcement executives, academics, attorneys, and federal government representatives addressed the different effective strategies that have been developed to combat these problems, including various management and personnel decisions, videotaping suspect interviews, considering the availability of eyewitness identification options (simultaneous lineups versus sequential lineups), DNA analysis, and using cold case units and crime analysts to increase clearance rates. Case studies presented at the conference highlighted both the strengths and weaknesses associated with various investigation techniques. A town hall forum allowed attendees to discuss variables that contribute to an effective homicide unit. A lively discussion ensued, with participants mainly focusing on the role of science and technology, specifically how technology may at first appear to complicate the process but ultimately assists law enforcement by fostering change and improving investigational methods. PERF and the COPS Office hope that this publication will help law enforcement officials determine which promising practices are the most appropriate for their departments. It has been our pleasure to facilitate and summarize the discussion for the benefit of all.…