CJ 210 Introduction to Criminal Investigations

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Introduces the purpose, processes, and basic concepts of a criminal investigation. Explains the legalities and legal requirements related to such an investigation. Covers the investigator, the investigative process, and the investigator’s crime scene responsibilities. Identifies the types of evidence collected during an investigation and how to utilize the evidence in understanding what occurred and what is still needed to complete the investigation. Introduces the basic differences in person vs properly related crime investigations. Covers the court process once an investigation is complete.

Differential Fee Yes
Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe the purpose, processes, and basic concepts of a criminal investigation.
Explain the legalities and legal requirements related to a criminal investigation.
Identify the value, use, and collection of physical and testimonial evidence.
Describe the need for and purpose behind conducting follow-up investigations.
Explain the differences between a person crime and a property crime investigation.
Identify how the court process works once a criminal investigation is complete.

Content Outline

Introduction to Criminal Investigations
Legal Aspects of Criminal Investigations
Investigators and the Investigative Process
The Crime Scene
Physical Evidence-Collection/Processing
Testimonial Evidence- Interview/Interrogation
The Follow-Up Investigation
Criminal Investigations- Person Crimes
Criminal Investigation- Property Crimes
Criminal Investigations- the Court Process