Introducing Forensic and Criminal Investigation
- Jane Monckton-Smith - University of Gloucestershire, UK
- Tony Adams - Former Detective Superintendent
- Adam Hart - University of Gloucestershire, UK
- Julia Webb - University of Gloucestershire, UK
Drawing on multiple disciplines and perspectives, the book promotes a critical awareness and practical comprehension of the intersections between criminology, criminal investigation, and forensic science and uses active learning strategies to help students build their knowledge and ensure that the veracity of evidence and decision making is made clear.
The book is organised around the three key strategic phases in a criminal investigation: Instigation and Initial Response; The Investigation and Case Management, and each strategic phase of the investigative process is discussed to ensure the processes and responsibilities are relayed in a logical and practical structure. Alongside this practical approach theoretical perspectives and academic research are laid bare for students.
Targeted at undergraduate students studying forensic and criminal investigation on criminology and policing course, this book is the perfect balance of practical and theoretical learning.
An impressive team of experts covers just about every aspect of criminal investigation in this fascinating volume. The wide ranging descriptions of issues and concepts are brought to life with accounts of the personal experiences of operational detectives, making this an important resource for everyone from students of criminal and forensic investigation to trainee police officers.
Professor David Canter
Director, International Research Centre for Investigative Psychology
This book is a must read for any serious student of criminal and forensic investigation. The detailed theory is skilfully brought to life through case studies and examples of practical application, which give an excellent insight into the mechanics and complexity of investigating serious and major crime. Highly recommended.
Heidi Oliver
Retired Detective Inspector, Hampshire Constabulary CID and Major Crime Department
A superb investigation of the investigators. Any student, of any experience, wanting to know about the latest ways of reducing the fallibility of humans in divining the 'truth' of a possible crime should read this book. You are taken step by step through the stages of investigation and given a thorough test of your prejudices.
Dr Simon Bramble
Head of Police Science & Forensics, Home Office
What an excellent book! It takes the reader through all of the aspects needed within this area and it also helps with the practical application of policing.
Very useful to select case studies for use as examples and activities to bring forensic investigations to life.
Would be great for students, with relevant case studies for them to use to support their assignment and regular revision questions for assessment.
Book is written in very clear and concise terms making it recommended reading for any learner new to this area of law.
This book is a very useful addition to the text used in our science lessons.
There are plenty of case studies that keep the learners motivated and engaged, and we also searched the internet for some additional research on them.
The text is well written and provides plenty of theory from the sciences behind forensics which is really what is required.
This is a great textbook that is set out in a logical format.
I would recommend for anyone to get an overall view of forensic investigation
This book provides a clear, in-depth overview of the forensic and criminal investigation process. Perfect for my course.
Good text on the criminal investigative process
This is a good, easy to follow, textbook, to introduce students to the area of forensic and criminal investigation. The use of case studies, linking academic theory to practice, is a very useful addition. This provides additional references to support further reading.