Effective police investigative practices: an evidence-assessment of the research
Policing: An International Journal
ISSN: 1363-951X
Article publication date: 23 June 2021
Issue publication date: 31 August 2021
Abstract
Purpose
Detective work is a mainstay of modern law enforcement, but its effectiveness has been much less evaluated than patrol work. To explore what is known about effective investigative practices and to identify evidence gaps, the authors assess the current state of empirical research on investigations.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors assess the empirical research about the effectiveness of criminal investigations and detective work in resolving cases and improving clearance rates.
Findings
The authors’ analysis of the literature produced 80 studies that focus on seven categories of investigations research, which include the impact that case and situational factors, demographic and neighborhood dynamics, organizational policies and practices, investigative effort, technology, patrol officers and community members have on case resolution. The authors’ assessment shows that evaluation research examining the effectiveness of various investigative activities is rare. However, the broader empirical literature indicates that a combination of organizational policies, investigative effort and certain technologies can be promising in improving investigative outcomes even in cases deemed less solvable.
Research limitations/implications
From an evidence-based perspective, this review emphasizes the need for greater transparency, evaluation and accountability of investigative activities given the resources and importance afforded to criminal investigations.
Originality/value
This review is currently the most up-to-date review of the state of the research on what is known about effective investigative practices.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This evidence-assessment was funded by a grant from Arnold Ventures.
Citation
Prince, H., Lum, C. and Koper, C.S. (2021), "Effective police investigative practices: an evidence-assessment of the research", Policing: An International Journal, Vol. 44 No. 4, pp. 683-707. https://doi.org/10.1108/PIJPSM-04-2021-0054
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited