What Are the Methods of Inquiry and How Are They Used in Criminal Investigation?

What are the methods of inquiry and how are they used in criminal investigation?

The method of inquiry is the who, what, when, where, why, and how a crime happened. There are two different categories of method of inquiry those who reconstruct the past (historian, criminal investigator) and those that discover or create new knowledge (scientist). These methods are used to reconstruct the past and the present. Investigators use the method of inquiry to collect evidence using geology, geography, anthropology, forensic medicine, statistics, computer technology, and criminalistics to solve crimes. They are used to help an investigator to form a hypothesis of what happened. It is used to see if two crimes are related or not. The results of the inquiry will either prove or disapprove the investigators hypothesis. For example an investigator is trying to solve a case involving a break-in where nothing is taken. After examining the crime scene the investigator will form a theory (hypothesis) on why the burglar didn't steal anything. After using the methods of inquiry the investigator will have his/her theory proved or disapproved.

What is the optimal mindset of an investigator and how are the concepts associated with the optimal mindset of an investigator manifest?

The optimal mindset of an investigator provides foresight as well as insight into the investigator. It is something a person can have at birth. Is more than just a suspicion? It can make a connection between items that are not related. It can piece together different bits of information. It asks an investigator three basic questions: What exactly is wrong? Is there anything out of place? Is anything unusual? It can be developed through practice, experience, and schooling.

What is the scientific method and how is it applied to a criminal investigation by criminal investigators?

Scientific method is applied to a criminal investigation by stating the problem, forming a hypothesis, collection of data, and by drawing conclusions. By processing what type of crime happened and in what jurisdiction the crime took place. Hypothesizing to possible suspects from statements gathered from witnesses and the victim. Gathering physical and scientific evidence. Obtaining suspects home addresses, place of employment, and vehicle information if at all possible. Is a way of detecting problems. Make assumptions to what or may not have happened. The investigator recreates the crime scene to gather any and all information possible to help solve the crime. Uses facts collected from a crime scene to form a hypothesis to what happened and by whom.

Discuss the three primary sources of information for criminal investigators and provide detailed practical examples of each source listed.

The three primary sources of information for criminal investigators