Evidence case reviews increase efficiency and lead to higher clearance rates. Discuss why these reviews are helpful. Focus your discussion on questions about evidence that may aid in a review, i.e., physical evidence, witnesses, suspect(s) confession(s)

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Team reviews allow for better communication and exchange of information between officers involved in an investigation, who might work different shifts. Whether done informally or pursuant to established department policy, evidence reviews can increase the efficiency of investigations and lead to higher clearance rates. The following list suggests some of the methods and questions that are raised in a team review; what physical evidence is available, was the physical evidence obtained in a manner that may be seriously attacked or suppressed under the exclusionary or derivative evidence rule? Are there problems with the chain of custody of the evidence? What witnesses are available and how reliable and dependable are the witnesses? Have the witnesses listed below been evaluated (on a scale from Excellent to Poor, or unknown) on their reliability, dependability, credibility, willingness to testify, and importance of their testimony, as well as their age and appearance? What are some likely ways the witnesses may be attacked on cross- examination? What evidence is available to corroborate statements made by witnesses, especially eyewitnesses? Is there a suspect or suspects? What are the reasons for targeting the suspect? Are any persons related to the case in police custody? If so, on what charges? Are charges for an offense other than the crime under investigation? If so, are the offenses related? Is there an opportunity for multiple clearances? Are confessions or incriminating statements available as evidence? If so: Where and when were the statements made?