1. Case Assignment & Initial Assessment

• Receive the case from a patrol officer, dispatcher, or supervisor.
• Review initial reports, evidence, witness statements, and any other information collected at the scene.
• Determine jurisdiction and whether further investigation is warranted.

2. Crime Scene Management

• Secure the scene (if not already done).
• Collect evidence, such as:
  • Physical evidence (weapons, clothing, fingerprints, DNA, etc.)
  • Digital evidence (phones, computers, surveillance footage)
• Photograph and document the scene thoroughly.
• Preserve the chain of custody for all evidence collected.

3. Witness & Victim Interviews

• Locate and interview witnesses and victims as soon as possible to preserve memory accuracy.
• Record statements, ideally on video.
• Re-interview as necessary for clarification or new leads.

4. Suspect Identification

• Use evidence, witness descriptions, surveillance, and databases (e.g., criminal records, facial recognition, etc.) to:
  • Identify possible suspects.
  • Rule out individuals.
• May use lineups (photo or in-person) or interrogation techniques to confirm identity.

5. Evidence Analysis

• Send collected evidence to a lab for forensic testing:
  • DNA analysis
  • Ballistics
  • Fingerprint comparison
  • Toxicology
  • Digital forensics
• Review results and assess their impact on the case.

6. Surveillance & Intelligence Gathering

• If needed, conduct surveillance on suspects (physical or electronic).
• Use confidential informants or undercover officers.
• Gather intelligence from databases or other law enforcement agencies.

7. Interrogation of Suspects

• Bring suspects in for questioning (following Miranda rights and legal protocols).
• Use legally permissible interrogation techniques to obtain confessions or information.
• Record interviews for documentation and potential court use.

8. Case File Compilation

• Organize all evidence, witness statements, forensic reports, timelines, and theories.
• Prepare a detailed case report that can be submitted for prosecution.
• Include:
  • Timeline of events
  • Narrative of the investigation
  • Summary of findings
  • Charges being recommended

9. Coordination with Prosecutors

• Work with the District Attorney or prosecutor’s office.
• Present evidence and discuss charges.
• Assist in building the legal case for trial.

10. Arrest & Warrant Execution

• If probable cause is established:
  • Obtain arrest and/or search warrants.
  • Coordinate with other officers or SWAT if necessary.
  • Execute the arrest and book the suspect.

11. Testimony & Court Appearances

• Testify in court about the investigation and findings.
• May need to defend methods, evidence, and suspect identification under cross-examination.

12. Case Follow-Up

• Assist with victim support or post-trial investigations if necessary.
• Revisit evidence or witnesses as needed.
• Address defense motions or appeals.