Overview

Criminal investigations are integral to an overall crime reduction strategy. Investigations are supported and reinforced by established policies, training programs, and accountability measures. Criminal investigations are bolstered by effective management and specialized training to ensure investigators are updated on new investigative methods, legal standards, and best practices.

Yellow police tape with the words 'CRIME SCENE DO NOT CROSS' in the foreground, with blurred emergency response vehicles and their flashing lights in the background during a night scene.

Self-Review Tool

The Knowledge Lab is developing an online self-review tool to help agencies reflect on their current policies and practices evaluate them against research and evidence-informed practices their performance in key areas of policing. This tool is intended to provide a snapshot of where an agency currently stands within this core practice area. There are no right or wrong answers, only an opportunity for honest reflection, learning, and continuous improvement.

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Resources Related to Crime Investigations

  • Reset

Article | 2024

Mapping Law Enforcement-Based Victim Services

  • Crime Investigations
  • Crime Victim Support

Report | 2024

A Practical Guide to Interviewing Potential Human Trafficking Victims

  • Crime Investigations
  • Crime Victim Support

Guidebook/Tool | 2024

Introducing the NIJ Forensic Intelligence Framework: Pillars and Guiding Principles for Successful Implementation

  • Crime Investigations

Collection, Training, Webpage | 2024

Firearms-Related Training for Law Enforcement

  • Crime Investigations
  • Training and Education

Factsheet | 2023

National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) Fact Sheet

  • Crime and Violence Reduction
  • Crime Investigations

Factsheet | 2023

ATF Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGICs) Fact Sheet

  • Crime and Violence Reduction
  • Crime Investigations

Report | 2019

Reducing Gun Violence: What Works, and What Can Be Done Now

  • Crime and Violence Reduction
  • Crime Investigations

Report | 2018

The Changing Nature of Crime and Criminal Investigations

  • Crime Investigations

The information provided within these modules has been gathered from various sources, including legal reviews, research, and practitioner and department-developed resources. These webpage modules are intended to be a guide for departments to use to improve their policing practices. Additional information and resources may be needed to implement the recommendations successfully. This resource is intended to be dynamic, and the Knowledge Lab will continue to update and add to these modules to provide additional and current guidance for departments.

Explore the Complete Resources Library

Access the complete Resources Library to explore a wide range of strategies, tools, and best practices that support agencies, practitioners, and communities.