“The investigation of a crime encompasses the collection of information and evidence to identify, apprehend, and convict suspected offenders” (Osterburg). Many things can come to mind when we think of an investigation, such as the TV shows Law and Order, CSI and Criminal Minds. The realities of an investigation, however, differ greatly from these television shows. In reality, an investigator must assume certain responsibilities to obtain the evidence necessary to prosecute the offender and close the case successfully. It is important to understand that an investigation ultimately contributes to the solving of crimes, which also leads to the crucial evidence-gathering process and efforts to bring the prosecution to fruition. This involves collecting different types of evidence that must be considered, as well as following the necessary guidelines so that all evidence is impartial, relevant, material and competent. How to start opening a criminal investigation? Well, a crime must be committed and the first responders are patrol officers. They are the initial result of eliminating most crimes. For what ? Since they are the first to arrive at the crime scene, the officers conduct a preliminary investigation. This involves “determining whether the offender is at the crime scene or in the area, meeting the needs of the victim, and ensuring the general safety of anyone in the immediate vicinity” (Grant and Terry). Initial processing of the crime scene and recording of relevant evidence and information is essential for a patrol officer to document, since the report will be forwarded to the detectives/investigators (Grant and Terry). According to Osterburg, an investigation is a reconstruction of the crime scene. past (5); this gives...... middle of paper ...... and its connection with evidence are seen through television shows, but the procedure through which an investigation goes and its guidelines are not shown. It's not as easy and simple as TV shows show, but it's most likely a trial and error process. An investigation only occupies 15 percent, while 60 percent is used for patrol resources (Grant and Terry). This can clearly give you an idea that when there is not much evidence to continue an investigation, there probably won't be an investigation unless evidence related to the crime emerges. Works Cited Grant, Heath B and Karen J Terry. Law enforcement in the 21st century. New Jersey: Pearson Education Inc., 2012. Ingram, Jefferson L. Criminal Evidence. Burlinton: Elsevier Science, 2009. Osterburg, James W. Criminal Investigation: A Method for Reconstructing the Past. Burlington: Elsevier Science, 2010.