Criminal Investigation is a method in which investigators and detectives use various scientific resources which are found in criminalistics to help identify suspects, gather evidence, and collect information. These procedures are all brought together in an effort to help convict criminal offenders. Some of the first criminal investigators formed in the eighteenth century, such as the first detective force, the Bow Street Runners as well as Sir Robert Peel, who helped form the first police force. Criminal investigation helps study all physical and social aspects of a crime.
Criminal investigation is studied to help the average person understand the importance of all elements of a crime committed. We can learn why and how a person died. There are elements of geology, physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics related to the physical evidence of a crime. We apply what we know from all these subjects to solve a crime. Also, learning about it keeps our interests up in getting in such detective work.
I have learned in my Criminal Investigation class that teamwork solves a crime. This line of work is not just a one-man operation. The detectives rely on the coroner, pathologist, toxicologist, and forensics to solve a case. Modern technology has advanced the way in which we investigate crimes as well. DNA testing has transformed the world of investigation. I have learned that modern criminal investigation has made it virtually impossible to get away with the "a perfect murder." In some cases I've learned that a simple fiber can help convict a murderer.
The world of criminal investigation is exciting, and constantly keeps you on your toes. A career I am definitely considering pursuing is one in forensics. I hope to one day work with the FBI. I want to investigate the manner in which a crime was committed. Mostly a line of detective work intrigues me as well.
