POL5062 - Criminal Investigation

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

Examine fundamental principles, legislation and powers related to conducting investigations

Understand the structure and processes in relation to investigating

Explain the appropriate processes for gathering and managing evidence/information that may be pertinent to an investigation

Understand the legislation and supporting principles relating to police interviews

Understand the difference between 'volume and priority' crime and 'serious and complex' crime and the relevance to the investigative process

Understand the additional sources of intelligence that can be obtained during a complex investigation

Explain how personal attitudes, values and biases can impact on an investigation

Review the roles and processes associated with conducting complex investigations

Understand the intricacies associated with victim and witness care during a complex investigation

Explain additional professional considerations to be considered in relation to specific complex investigations

Explain the range of specialists to liaise with in relation to complex live (or cold) cases

Content:

This module introduces students to the criminal investigation process. Students will be required to distinguish between diverse types of crime and why this is important in the investigation process. Students will be introduced to the several types of evidence and understand the importance of effective evidence management and the implications of not following policy and procedure. Complex live and cold cases will form a large part of this module, with students analysing the resources required to investigate such cases. Students will consider the challenges that victims and witnesses face during a complex investigation and the police response to these challenges.

This module covers the key principles of criminal investigation. The main legislation underpinning this module includes: The Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, the Human Rights Act 1998, The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, The Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 1995 and the Investigatory Powers Act 2016. Students will develop an understanding of the key terminology in relation to investigating including the investigative mindset, best evidence, material/information/intelligence, and disclosure. Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of what constitutes evidence using practical scenarios and real-life case studies. Reference will be made to the use of body worn cameras and how effective these are in the evidence gathering process and subsequent use in court. Students will understand the term ‘golden hour’ and why this is important. Students’ knowledge and understanding will be applied to different crime scenarios and students will appreciate the distinct roles and responsibilities therein. Students will critically evaluate the police response to high profile complex crime and incidents.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Lectures
Hours: 40
Intended Group Size: 25-40

Guided independant study
Hours: 160

Further details relating to assessment
Practical scenario: students will engage in practical scenarios which assist in consolidation of knowledge throughout each stage of the investigative process and will inform the production of their portfolio.
Portfolio of evidence: students will produce a written portfolio of evidence which will be built up throughout the module, which takes into consideration and is reflective of the requirements of a PIP2 investigator.

Other information
Both components of assessment must be passed to meet professional requirements. The College of Policing also stipulate that modules cannot be condoned for marginal failure

Assessment:

001 Practical case study scenario; 4 hours; mid semester 50%
002 Portfolio of evidence; 2,000 words; end of semester 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Jon Hyslop
Level - 5
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 5S1

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