Basic Investigation Skills

The Basic Investigation Skills course focuses on key areas of crime investigation including case management, responding to a crime scene, interviewing, statement taking, gathering evidence, search warrants, and file presentation.

The course features an enhanced, multi-media case study of the “Big Ben” investigation. Video, audio, and pictures of the interrogation and crime scene, as well as case law and other documentation in relation to the investigation, are used to reinforce learning objectives.

The Basic Investigation Skills course is designed to prepare officers to manage a major case and deliver testimony in court proceedings. It is a basic overview of the critical components and procedures of a criminal investigation and is designed as an introduction for junior front-line officers or as a refresher for more experienced officers. This course will also be of interest to officers who:

• Possess limited knowledge and experience in investigations and major case management
• Are not fully aware of the standards and the roles of a first responder during an investigation
• Have never been called as a witness, been exposed to a major case file, or worked on a case where the “Ident” team was involved

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

• Understand the importance of case management in the law enforcement process
• Understand the role and responsibilities of the first responding officer at a crime scene
• Apply basic interviewing techniques when taking statements during the course of a criminal investigation
• Identify the process for gathering evidence in the context of a criminal investigation
• Understand the rationale and process involved in the preparation and use of a search warrant
• Apply case management principles for efficient file presentation

Target Audience

Sworn Police, Police Services, Government and Other First Responders