G. O 11.03 Preliminary Investigations

Question 1

What is included in a preliminary investigation?

Answer 1

Proceed to scene promptly and safely
Request assistance if needed
Render assistance to the injured
Determine if a crime has been committed
Arrest any suspects
Locate and identify witnesses
Interview the complainant and witnesses
Maintain the crime scene and protect evidence
Interview the suspect
Note all conditions, events, and remarks
Arrange for identification and collection of evidence
Yield the responsibility to the follow up investigator unless assigned to a patrol officer
Assist the follow up investigator if necessary

Question 2

Preliminary interviews should be conducted to determine what?

Answer 2

Has an offense occurred?
What is the seriousness of the offense?
What is the identity or location of any offenders?
What information is needed to broadcast a BOL?
Has the crime scene been established?

Question 3

What specifics should the notes of the preliminary investigation include?

Answer 3

Time of arrival at scene
Weather conditions
Approximate time of the crime
Approximate time the crime was discovered
The identity of other officers present
Results of any interviews
The identity of witnesses, suspects, and victims
Any spontaneous remarks relevant to the case
Information about physical evidence found at the scene

Question 4

What cases are we to turn over to detectives?

Answer 4

Felony crimes against a person
Arson 
Stolen and recovered vehicles 
Economic crimes 
Traffic fatalities 
Fugitive cases