The Importance of Gathering Information in Criminal Investigations

Alan's Purpose at the Crime Scene

Alan, a police officer, has just approached a crime scene along with his team. The suspect in concern has fled from the scene. Alan is trying to obtain all possible details about the suspect from the victim and eyewitnesses.

Question:

What could be Alan's purpose?

A) To prepare a lengthy investigation report

B) To analyze the behavior of individuals affected by the crime

C) To use the information in an interview with the media

D) To broadcast an All-Points Bulletin for the suspect

E) To decide the type of sentence that the offender must be given

Final answer: Alan is gathering information about the suspect from the crime scene to issue an All-Points Bulletin (APB) to assist in the search and identification of the suspect. This is key in the criminal investigation process.

Answer:

Explanation: Alan, the police officer, is collecting details about the suspect from the victim and eyewitnesses primarily to broadcast an All-Points Bulletin for the suspect, option D. An All-Points Bulletin (APB) is a broadcast issued from a law enforcement agency to others. Therefore, the information obtained would aid other officers and law enforcement institutions in the search and capture of the suspect. The more detailed and accurate the information about the suspect, the higher the chances of locating the suspect, hence the quintessential need for collecting as much information as possible at the earliest moment after a crime has occurred. This is often a common first step in the criminal investigation process.