NCJ Number
189156
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 70 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2001 Pages: 1-4
Date Published
June 2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the central components of major criminal cases and emphasizes that the methods with which police managers handle their responsibilities ultimately affects the overall success or failure of a case.
Abstract
Most major cases share the following elements: duration, similar types of criminal activity, multiagency involvement, impact on personnel and resources, and extensive media attention. Police agencies should generally investigate major cases much like any other case. However, they should manage them differently than regular cases. Major cases do not end with the solution of the case. Researchers have determined that the five significant elements that can influence the outcome of major cases are the mission statement, the role of each participant, the identity of the stakeholders, the perception of the stakeholders, and the attention given to the long-term impact of the case. Managers can increase the chances of a successful case outcome by using these five elements as a guide. Effective investigation coupled with effective management will equate to success. Photographs and reference notes