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What do people usually misunderstand about criminal investigators?
#criminology #criminal-justice
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Andy’s Answer
Having worked in law enforcement for the past 16 years, I can tell you most of what crime tv shows is truely Hollywood. The biggest misconceptions being after being in a shoot out you get to go right back to work and that Miranda rights must always be read when someone is arrested.
When an officer is involved in a critical incident they are generally either placed on desk/modified duty or placed on administrative leave (with pay) while the incident is investigated and potentially presented to a grand jury to determine if criminal charges are warranted or not. Secondly, law enforcement is not required to read a suspect their miranda warnings unless they are a suspect in a crime and a custodial interrogation is going to be conducted. Most of the time law enforcement does not conduct custodial interrogations so Miranda does not apply.
When an officer is involved in a critical incident they are generally either placed on desk/modified duty or placed on administrative leave (with pay) while the incident is investigated and potentially presented to a grand jury to determine if criminal charges are warranted or not. Secondly, law enforcement is not required to read a suspect their miranda warnings unless they are a suspect in a crime and a custodial interrogation is going to be conducted. Most of the time law enforcement does not conduct custodial interrogations so Miranda does not apply.
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Frank’s Answer
They often do not understand that for the most part, criminal investigators are unbiased, and the facts and evidence drives the investigation. A good investigator gathers as much information as possible before any contacts, arrests or interviews. A good investigator has a general game plan on every investigation, but should be prepared to be flexible, since anything can change during an investigation. Investigators are responsible for corroborating evidence and not relying on one person's statements or opinions. Having worked with several Federal Agencies over the years, having an open mind and relying on the evidence is key.