Investigator Desk

Step-by-step checklist for opening a new investigation — scene response, notifications, documentation, and initial lead development.

Structured framework for reviewing an inherited or stalled case — identifying gaps, re-evaluating evidence, and developing a reinvestigation plan.

Chronological timeline template for mapping events, witness contacts, and investigative actions across the life of a case.

Critical actions for the initial response to a homicide scene — notifications, scene security, evidence preservation, and witness identification.

Structured worksheet for documenting victim background, lifestyle, relationships, and risk factors to guide suspect development.

Tracking matrix for managing leads, witnesses, and investigative actions — status, priority, and follow-up assignments.

Structured format for documenting and comparing suspect information, alibi status, physical evidence connections, and elimination criteria.

Inventory and tracking tool for physical, digital, and testimonial evidence — chain of custody, lab status, and case relevance.

Worksheet for developing and stress-testing the investigative theory — documenting the theory, supporting evidence, and alternative explanations.

Pre-warrant checklist covering probable cause documentation, scope definition, evidence to be seized, and coordination with prosecutors.

Reference guide for investigators seeking digital evidence — legal process types, provider requirements, and preservation steps.

Reference materials for investigators working with CSLI, call detail records, and tower analysis — including post-Carpenter legal requirements.

Structured triage tool for evaluating cold cases — assessing solvability factors, available evidence, and reinvestigation priorities.

Framework for conducting a systematic cold case review — evidence re-examination, witness re-contact strategy, and new technology assessment.

Step-by-step guide for entering and maintaining cases in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System.

Checklist for preparing a case for prosecutorial review — evidence organization, witness summaries, legal issues, and case theory documentation.

Structured checklist for organizing case materials for trial — evidence inventory, witness list, and exhibit preparation.

Guidance for investigators managing communication with victim families — notification protocols, ongoing contact, and referral resources.

Reference for investigators and supervisors managing media inquiries during active investigations — what to release, what to protect, and coordination with PIOs.

Comprehensive reference for investigators seeking digital evidence — legal process types, provider requirements, and preservation steps.

Reference materials for CSLI, call detail records, and tower analysis — including post-Carpenter legal requirements.

Reference guide for investigators working with mobile device evidence — extraction methods, legal requirements, and chain of custody.

Guide to obtaining cloud-stored evidence — provider-specific legal process requirements and preservation steps.

Quick-reference card for the PEACE interview framework — Preparation, Engage & Explain, Account, Closure, Evaluation.

Pre-interview checklist for applying cognitive interview techniques with witnesses and victims.

Structured template for documenting investigative interviews — attendees, advisements, statement summary, and follow-up actions.