An essay of 6 spaced, typed pages is required. Read Trace Evidence thoroughly and evaluate the overall conduct of the investigation. Although this will require you to give an overview of events with enough detail to allow the reader to understand them, do not try and retell the entire book. Focus on the investigation. What were the key events that changed the course of the investigation? How well did the book conform to procedures as covered in class? What other issues, besides investigative techniques, influences the outcome of a criminal investigation? What insights does the book give you that a text does not? Cite specific examples from the book or class to support your position. You will probably find it helpful to construct a time line of key events. It can also prove useful to develop an overriding theme that allows you to talk about the process of investigation using the book as a tool. Examples of themes might be the influence of fragmented jurisdiction on the case, why the nature of the crimes delayed solution or how subsequent developments in forensic science might have altered the events.

I will be looking for insight and understanding of the investigative process as it occurs in the real world as demonstrated by this case. Use the book as a source and write your own essay. Extensive quotes are seldom useful; a simple reference to the event will suffice. Focus on what affected the investigation and how. If the suspect’s actions changed the course of the investigation, cover it; but do not dwell on suspect. Although I have read the book, write the essay as though I have not. You are explaining the investigation to a person who understands investigation but does not know this investigation. As you write keep in mind: who, what, why, where, when and how.

I recommend that you read Trace Evidence as early in the semester as possible. It is an enjoyable read and will raise questions that you can address in class. This will also allow you to get started on your paper earlier. The essay should begin with an introductory paragraph which allows the reader to understand the focus of the essay, then lays out the key points to follow. This can be done by implication and without using the first person. Later paragraphs should expand on this theme and these key points with support in logic or citations to the book or class. You do not have to conduct independent research. If you finish your paper early, I will critique it and return it. This usually results in an improvement in the grade. Please review what you have read before you submit it. If possible, get someone else to read it also. First drafts are never your best effort. Your grade will depend on both the quality of your writing, the organization of the paper and your insight and analysis.

BOOK REQUIRED: Criminal Investigation, 10th or 11th Ed, McGraw-Hill