Murder Investigation (Module: Criminal Justice and Policing) - Uncovering the truth behind modern policing processes and investigation methods [Image credits - flickr.com /hashir /h3nr0 /ariii]

Find out more about this module and the activity by reading the full interview with Dr Lisa O'Malley (module lecturer) and comments from Marie, a student on the module.

Dr Lisa O'Malley with students in the Murder Investigation session

About the module and activity

The module 'Criminal Justice and Policing' looks at policing in a contemporary context, in particular the relationship between the police and the criminal justice system. Whilst predominantly focussing on England and Wales, students explore police systems in Brazil, France, Mexico and the USA to get a sense of how police forces have evolved in different kinds of societies.

The Murder Investigation activity invites students to look at the processes involved in modern policing in an engaging and interactive way. Through the activity, students gain a better understanding of how investigations work, the importance of relationships with other organisations (such as Forensic Science Service and the media), the policy implications and ethics which underpin police investigative procedures.

Two students discussing the latest case documents

Elements of the activity

The activity uses material from three, real-life, murder investigations. In addition, students also have access to the ACPO Murder Investigation Manual, used by police officers.

The components of the module and activity include:

  • International comparative statistics about homicide
  • Data about the perpetrators of homicide
  • Management and organisation of investigations
  • Profiling offenders
  • Relationship with the media
  • Evidence and forensic science
  • Interviews, regulations and ethics

 

Find out more about the degree programmes that offer this module: