Courtney's Criminology EHS paper 2

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School

CUNY Kingsborough Community College *

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Course

1200

Subject

Sociology

Date

May 12, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

5

Uploaded by francescaphilogene on coursehero.com

Courtney Esdaile The Role of a Police Detective and Applying Criminology Theories in the Workplace Criminology EHS
The Role of a Police Detective and Applying Criminology Theories in the Workplace A police detective, also called a criminal investigator, is a sworn law enforcement professional who investigates felony (and sometimes misdemeanor) crimes. Criminal investigators conduct investigations, gather evidence, and build and prepare cases to help prosecutors get a conviction, and often even testify in court themselves. Police detectives play a vital role in the criminal justice system, investigating crimes within their communities. Their responsibilities involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reconstructing crime scenes (How to Become a Detective, 2021). This research paper will explore how understanding criminological theories can significantly assist police detectives. Specifically, we will discuss the impact of biological and psychological theories on the effectiveness and efficiency of their investigations. Description of the Role A police detective's primary responsibility is to investigate crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. They conduct thorough investigations, gather and analyze evidence, and work closely with other law enforcement agencies. Detectives must possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to think critically. They must also maintain composure under pressure and handle confidential information (Police and Detectives : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Detectives must also be able to communicate effectively with victims and witnesses. They must be able to build strong relationships and maintain a professional demeanor. Finally, detectives must be able and willing to take the initiative and work long hours when needed.
The Importance of Understanding Criminology Theories Understanding criminological theories can greatly assist police detectives in their work. Detectives can develop more effective strategies to prevent and solve crimes by understanding the factors that contribute to criminal behavior. By incorporating theories such as biological and psychological factors into their investigations, detectives can gain a deeper understanding of offenders' motivations and decision-making processes. This knowledge allows them to develop more effective investigative techniques and make more informed decisions during investigations (Excel High School, 2022).  Biological Theories One prominent theory in criminology is the biological perspective, which suggests that biological factors partly influence criminal behavior. This theory suggests that specific biological characteristics, such as genetic predispositions or brain abnormalities, can contribute to criminal behavior. By incorporating biological theories into their investigations, police detectives can gain valuable insights into certain criminal behavior patterns. For instance, if a suspect exhibits neurological abnormalities, detectives may explore potential connections between these factors and the offense. Understanding biological theories can help detectives identify potential suspects and develop targeted strategies (Excel High School, 2022).  Psychological Theories Psychological theories also play a significant role in criminal investigations. These theories focus on the role of psychological factors, such as personality, motivation, and decision- making, in criminal behavior. By understanding the psychological makeup of offenders,
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