National Case Closed Project | Flow Model: Agency and Investigative Factors Leading to Case Clearance

FLOW MODEL: AGENCY AND INVESTIGATIVE FACTORS LEADING TO CASE CLEARANCE

This interactive model is designed to highlight agency-level, investigative unit-level, and individual investigator-level factors that are more likely to lead to a case closure. Sources for this information include empirical research articles, private and public resources toolkits, and input from subject matter experts.

INSTRUCTIONS: This flow model should be read left to right, with factors listed under Stage 1 making factors listed under Stage 2 more likely to occur, in turn making the outcome listed under Stage 3 more likely to occur. Click the underlined links beneath the BOLDED categories to learn more. A box will appear below the model with additional information.

Stage 1

PRE-INVESTIGATIVE

Agency Factors

Investigative Unit Factors

Stage 2

INVESTIGATIVE

Stage 3

CASE CLEARED

By Arrest or Exceptional Means

Investigative Unit Factors: Supervision

Train investigators on and encourage the use of data and technology in investigations to include:

Vehicle location data
Cell phone communications
Cell phone location data
Social media data
Social network data
Audiovisual evidence

Maintain an effective supervisor-to-investigator ratio

Maintain appropriate investigative caseload

Staff effective supervisors by:

Ensuring supervisors have experience or advanced training in investigations
Limiting responsibilities of supervisors to direct supervision of investigators

Implement specific and clear investigative policies and practices to include:

Structured and supportive supervision
Regular performance reviews
Case file standards and routine reviews
Focus on data and intelligence to support decision making, program, and policies
Promote communication/coordination within and outside unit

Ensure a swift and robust response to crime scenes

Motivate investigators and ensure high levels of job satisfaction

Funding Support

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