Despite what fictional crime dramas portray, violent crimes are never solved by a lone detective or a crime-sleuthing duo. Investigating violent crimes—and specifically homicides—requires extensive teamwork. AMU criminal justice professor Nicole Cain writes about the professionals involved in solving crimes including first responders, detectives, crime scene investigators, forensic scientists, medical examiners and more. Learn more about how these professionals have to work together to solve crimes.
By Nicole Cain
In sexual assault investigations, the primary responsibilities of detectives are the physical and emotional well-being of the victim, the preservation of evidence, and the apprehension of the suspect. Such investigations are challenging because detectives must conduct an in-depth interview with the victim without causing further emotional harm. AMU professor Nicole Cain, a 14-year law enforcement officer, writes about the essential elements of the interview process.
As older officers retire, millennials and post-millennials are needed to fill their positions. However, these younger generations are not as attracted to law enforcement. Learn how agencies must adapt recruiting and hiring efforts, leadership styles, and policies.
Law enforcement agencies must transform their proactive recruiting strategies to attract desirable candidates from all backgrounds.
Law enforcement leaders should use proactive hiring practices like creating a hiring unit to boost the number of officers entering the field.
By Jinnie Chua
Balancing work and family over the holiday season can be difficult for police officers. If you’re scheduled to work over the holidays, don’t forget that there are many opportunities to enjoy the festive season with your co-workers and your family.
Police respond to a variety of difficult events, which can create a roller coaster of emotions. Research shows that officers who don’t manage their stress are prone to burnout, poor judgment, substance abuse, divorce, and suicide. Here are ways officers can look after their physical and mental health.
Being a police officer has never been easy, but recent events have made it even more difficult to be an officer. Incidents like Ferguson and Baltimore have put officers and agencies under severe public scrutiny. These highly publicized events have served as a wake-up call for many agencies to enhance officer training, improve policies and procedures, and revitalize community relations.
The public cannot let these events overshadow the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice made by our nation’s law enforcement officers. May 10-16 is National Police Week 2015, a time to show gratitude for those officers who died on the job. It is also a time to thank current officers who continue to dedicate their lives to protecting our communities.
In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, American Military University (AMU) faculty and staff members who have extensive careers and expertise in law enforcement will share research as well as first-hand experiences regarding investigative practices. The goal is to help agencies and officers across the country ensure that those who commit sexual crimes are held accountable.