The Routledge International Handbook of Homicide Investigation will be the first of its kind to bring together research and personal insights from detectives, practitioners, academics and experts internationally on various complexities that are involved in the investigation of homicides. The handbook discusses the challenges faced by homicide detectives especially since not every investigation will demand the same approach. The tools, techniques and expertise required also vary according to the type of homicide that is investigated. This handbook brings these issues and opportunities to the forefront, while also illustrating the wider complexities and emotional impact of homicide investigations on detectives and those bereaved by homicide. Divided into four parts, part one provides chapters that explore homicide investigations across the globe. Parts two and three offer an up-to-date insight into the ever-evolving tools and techniques that are used during a homicide investigation and explore how specific types of homicides are investigated. Part four considers both those directly affected by the homicide and the role of indirect victims in the investigation, including the impact of homicide and its investigation. Chapters also consider some recent developments in a homicide investigation that may shape its future, as well as current issues that are facing homicide detectives. Providing cutting edge research on every step of the criminal homicide investigation process, this handbook is essential reading for scholars, students and practitioners interested in homicide investigation.

Drawing on in-depth research, including interviews with former and serving detectives, this book explores how homicide investigation in England and Wales has changed since the 1980s and the opportunities and challenges that have arisen as a consequence. The investigation of homicide in England and Wales became subject to significant reform in the 1980s, when the inquiry into the Yorkshire Ripper investigation identified numerous failings in how the hunt for Peter Sutcliffe was conducted. These investigations have been subject to criticism and change from that moment onwards. This book explores how change has shaped every facet of these investigations, with four main areas identified: science and technology; legislation, regulation and guidance; investigative practice; and lastly, detective status and culture. The work shows that change has been the result of four primary catalysts: a growing preoccupation with risk, the changing political landscape, reactions to miscarriages of justice and other cases, and advances in science and technology. What has been lost and gained as a result of change is also explored. It has, in many ways, been positive as scientific and technological advances allow investigators to plot an offender's movements and draw a clearer picture of what transpired. However, change has created today's more risk-averse homicide detectives, who must manage the vast amounts of technological information that modern-day investigations now generate. They must also contend with a raft of legislation and guidance that now govern investigations and budget pressures not faced by their predecessors. The book will be a valuable resource for students, researchers and policymakers in the areas of criminal law and procedure, criminal justice, criminology, and policing.