After reading this chapter you will be able to:

1.1 Define the criminal investigation process, criminal evidence, and forensic science.
1.2 Identify two different types of criminal investigations (reactive, undercover).
1.3 Discuss a criminal investigation as a battle, as a game, as a puzzle, and as a maze.
1.4 Describe the various mental mistakes that could be made in criminal investigations and identify the important qualities and characteristics of investigators.
1.5 Explain the role of criminal investigations in the criminal justice process.