When a crime is committed, police officers respond quickly to the scene. First-arriving officers complete a primary assessment of the environment to protect the safety of witnesses and potential suspects. They also collect physical items to preserve and document them as evidence. This can be challenging, because a variety of factors can destroy trace evidence, such as fingerprints or DNA. The police use a variety of techniques to collect and test physical evidence in their crime laboratories.
They interview witnesses and suspects, but they also review other information to identify patterns and possible motives. Detectives may use electronic surveillance to gather data or even go undercover to gain access to private property and individuals. In addition, they use interviews and interrogations to elicit confessions. The interrogation process is delicate, and police must ensure that they follow legal guidelines – particularly the Fourth Amendment on permissible search and seizure.
The detectives compile all of their direct evidence and reports into a file for the prosecution. Prosecutors review this file to decide whether to press formal charges. If a case goes to trial, prosecutors will present the evidence at a criminal hearing.
If the evidence is compelling, the suspect will be arrested. However, a Charlotte criminal defense lawyer can prepare an effective strategy to defend against the allegations. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you. Our firm has extensive experience representing clients in both state and federal court cases.