The updated edition of this introductory text thoroughly explores all of the important rules dealing with the use of evidence in criminal proceeding. The author uses extensive case analyses and samples of testimony from actual cross-examinations to simplify even the most technical and arcane evidence rules. Difficult topics such as the use of hearsay evidence are covered, along with the latest Supreme Court decisions on evidence admissibility and the protection of civil rights. The book is written in jargon-free language, avoiding legalese" as it is intended for the general reader. New material includes an appendix of the complete text of the Federal Rules of Evidence, now adopted in most states."

The manner in which criminal investigators are trained is neither uniform nor consistent, ranging from sophisticated training protocols in some departments to on-the-job experience alongside senior investigators in others. Ideal for students taking a first course in the subject as well as professionals in need of a refresher, Introduction to Criminal Investigation uses an accessible format to convey concepts in practical, concrete terms. Topics discussed include: The history of criminal investigation in Western society Qualifications for becoming an investigator, the selection process, and ideal training requirements Crime scene search techniques, including planning and post-search debriefing Preparing effective field notes and investigative reports Interviewing and interrogating Types of evidence found at the crime scene and how to collect, package, and preserve it The contributions of forensic science to criminal investigations and the equipment used in crime labs Investigative protocol for a range of crimes, including property crimes, auto theft, arson, financial crimes, homicide, assault, sex crimes, and robbery Specialized investigations, including drug trafficking, cybercrime, and gang-related crime Legal issues involved in criminal investigations and preparing a case for trial Bringing together contributions from law enforcement personnel, academics, and attorneys, the book combines practical and theoretical elements to provide a comprehensive examination of today‘s criminal investigative process. The accessible manner in which the information is conveyed makes this an ideal text for a wide-ranging audience.

Criminal Evidence is a well-respected and trusted introduction to the rules of criminal evidence for criminal justice students and professionals. The first half of this book follows the Federal Rules of Evidence in its explanation of how evidence is collected, preserved, and presented in criminal court. The second half provides a selection of relevant criminal court cases that reinforce these basics and provide the context of how these rules are currently practiced. Readers will have an understanding of how concepts of evidence operate to convict the guilty and acquit the innocent. Part of the John C. Klotter Justice Administration Legal Series, this twelfth edition provides many updates, new references to recent cases, and a current version of the Federal Rules of Evidence. Student aids include chapter outlines, key terms and concepts lists, a glossary, a table of cases cited, and online interactive case studies. Teacher resources include Instructor’s Guide, test bank, and PowerPoint slides. Thoroughly revised, updated, and streamlined to include recent case law on evidence Each chapter includes outlines, key terms and concepts, and review questions to aid understanding Appendices include a helpful glossary; Federal Rules of Evidence as amended and effective through December 1, 2013; Table of Jurisdictions That Have Adopted Some System of Uniform Rules for Regulating the Admission and Exclusion of Evidence through 2014; and Table of Contents of the Uniform Rules of Evidence with 2005 Amendments

With lucid text, four-color illustrations, and abundant examples, Criminal Evidence follows the path of evidence From Crime Scene to Courtroom. Focusing on the Federal Rules of Evidence and their state counterparts, Derek Regensburger offers a clear introduction to the principles of evidence and instructions for collecting, preserving, and presenting evidence in a criminal case. The book surveys the major concepts of evidence law such as relevance and burden of proof, discovery, admission of expert witness testimony, impeachment of witnesses, character evidence, hearsay, authentication of physical evidence, and more. Actual trials and news excerpts bring the material to life as they illustrate the role of evidence in real cases. Videos of mock trial scenes on the book’s website reinforce students’ understanding of key concepts. New to the Third Edition: A new chapter on trial practice and witness preparation Streamlined discussions of the exclusionary rule, Miranda rights, and rape shield laws Updated material on eyewitness identification and admission of confessions, particularly the modification of the corpus delicti rule by many state courts Changes concerning the reliability of forensic evidence due to the release of the 2016 report on the issue authored by the President’s Council on Science and Technology, including the FBI’s rejoinder to that report New and expanded sections on bloodstain pattern analysis, arson investigation, and handwriting analysis New and updated practical examples and Evidence in Action articles to feature more recent events, including the Kyle Rittenhouse trial Professors and students will benefit from: Straightforward text that follows the evidence from collection to trial Accessible three-part organization I. The Collection and Preservation of Evidence II. Pretrial Matters III. Admissibility of Evidence Four-color photographs and exhibits that illustrate evidentiary concepts Evidence in Action, observed in real trials and news excerpts Practical examples that apply legal concepts through hypothetical scenarios Review questions and application problems at the end of each chapter test students’ mastery of the material Short mock trial scenes on the companion website that illustrate key concepts discussed in the text

Understanding Criminal Evidence is a carefully designed undergraduate text featuring a case-method approach and focused solely on criminal evidence. Learning the rules from case analysis allows students to apply the material to real world situations, fostering an understanding of the Rules of Evidence. Solid pedagogy makes the material more accessible than a traditional law school casebook text and features end-of-chapter review questions and key terms. Each chapter has a major introductory case that highlights the evidentiary issues. Several sub-cases in chap every chapter illustrate the ramifications of the rules. Trial transcripts and real world problems help students apply the rules to real situations they may face in practice. Features: Case-method approach to criminal evidence Case analysis methodology students apply the rules to the real world and to real life Features a traditional approach material designed specifically for undergraduates focused solely on criminal evidence Sound pedagogy end-of-chapter review questions key terms material more accessible than a traditional law school casebooks Cases in each chapter one major introductory case highlighting evidentiary issues several sub-cases illustrating ramifications of the rules Trial transcripts and real world problems help students apply the rules

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