ABSTRACT
The acquisition of facts requires specialized procedures. Doctors, mechanics, detectives-all have methods for obtaining the information necessary to deal with the particular issue confronting them, and have innumerable technical and scientific instruments at their disposal. Although relatively few diagnostic tools address the needs of criminal investigators, change is bringing new technology, and there is no doubt that the future will bring new tools to the investigative function. However, change within the law enforcement environment frequently follows change in the private sector, as well as among criminal elements. Today’s sophisticated criminals are well versed in the use of technology, and investigators must be resourceful, and call on diverse, special capabilities-wider in range and more difficult to apply. In short, though detective work is not easy, the task is greatly assisted by the ability to interview people, cultivate and deal with informants, and learn to adapt in a changing world. Nowhere is this more important than in the ability to collect and analyze records and information, and draw upon interpersonal skills to interview and interrogate.
