ABSTRACT

Depending on the political climate, creating a cold case squad can be a very difficult and challenging task. In this chapter, while outlining the steps others have taken, we hope to provide the reader with some sound advice and approaches. There is no perfect way to do this because each department, jurisdiction, and crime and demographics in that jurisdiction are going to be different. What works in Baltimore, Maryland, may not work in Atlanta, Georgia. But the concepts and goals of the squad will remain the same regardless of the location. As these concepts are presented, keep in mind that your goal is to obtain a conviction, not just make an arrest.