How the Police Conduct Criminal Investigations Before Arrest

Before taking someone into custody, the police must determine if they can establish probable cause that the person committed a crime. Under the Fourth Amendment, they must have evidence that reasonably demonstrates the suspect committed a criminal offense in order to arrest them. They may need to conduct a pre-arrest criminal investigation to establish probable cause to make an arrest.

If you are a suspect in a criminal investigation or are facing criminal charges, it can be helpful to understand how the police and prosecutor conduct these investigations. It can help you know what to expect in your case and may assist in developing a defense strategy to fight the charges if you are arrested.

How the Police Perform Criminal Investigations

The scope of a criminal investigation can vary depending on the type of criminal activity being investigated. In some cases, such as reckless driving charges, a fight at a bar or other location, or domestic violence, the police may not need to conduct any investigation other than at the scene before arresting someone.

Similarly, the length of time the police will engage in a pre-arrest investigation will depend on the seriousness and complexity of the crime. Some can take days, weeks, or a year or more to complete. Here are some ways that law enforcement officials and prosecutors conduct an investigation before making an arrest.

Collecting Physical Evidence

One way that the police can build a case against a suspect is through the collection of physical evidence. A detective trained in how to investigate more serious crimes could be assigned to the case. They could go to the crime scene to look for physical evidence, such as a weapon, bloodstains, fibers, footprints, fingerprints, and more. They may take photographs and measurements or send certain samples, such as blood samples or fibers, to a lab for testing.

The police must properly collect and preserve the evidence they obtain in a criminal investigation. If they do not follow required procedures, the evidence could become contaminated or otherwise not be considered valid and may be ruled inadmissible in a criminal case.

Conducting Interviews

Another pre-arrest investigative tool the police could employ is to interview the victim of the alleged crime and witnesses. They would speak to anyone that they believe has helpful information, which could include a suspect’s co-workers, family, friends, and neighbors.

Detectives could also bring in a suspect for questioning. Unless the individual is in custody, law enforcement officials do not have to give them their Miranda warnings and can use any statements made against the accused. 

Engaging in Surveillance

Depending on the crime being investigated, a team of detectives or police officers could engage in surveillance of a suspect or others who could have useful information. They may engage in surveillance at various times in an investigation.

Searching Social Media and Other Records

Detectives could also search a person’s social media sites or other websites where individuals discuss potential crimes with others for evidence that a crime was or is about to be committed. They may also obtain a warrant to get an individual’s cell phone, financial, or other records from businesses or other parties.

Going Undercover

Law enforcement officials sometimes go undercover as part of their investigation of a possible crime. This is not uncommon in drug offense, pornography, or other serious felony investigations.

What Should You Do If You Are a Suspect in a Pre-Arrest Investigation?

If you learn that you are being investigated as a suspect, you need to take immediate steps to protect yourself. If you are innocent, do not make the mistake of believing that if you cooperate with the police that no charges will be brought against you. You should take these steps:

• Unless you have been arrested, you have a right to leave if you are brought in for questioning and should exercise this right.
• Do not agree to a search unless the police have a warrant. You are protected from unreasonable searches and seizures of your property and you under the Fourth Amendment.
• Do not speak to the police without a lawyer being present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
• Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. A lawyer can protect your legal rights and build a strong defense if you are arrested. They may also be able to help you avoid criminal charges being filed against you.

How a Lawyer Can Help You During a Pre-Arrest Investigation

Many people do not realize that they can hire a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney before their arrest. However, this can be very beneficial to you. Ways that a lawyer can assist you at this stage include:

• Conduct an investigation. Your attorney can conduct their own investigation, which can include reviewing the police’s evidence against you, interviewing witnesses, researching applicable laws, and hiring expert witnesses.
• Prevent your arrest. Depending on the crime you are suspected of committing and law enforcement’s evidence against you, your attorney may be able to discuss your case with the police and prosecutor and convince them not to pursue charges against you.
• Help you surrender. If the police obtain a warrant for your arrest, a lawyer can advise you on what to expect when you are arrested and help you surrender. They can also assist you in obtaining bail so that you are released from jail while your criminal case is being decided.
• Be present when you’re questioned. Your lawyer can be present anytime the police are interrogating you.
• Enforce your constitutional rights. You have many constitutional rights, such as the right to remain silent, in a criminal case. Your attorney can enforce your constitutional rights to protect you and to ensure that evidence illegally obtained is not used against you.

Are You Looking for a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Charlotte, NC?

If you are facing criminal charges, you need to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Charlotte office directly at 980.207.3355 to schedule your free consultation.