OVM2601
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2025
, Question 1.1: Factors That Assist in Tracing Unknown Suspects (22 Marks)
When a suspect is unidentified, investigators face increased difficulty in solving a case.
However, several investigative tools and strategies can assist in narrowing down
potential suspects and eventually identifying them. These include:
1. Statements from Witnesses
Eyewitnesses often play a critical role in investigations. They may be able to
provide vital information such as the suspect’s physical appearance, clothing,
vehicle details, spoken language, or specific behaviours. These descriptions can
form the basis of suspect sketches and alerts.
2. Modus Operandi (MO)
Criminals frequently follow specific patterns or methods when committing crimes.
By studying how a crime was committed, investigators may identify similarities to
previous incidents, allowing them to link the case to a known offender with a
similar MO.
3. Collection of Physical Evidence
Physical traces left at the crime scene—such as fingerprints, blood, hair, or
shoeprints—can be examined using forensic methods. Such evidence can be
compared with national databases (e.g., DNA or fingerprint databases) to find a
match with known individuals.
4. Use of Surveillance Footage
Video recordings from security cameras in public or private areas can capture
images of the suspect, their vehicle, or movements before, during, or after the
crime. These visuals can be analysed and shared with the public or other
agencies for assistance.
5. Informants and Intelligence Gathering
Information obtained from informants within the community or from intelligence
operations may provide leads on the identity or location of the suspect. These
sources can offer tips that are not available through formal investigative methods.
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2025
, Question 1.1: Factors That Assist in Tracing Unknown Suspects (22 Marks)
When a suspect is unidentified, investigators face increased difficulty in solving a case.
However, several investigative tools and strategies can assist in narrowing down
potential suspects and eventually identifying them. These include:
1. Statements from Witnesses
Eyewitnesses often play a critical role in investigations. They may be able to
provide vital information such as the suspect’s physical appearance, clothing,
vehicle details, spoken language, or specific behaviours. These descriptions can
form the basis of suspect sketches and alerts.
2. Modus Operandi (MO)
Criminals frequently follow specific patterns or methods when committing crimes.
By studying how a crime was committed, investigators may identify similarities to
previous incidents, allowing them to link the case to a known offender with a
similar MO.
3. Collection of Physical Evidence
Physical traces left at the crime scene—such as fingerprints, blood, hair, or
shoeprints—can be examined using forensic methods. Such evidence can be
compared with national databases (e.g., DNA or fingerprint databases) to find a
match with known individuals.
4. Use of Surveillance Footage
Video recordings from security cameras in public or private areas can capture
images of the suspect, their vehicle, or movements before, during, or after the
crime. These visuals can be analysed and shared with the public or other
agencies for assistance.
5. Informants and Intelligence Gathering
Information obtained from informants within the community or from intelligence
operations may provide leads on the identity or location of the suspect. These
sources can offer tips that are not available through formal investigative methods.
