Criminal Investigation: The Art and the Science : Book Review

"Criminal Investigation" by Michael D. Lyman offers a comprehensive and insightful guide to the world of criminal investigation. This book is a valuable resource for individuals aspiring to become detectives, law enforcement professionals, or simply those interested in the field of criminal investigation.

Author Michael D. Lyman brings his extensive experience as a police officer and criminal justice educator to provide a well-rounded and authoritative account of the investigation process. From crime scene management to interviewing techniques, Lyman covers a wide range of topics.

One standout feature of the book is its practical approach. Lyman incorporates real-world examples, case studies, and suggested exercises to help readers apply the knowledge they have gained. This hands-on approach not only enhances learning but also provides valuable insights into the challenges and complexities of criminal investigations.

Lyman delves into various types of investigations, including property crimes, violent crimes, and drug offenses, providing detailed explanations of the methods and techniques used in each type of investigation. This ensures that readers develop a comprehensive understanding of the different approaches required for different crimes.

In addition to technical aspects, the book also addresses the importance of ethical conduct and safeguards against biases. Lyman highlights the ethical dilemmas investigators often face and offers guidance on navigating these complex issues with integrity. This emphasis on ethics promotes responsible and effective investigative practices.

What are readers saying?

The book "Criminal Investigation" by Michael D. Lyman has received a mixed reception from readers. While many praise its comprehensive coverage of various topics related to criminal investigation, some found the writing style to be dry and overly technical, making it difficult to engage with the material.

Numerous reviewers did, however, appreciate the book's value as a resource for individuals studying or working in law enforcement. They found the explanations of investigative techniques, crime scene processing, and the use of technology to be thorough and informative. Furthermore, the book was commended for its in-depth discussions on legal considerations and the challenges faced by investigators in gathering evidence.

On the other hand, a few readers found the book to be overly academic and lacking practical examples. They felt that the author's formal and technical writing style made the content less accessible to general readers. Additionally, some noted that certain sections of the book seemed outdated, particularly regarding evolving forensic science techniques and investigative procedures.

Nevertheless, many readers appreciated the book's organization and structure. The inclusion of chapter summaries and review questions was considered helpful for studying and reinforcing the concepts covered. The author was also praised for their extensive research, evident through the inclusion of numerous references and sources.

In summary, "Criminal Investigation" is widely regarded as a comprehensive resource for individuals interested in the subject, especially those in law enforcement or studying criminal justice. However, it may not be the most engaging read for casual readers and could benefit from updates and a more reader-friendly writing style to improve its accessibility.

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