Crime analysis charting: An introduction to Visual Investigative Analysis
by Jack P. Morris
Category: Crime analysis

This manual gives step-by-step instructions for developing visual investigative analysis, a technique which uses a network approach to display graphically the sequences of events and the relationships of all elements in a criminal incident. Visual investigative analysis, also known as 'crime analysis charting,' can enhance the operation of the criminal justice system and improve productivity, particularly important results in the face of funding cutbacks. Complex investigations are more easily controlled because commanders of investigative bureaus can better monitor investigators' work. In addition, attorneys and judges can better understand cases. A single analyst charting crime cases can save the criminal justice system thousands of dollars in costs of investigations, prosecutions, and adjudications. Steps in developing a chart include summarizing source material, choosing activities to highlight, and making a visual display showing connections between each crime activity. Injured personnel, student interns, and volunteers can work on charts. Crimes suitable for this technique have one or more of the following characteristics: high complexity, lengthy time frame, and multiple suspects. Diagrams, tables, crime scenarios, and appendixes presenting explanations of each task and sample displays are provided.