Assignment:
Response should be 250 words with 2 references
Computer databases and information networks used to be local systems that not everyone could access. With the update in technology over the recent years, they both prove to be beneficial when conducting criminal investigations. As we have been talking about the various systems used by local, state, and federal law enforcement - Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and National DNA Index System (NDIS) - both have proven to be helpful when running tests and making sure it is documented for DNA, fingerprints, saliva, etc. (FBI, 2016).
Computer databases are helpful with investigations, because those systems are interlinked on a federal level. Information systems are helpful to criminal investigations, because they are the ones that store DNA, conviction hits, fingerprints and any forensic evidence of a crime at a level that once another crime is potentially committed with those connecting elements, then a suspect is better narrowed down and possibly connected to multiple crimes (Purdue University Global, 2018). Both computer databases and information networks are also very important in criminal investigations that involve cybercrime, because the rise in more computer based cybercrimes, the need to stay up to date on these systems to track down criminals who do not really leave physical evidence at a scene. Cyber criminals can live in different countries making investigations even more difficult to close. Computer databases and information networks are a turn in the way investigations are done.
Criminal mapping and geospatial technology are just as important when conducting investigations and getting a feel for the area prior to going to a current crime scene or in an effort to make sure the area is a little more police heavy prior to criminal activities happening (or at least not as many crimes happening because of the deterrence). According to Ogeto, crime mapping is a tool used to identify and highlight suspicious incidents and events that may require further investigation. What this means is that this map shows the hot spots where typical crime happens and it can be narrowed down to more specific crimes as opposed to lots of crime in a particular area just in general. Auto theft investigations are something that can be hard to close as car parts can be chopped, sold, taken out, etc. and you just will not ever find the vehicle. Due to this fact, it is easier to Crime map an area where this typically happens and use preventative measures to lessen that type of crime in that area. When it comes to crime mapping and burglary, this can help investigators understand the area (I.e, rich/poor neighborhood).
Crime mapping can also help investigators come up with profiles of the criminals that could better lead to a suspect being taken in (Ogeto, n.d.). Crime mapping can be used in a practical sense and from a statistical stance therefore crime mapping is a tool that is very useful to investigators in the field and from politicians and higher up management in the city.