Effective Police Homicide Investigations: Evidence From Seven Cities With High Clearance Rates. (May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carter, David L.; Carter, Jeremy G.
• Is Part Of: Homicide studies. Volume 20:Number 2(2016:May)
• Page Start: 150
• Page End: 176
• Publication Date: 2016-05
• Subjects: homicide clearance rate -- investigations -- analysis -- community policing; Homicide -- Periodicals; 364.152
• DOI: 10.1177/1088767915576996
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1088-7679

Abstract

At present, the average homicide clearance rate in the United States is approximately 65%, down roughly 15% from the mid-1970s. This research seeks to inform how police can best improve homicide clearance rates by identifying best practices in homicide investigations. To accomplish this goal, as part of a federally funded project, seven geographically representative law enforcement agencies were identified that had at least 24 homicides in 2011 and had a clearance rate of 80% or higher from which effective investigative practices could be gleaned. Qualitative findings indicate that a strong community policing presence, collaboration with external agencies, and an innovative culture facilitate high rates of homicide clearance. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.