What is the primary goal of a criminal investigation?

The primary goal of a criminal investigation is to search for the truth. This overarching aim guides the investigation process and ensures that law enforcement officers work towards uncovering the facts of a case. By focusing on the truth, investigators can establish a clear understanding of what has occurred, including identifying the circumstances surrounding the crime, the individuals involved, and the evidence that corroborates or contradicts various claims.

This focus on uncovering the truth helps in ensuring that the investigation is thorough and unbiased, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of all available information. It enables officers to follow leads, gather evidence, and interview witnesses effectively while remaining impartial.

While other objectives, such as arresting a suspect or presenting evidence in court, are key components of the criminal justice process, they are secondary to the goal of discovering the truth. Arrests can be made based on evidence found during the quest for the truth, and evidence presented in court hinges on the accurate understanding of what occurred during the investigation. Thus, by prioritizing the search for the truth, a criminal investigation serves its ultimate purpose of seeking justice and ensuring that the legal process is upheld.