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7
1
K๐ฉท
13/12/2025
Criminology
AC1.1 Unit 3
755
โข
13 Dec 2025
โข
Understanding the Roles in Criminal Investigations
K๐ฉท
@kstudies
1 / 3
Police Officers: First Responders on the Scene
Police officers are your first line of defence when crimes occur, and they don't need specific qualifications to start - just relevant experience helps. Working 37-40 hours weekly for ยฃ21,000-ยฃ41,500 annually, they're the ones who rush to preserve life and secure crime scenes during that crucial golden hour when evidence is freshest.
Their main job involves safeguarding the public, helping injured people, and immediately securing the crime scene to protect vital evidence. They'll also take initial statements from witnesses and victims, recording everything in notebooks that become part of the case file.
However, police officers face significant limitations that can seriously impact cases. Without proper training, they might contaminate evidence accidentally, weakening or even destroying entire cases. Public trust issues also plague the profession, particularly after high-profile failures in domestic abuse cases and incidents like the Stephen Lawrence case.
Key Point: The Stephen Lawrence case showed how police bias and racism led to evidence being overlooked for 21 years, including a crucial bag strap that was actually used as a weapon.
SOCOs: The Evidence Collectors
Scene of Crime Officers (SOCOs) are the specialists who collect and process evidence while keeping everything uncontaminated - because contaminated evidence gets thrown out of court completely. They typically need degrees in forensic science and earn ยฃ16,000-ยฃ35,000 for about 42 hours weekly.
SOCOs photograph everything at crime scenes, from footprints to weapons to victim injuries. They recover both physical evidence (like clothing fibres) and biological evidence (such as bodily fluids and fingerprints), then package everything properly to prevent contamination.
Their major strength is working on-call systems, meaning they're always available for investigations. Years of specialised training and protective equipment significantly reduce contamination risks. However, they face serious challenges including mental stress from witnessing gruesome scenes, potential PTSD, and exposure to hazardous materials.
The Meredith Kercher case perfectly illustrates what goes wrong - SOCOs didn't wear proper protective equipment, including shoe covers, making all their evidence unreliable in court and leading to Amanda Knox's eventual acquittal.
Reality Check: SOCO work involves significant burnout risk due to low pay, short-notice callouts, and exposure to traumatic crime scenes.
Forensic Scientists and Pathologists: The Expert Analysts
Forensic scientists use expert knowledge to interpret evidence correctly, requiring science degrees and laboratory experience. Earning ยฃ18,000-ยฃ45,000 for standard 37-40 hour weeks, they analyse DNA samples, compare them to suspects, and write detailed reports for court proceedings.
Their expertise proves invaluable in complex cases, helping identify victims and eliminate innocent suspects. As expert witnesses, they present crucial evidence to juries using their specialised knowledge. However, disagreements between forensic scientists can confuse juries when prosecution and defence experts have different opinions.
Pathologists specialise in determining causes of death through post-mortem examinations. With science degrees plus years of medical training, they earn ยฃ40,257-ยฃ84,559 annually and work on-call to provide 24/7 police support.
They perform detailed body examinations, inspect organs, and analyse tissue samples to determine exactly how, when, and why someone died. Yet the UK faces a shortage of qualified pathologists due to extensive training requirements, leading to overwork and potential human error.
Sobering Example: The Sally Clark case shows the devastating impact of expert errors - she was wrongfully convicted of murdering her children who actually died from SIDS, leading to her eventual death from alcoholism after release.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding the Roles in Criminal Investigations
K๐ฉท
@kstudies
Ever wondered who actually solves crimes beyond what you see on TV? From the moment a crime is reported, a whole team of specialists jump into action - each with their own crucial role and unique challenges. Understanding how police... Show more
Police Officers: First Responders on the Scene
Police officers are your first line of defence when crimes occur, and they don't need specific qualifications to start - just relevant experience helps. Working 37-40 hours weekly for ยฃ21,000-ยฃ41,500 annually, they're the ones who rush to preserve life and secure crime scenes during that crucial golden hour when evidence is freshest.
Their main job involves safeguarding the public, helping injured people, and immediately securing the crime scene to protect vital evidence. They'll also take initial statements from witnesses and victims, recording everything in notebooks that become part of the case file.
However, police officers face significant limitations that can seriously impact cases. Without proper training, they might contaminate evidence accidentally, weakening or even destroying entire cases. Public trust issues also plague the profession, particularly after high-profile failures in domestic abuse cases and incidents like the Stephen Lawrence case.
Key Point: The Stephen Lawrence case showed how police bias and racism led to evidence being overlooked for 21 years, including a crucial bag strap that was actually used as a weapon.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
SOCOs: The Evidence Collectors
Scene of Crime Officers (SOCOs) are the specialists who collect and process evidence while keeping everything uncontaminated - because contaminated evidence gets thrown out of court completely. They typically need degrees in forensic science and earn ยฃ16,000-ยฃ35,000 for about 42 hours weekly.
SOCOs photograph everything at crime scenes, from footprints to weapons to victim injuries. They recover both physical evidence (like clothing fibres) and biological evidence (such as bodily fluids and fingerprints), then package everything properly to prevent contamination.
Their major strength is working on-call systems, meaning they're always available for investigations. Years of specialised training and protective equipment significantly reduce contamination risks. However, they face serious challenges including mental stress from witnessing gruesome scenes, potential PTSD, and exposure to hazardous materials.
The Meredith Kercher case perfectly illustrates what goes wrong - SOCOs didn't wear proper protective equipment, including shoe covers, making all their evidence unreliable in court and leading to Amanda Knox's eventual acquittal.
Reality Check: SOCO work involves significant burnout risk due to low pay, short-notice callouts, and exposure to traumatic crime scenes.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Forensic Scientists and Pathologists: The Expert Analysts
Forensic scientists use expert knowledge to interpret evidence correctly, requiring science degrees and laboratory experience. Earning ยฃ18,000-ยฃ45,000 for standard 37-40 hour weeks, they analyse DNA samples, compare them to suspects, and write detailed reports for court proceedings.
Their expertise proves invaluable in complex cases, helping identify victims and eliminate innocent suspects. As expert witnesses, they present crucial evidence to juries using their specialised knowledge. However, disagreements between forensic scientists can confuse juries when prosecution and defence experts have different opinions.
Pathologists specialise in determining causes of death through post-mortem examinations. With science degrees plus years of medical training, they earn ยฃ40,257-ยฃ84,559 annually and work on-call to provide 24/7 police support.
They perform detailed body examinations, inspect organs, and analyse tissue samples to determine exactly how, when, and why someone died. Yet the UK faces a shortage of qualified pathologists due to extensive training requirements, leading to overwork and potential human error.
Sobering Example: The Sally Clark case shows the devastating impact of expert errors - she was wrongfully convicted of murdering her children who actually died from SIDS, leading to her eventual death from alcoholism after release.
We thought youโd never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: Criminology
Most popular content in Criminology
Most popular content
English - inspector calls quotes and analysis
Quotes from every main character
English Literature10
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us โ and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because itโs too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโt even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโm sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐๐๐ฒ๐ค๐โจ๐๐ฎ
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user