detectiefase

The detectiefase is the initial phase in a criminal investigation dedicated to detecting that a crime has occurred and laying the factual groundwork for further inquiry. It is sometimes described as the detection or intake phase of the investigation.

It begins when a crime is reported or discovered and ends when sufficient information exists to decide whether to launch a full investigation or continue with a targeted inquiry. Activities include securing and surveying the crime scene, preserving evidence, collecting preliminary information, and identifying potential witnesses and victims.

Investigators perform interviews, check alibis, review surveillance footage, and gather physical and digital evidence. The aims are to establish what happened, where, when, and by whom, and to generate leads for the subsequent stages.

The detectiefase relies on rapid decision-making, coordination with forensic teams and prosecutors, and maintaining the chain of custody for evidence. It faces challenges such as incomplete information, safety risks, and the need to avoid contamination of evidence or bias.

The results of the detectiefase influence whether a case proceeds to a formal investigation, an administrative review, or closure. It is part of the broader criminal-justice process and is followed by more extensive investigative work in many organizational workflows.