Investigating the Crime
An investigation occurs when the police gather and review evidence and information about a crime or incident so they can figure out what happened. Police use this information to help determine if a criminal offence has been committed and whether or not to recommend to Crown counsel that criminal charges be laid.
Investigations often begin when an incident is reported to police. Police gather evidence and information from the victim, witnesses and others involved. The information is carefully reviewed and police decide what to do next.
Police have many options at this point, including continuing to investigate, closing the case, sending you a letter of caution or recommending charges be laid. If police recommend charges, you could be arrested or sent a document telling you to come to court.More Information
For more information, please visit:
- Investigating the Crime - Understanding Criminal Justice - to learn more about the investigation.
- Your Rights - to learn about your rights as an accused.
- If You are Arrested - to learn about what may happen if you are arrested.
