5.6 Summary

Investigative reconstruction provides a methodology for gaining a better understanding of a crime and focusing an investigation. Great clarity can emerge from objectively reviewing available evidence, performing temporal, relational, and functional analyses, and studying the victims and crime scenes. Although investigative reconstruction is an involved process, it can save time and effort in the long run by focusing an investigation from the outset. Furthermore, in many cases, a Threshold Assessment is sufficient, requiring less time than a full investigative reconstruction. However, in complex cases or when preparing a case for trial, a Full Investigative Report can be more useful.