Criminal Investigation Using Gibbs Model Of Reflection

It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts’ (Holmes, 2009). Criminal Investigation is a very critical aspect of the Justice System and the wider society in general. For a number of years now, the international media have been criticizing severely the handling of criminal investigations. Some of the issues that have been highlighted are flawed police investigations, which has led to miscarriages of justice (Rossmo, 2009). In these contexts, police detectives are the persons responsible for performing the investigative role. They solve crimes by investigating and collecting evidence. Ultimately, the outcome of an investigation is predisposed …show more content…
Whilst the essay describes a specific investigation, I try to incorporate some thoughts and questions that this incites within me about my role as a detective in general. I also started to think about other investigations that I would be conducting in the future and what I had to do to become more competent. The framework of this essay was structured using Gibbs (1998) model of reflection. This particular model of reflection was chosen because it allows me to challenge my assumptions; explore new ideas and ways of doing things; promote self-improvement by identifying my strengths and weaknesses and taking action to address them and; to link practice and theory by doing or observing with thinking or applying knowledge (Gibbs, …show more content…
I repeatedly questioned my ability to investigate this crime properly. It was very clear that I was not prepared enough to undertake this kind of investigation, but I had a lot of confidence in myself. Eraut (2004), argues that confidence is an important aspect of learning, and that much learning occurs from proactively having the confidence to take on challenges. My role was to was to ensure that the best evidence and all the facts were gathered and presented and didn’t feel as if I did that very well. I did not have a clear strategy or plan for the investigation. I was very anxious about what the outcome would be in court. The victim needed justice. He had suffered a lot as a result of what had happened to him and I felt as if I owed it to him, to ensure that the suspect was punished for the crime. This really had a profound impact on me both at home and at work. I also wondered how the public would react if this case was lost in court. Members of the community needed to have that level of confidence in their detectives and feel assured that they are competent enough to investigate crimes within the