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theory, or reaches a plausible conclusion, which ultimately lacks verification. This is not to state or imply the
investigator was lucky. Variables from skill and experience, to the evidence, did mesh together sufficiently for the
appropriate findings.
3) The official investigation was competent, with the official findings not consistent with the facts and evidence
Similar to #2, and seemingly the opposite - this is the next most common area, but of questioned outcome. These
false or unverified findings are most often the result of not analyzing or interpreting the evidence correctly (see #4),
whether by cognitive bias or experience. Two persons or teams may conduct the same investigation, review the
same facts and evidence, and reach different conclusions. This is what is often seen the courtroom, with opposing
investigators and experts; even witnesses who see the same event differently, through no fault of their own.
4) The official investigation was not competent, with the official findings not consistent with the facts and evidence
This is the worst of the worst, and rarest of findings. From the course of the investigation, to the findings - there is
issues from beginning to end. Evidence may not have been found, collected, or tested - or any combination.
Evidence includes, not only trace evidence - but scene response and investigation; witness development, contact,
and interviews; evidence development, collection, and testing. This is not to say the full and entire investigation was
not competently conducted; however, it is to show that any component of the investigation not competently
conducted and the conclusions, therefore, were unreliable and without factual basis.
How do investigators best reach a conclusion that is both competent and supported by the facts and evidence? By
following a protocol to best of one's abilities and resources. We understand all investigations are limited based on
available time, resources, funds, and evidence. Any limitation to these - and there always will be - will have an impact on
the outcome. Other variables include the investigator's own experience and "commitment to conducting impartial,
objective, and ethical investigations as an advocate for the facts."
Thank You!
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