Effective Investigation of Child Homicide and Suspicious Deaths

Crimes against children are some of the most serious, demanding investigations that the police and their partner agencies can be involved with. It is an extremely specialized crime area, constantly evolving with updated guidance, legislation, and working practices. This book offers an up-to-date practical approach to managing the investigation of child death, setting the protocols and procedures relating to these deaths, from sudden and unexpected deaths in infancy (SUDI) to suspicious cases and homicide.

Drawing on the author's extensive experience, this new edition of Effective Investigation of Child Homicide and Suspicious Deaths is an indispensable resource for those tasked with this challenging but essential work. Contributions from key medical professionals frame the complex and technical role of medical evidence and forensic procedures within a more practical setting. This new edition now also offers valuable psychological insight into how personality types, offending behaviours, and motivation can inform professionals' understanding and approach. A reminder of the nuances of child death investigations is present in the striking but sensitive inclusion of personal accounts from victims' families, insight from child bereavement support organisations, and child death reviews.