Senior Investigating Officer's Handbook

The second edition of this unique one-stop guide features key updates to all the processes and actions involved in conducting major investigations. In a clear and understandable fashion, it explains the processes, procedures and instructions integral to the role of SIO and encompasses all the vital elements for mounting successful investigations. This update sees extra information included on dealing with crime scenes, particularly terrorist-related, handling the news media and using social networking websites to good advantage, as well as the previously uncovered area -investigating the deaths of children.

A portable and accessible point of reference, the Handbook condenses ACPO guidance, core doctrines, legislation, and procedures into one volume and provides practical advice, cases and checklists for each stage of the investigation. All stages relevant to the role of an SIO are covered including: initial response; crime scene assessment; evidence gathering; dealing with suspects; and liaising with the media. Context to the procedures outlined is facilitated by case studies, which the authors supplement with explanations and important procedures and processes interwoven with examples.

This title is aimed at anyone who conducts, reviews or has a professional interest in major crime investigations, particularly homicide. It will also be of interest to those who perform call-out duties or are expected to take command and control of such incidents, making vital early decisions. It is a must have reference tool for any SIO (or prospective SIO) whether they be at beginner, intermediate or advanced level.

Detective Superintendent Tony Cook has been a CID officer with Greater Manchester Police for over 25 years. During his tenure as an SIO, he has led a number of high profile investigations including an operation into gangland violence at Moss Side and, more recently, an investigation into the widely reported shooting of 15 year old Jessie James. He is a qualified Assessor for promotion and an Authorising Officer under RIPA and has completed numerous professional courses on all aspects of major crime investigation. Andy Tattersall, formerly Detective Superintendent in the Greater Manchester Police on the Force Major Incident Team, retired in 2007 after 33 years service and became the first ever Support Staff SIO in charge of a new Homicide Support Unit. A career detective with over 29 years in CID at all ranks, Andy is recognised locally and nationally as one of the most experienced investigators in the UK, holding the position of SIO for eleven years. In 2000 he was part of a select Specialist Advisory Team, created to assist the Metropolitan Police with the murder investigation of Jill Dando. Andy received the Homicide Working Group National Award for his Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Homicide in November 2006.