What is a preliminary investigation?

A preliminary investigation is defined as the initial inquiry conducted by law enforcement at a crime scene to gather basic facts. This stage is vital for establishing the circumstances surrounding an incident, identifying witnesses, collecting evidence, and determining whether a crime has occurred. During this phase, officers aim to secure the crime scene and document any relevant details that will aid in further investigations.

This initial assessment sets the groundwork for any subsequent law enforcement action, including arrests or additional investigative steps. It is essential for ensuring that critical evidence is preserved and for guiding the direction of the case. Other processes, such as follow-up inquiries or comprehensive reports, occur later in the investigation timeline and are based on the findings of the preliminary investigation.