We need to talk about dialogue: Accomplishing collaborative sensemaking in homicide investigations

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the importance of dialogue for collaborative sensemaking during homicide investigation, focusing upon interactions between detectives, forensic scientists and other experts involved in managing and undertaking forensic work. Drawing on data from a 4-year ethnographic study of British homicide investigations, we provide insights from criminal justice actors about both the value of, and barriers to, inter-professional and cross-disciplinary dialogue. We explore how and why organisational arrangements may limit opportunities for forensic scientists and other experts to engage collaboratively with detectives and prosecutors. We conclude by considering ways to enhance collaborative sensemaking during the investigation of homicide.

Sensemaking and evidence in criminal investigations of organised crime: A literature review

“…Using data collected during an ethnographic study of British homicide investigations, Jones et al (2021) explore the role of collaborative sensemaking by forensic experts, forensic scientists and police criminal investigators. Instead of sensemaking itself, the study focuses more on its preconditions.…”