I've been using Google and looking at some books on Amazon but I'd like to know if anyone has any tips or suggestions on where I might find good resources about Police Investigation Procedures? Books, websites, message boards, etc.
I've been reading some of the reviews on these books on Amazon and they seem like good books but has anyone heard of them or do you have another suggestion for something I can read up on this subject?
Howdunit Book of Police Procedure and Investigation: A Guide for Writers by Lee Lofland <This one seems like the best as far as reviews go.
The Crime Writer's Guide to Police Practice and Procedure (Paperback) 2nd Edition by Michael O'Byrne
Forensics and Fiction: Clever, Intriguing, and Downright Odd Questions from Crime Writers by D. P. Lyle M.D.
Thank you for any help or ideas!
As a side note: I'm doing this 30 novel writing thing from a book I bought years ago and never actually used called "No Plot? No Problem! A low-stress, high-velocity guide to writing a novel in 30 days" by Chris Baty. I get a week to research and then just write using the prompts in the book. Since joining here I've actually gotten two short stories down, not ready for publishing because I want to let them sit a little before editing but I'm feeling fairly creative lately so I'd like to give this a try.
Contact a local police agency and see if they do citizen ride alongs. Many do and it would be a good opportunity to pick a brain or two under real world conditions.
@OtterMan, thank you, that's an excellent idea.
Textbook for criminal justice majors maybe?
I'm guessing you've already looked through the great list of craft essays available on this site, but if not Repo Kempt has multiple essays about writing realistic crime scenes. Worth a look!
I use the Michael O'Byrne book, but it's British so deals with our procedures.
Thank you, everyone!
