A criminal investigation is a systematic process used by law enforcement to gather evidence and solve crimes. It typically begins when a crime is reported, and investigators collect information from various sources, including witnesses, physical evidence, and surveillance footage. The goal is to identify suspects and understand the circumstances surrounding the crime. During the investigation, detectives may interview witnesses, analyze forensic evidence, and review police reports. They work to build a case that can be presented in court. Successful investigations often rely on collaboration with other agencies and the use of technology to uncover crucial details.