The Importance Of Solvability Factors In Policing

According to An Introduction to Policing textbook, solvability factors are, “factors considered in determining whether or not a case should be assigned for a follow-up investigation” (Dempsey & Forst, 2016, p.304). With this in mind, solvability factors aid whether or not there is a chance that the case can be solved, and help push the investigation to a fair conclusion (Engeling, 2013). Solvability factors usually come in the form of questions during the screening process. Some common solvability factors are, are there any witnesses, are there any details on the suspect, is there any physical evidence available, are there any vehicle/ tag descriptions? (Managing Criminal Investigations, 2015) Solvability factors in regards to policing is a way for investigators to determine whether or not to move the investigation forward. They affect the investigation by giving the investigators a chance to make sure that the case can able to be resolved without any complications. “Sometimes solvability factors may be disregarded and because of officers’ concern, for political reason, or public …show more content…
Yes, there is a small probability that some solvability factors may not be able to push a case forward, but the factors can determine the basis in which the case can be solved. Problems that may arise from the solvability factors is that some questions could have a political impact and endanger the public. When it comes to public safety and political scandal, officers or investigators might be more reluctant to carry on with the investigation. (Dempsey & Forest, 2016) Solvability factors should be used because without them; officer might not be aware if they have a good lead on a case and whether or not a case could take away from the time they could be used in a more organize case with more