Investigative Decision-Making: A Qualitative Analysis of Homicide Detectives’ Practices

Abstract

Investigative decision-making, vital for homicide investigations and the justice system, lacks research in Brazil. We interviewed 15 experienced homicide detectives, and Thematic Analysis was used to analyze the data. Four themes were identified: Experience, Training, and Method; Decision-making Support; Decision-making Obstacles; and Biases and Heuristics. Specific training and methods favor decision-making, but experience can have an ambiguous effect. Biases and heuristics were identified in detectives’ investigative decisions. These findings have theoretical and practical implications, contributing to a better understanding of the subject.