Cold Case
A Cold Case refers to a criminal investigation, typically involving serious crimes like murder or missing persons, that remains unsolved and is no longer actively pursued due to lack of new evidence. These cases are not closed but remain "cold" until new information emerges. Law enforcement agencies often have specialized units or investigators who review these older cases using new technology, fresh perspectives, or recently discovered evidence. This term is important in police work because solving cold cases helps bring closure to families, ensures justice is served, and demonstrates that law enforcement remains committed to solving crimes regardless of how much time has passed.
Examples in Resumes
Supervised team of 4 detectives working on Cold Case investigations
Successfully resolved 3 Cold Case homicides using new DNA analysis techniques
Developed and implemented new filing system for Cold Cases to improve case tracking efficiency
Typical job title: "Cold Case Investigators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Cold Case Investigators
Professional Organizations
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage and prioritize multiple cold cases with limited resources?
Expected Answer: A senior investigator should discuss assessment criteria like solvability factors, public interest, available evidence, and witness availability. They should also mention resource allocation strategies and the importance of maintaining organized case files.
Q: Describe your experience in supervising cold case investigations that led to successful prosecutions.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, ability to coordinate with various departments, understanding of evidence preservation, and knowledge of current investigation techniques that can be applied to old cases.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What strategies do you use when reviewing old case files?
Expected Answer: Should discuss systematic approach to file review, identifying potential leads, understanding the importance of re-interviewing witnesses, and knowledge of new technological capabilities that might help solve old cases.
Q: How do you handle working with families of cold case victims?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate strong communication skills, empathy, ability to manage expectations, and experience in providing regular updates while maintaining professional boundaries.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is your understanding of chain of custody for cold case evidence?
Expected Answer: Should show basic knowledge of evidence handling procedures, documentation requirements, and importance of maintaining evidence integrity for future testing.
Q: How would you begin reviewing a cold case file?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of case file organization, initial steps in case review, and importance of thorough documentation of new findings.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic investigative techniques
- Evidence handling and documentation
- Report writing
- Basic interview skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced interview techniques
- Evidence analysis
- Case file management
- Victim family liaison
Senior (5+ years)
- Investigation unit supervision
- Complex case management
- Training and mentoring
- Multi-agency coordination
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of attention to detail in documentation
- Poor communication skills
- Inability to work with minimal supervision
- Limited experience with evidence handling procedures
- No experience writing detailed reports
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