Although Merritt works closely with the local police department, she doesn’t share everything, out of concern that once they have a suspect, they focus too much on that person, becoming “blind to all the evidence that points a different way.” (p. 77). What do you think about her opinion here? Is she correct?
Based on all the books I’ve read and shows I’ve watch I would agree with Merritt. The police have a different function than a PI. They are required by society or the powers that be to get the case solved, so maybe they perhaps go with the first clues and stick to them to much.
I agree with her based on other books and documentaries I have seen of real life scenarios. I think its a human trait and unavoidable so its good to have other perspectives looking into crimes.
I think this can happen with law enforcement. It may not be intentional however it happens. A private investigator may have more time to research than the day to day law enforcement officer.
Some police officers and departments behave this way, but not all. Certainly they don’t want to keep a case open longer than necessary if they think the way forward is clear, but a good officer would consider all the evidence, not just what supports the conclusion they want.