Identity (who) in burglary

The search for the identity of the burglar should begin at the very outset of an investigation. Once the investigation has established the corpus delicti of burglary, the investigation should be centred on the identity and apprehension of the burglar. Identity of the burglar is known to be established in many ways. Many burglars are seen by people inside the place and are apprehended and identified by their description of them. Sometimes witnesses may see the burglar move, but not realize that a burglary has been committed until later. Eye-witnesses may identify such suspects, describe a known burglar, or someone who was acting suspiciously near the place. An investigation of known burglars may reveal that this person was in the vicinity (окрестности, соседство). Examination of the modus operandi may reveal evidence of similar characteristics in a known burglar's handiwork (работа, рукоделие).

Stolen goods may be found, traced to the burglar and his identity established. A suspect may be away from his usual place at the time the burglary was committed. Stool pigeons (осведомитель) are often invaluable in revealing the identity of burglars. The fact that a person supports himself or spends money freely without visible means of support may reveal identity. Fingerprints, footprints, tool marking, and other physical evidence are certain to establish leads (руководство/указание) to identity.

Flight (бегство) or absence of a certain person during an investigation may give leads to clues to his identity.

All these characteristics and many others are expected to be the means which first point to a certain person as suspected, and, later, identify the burglar. Identity proves to be best established when there are confessions, admissions (допущение), or identifications by eye-witnesses. If the evidence allows presumption of guilt the case is ready for prosecution and arrest.