ISSUES AND CHALLENGES AFFECTING THE CONDUCT OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE

Efficient gathering and storage of evidence are essential components of criminal investigations. Evidence that is handled properly is guaranteed to be admissible in court and incorporates the judicial system's integrity. The evidence gathered and the methods used in the investigation can significantly impact the strength of the case and, ultimately, the prosecution's decision to proceed with the case. In some cases, and hidden issues from the public, investigators face fears from their superiors and politicians. They receive threats and intimidation, which adversely affects the investigation. They hesitate to voice out this perennial problem to protect themselves and their families. This study is a qualitative attempt to determine the issues and challenges experienced by the investigators in conducting criminal investigations as well as the factors that lead to the occurrence of these issues and challenges in connection with the compliance of investigators within the framework of criminal investigation procedure in a certain district in Northern Philippines. The findings of this study show the issues and challenges experienced by the police investigator in conducting criminal investigation procedures. The investigators face many issues and challenges: failure to collect and preserve evidence properly, disruption during crime scene investigation, witness cooperation, fear and intimidation of the witness, intimidation by higher officials affecting the investigation, and observance of the regulatory period. The credibility of the criminal investigation procedure is significant in criminal investigations; it is the basis on which the judge decides whether to continue the trial or dismiss the case. The findings show that some investigators are facing this kind of issue, which leads to the dismissal of the case they filed.