On the criteria and principles to the group methodology of crime investigation

Introduction. This article provides a brief overview of the core theoretical issues pertaining to the group methodology of criminal investigation. The paper explores the structure of forensic methodology, focusing on the concept and classifications. The findings about the reasons for the separation of special elements of this structure are made. The article highlights the need of singling out (separation) the methodology for investigating large groups of crimes and as well as the need for research into the theoretical issues of group investigation methodology. The criteria for singling out crimes of enlarged groups are then presented and substantiated. Finally, the most common forensic features of investigation are considered. The criteria for the singling out similar criminal-legal and forensic characteristics of crimes and the methodology of their investigation have been identified and studied. The main structural elements of group investigation methodology have been identified. The difference between group methodology and private investigation methodology has been elucidated. The subject of group methodology is the features of theoretical provisions, the content of the criminal investigation of an enlarged group, and similar features in the criminal-legal and forensic characteristics of these crimes. Methods and results. The study of structural elements of group methodology revealed the necessity to explore the concept of principles. The objective nature of the main principles of group methodology was substantiated. The following principles were identified: the principle of using similar features of crimes committed by an enlarged group; the principle of combining scientific and practical recommendations of a particular investigation with recommendations designed by group methodology; and the principle of completeness of combining general provisions of methodology with private methodology. The content and significance of these principles for qualitative investigation were then examined.