Crime Writing Resources

Essential Resources for Writing Crime and Murder Mystery Novels

Writing compelling crime and murder mystery novels often requires a blend of creativity and accuracy. Readers of this genre expect intricate plots, believable characters, and an authentic portrayal of criminal investigations. To meet these expectations, writers need reliable resources to help them research the details of law enforcement, forensic science, legal procedures, and criminal psychology. Below is a curated list of helpful websites and tools to assist writers in crafting authentic and captivating stories.

1. Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement

• FBI Crime Data Explorer: The FBI's official site for crime statistics and data, allowing writers to ground their stories in real-world data.

• Police1: This site offers articles, news, and resources about police procedures, equipment, and training.

• National Institute of Justice: A government site with in-depth reports on forensic science, criminal behavior, and justice systems.

• International Association of Chiefs of Police: Provides insight into law enforcement practices and current issues in policing.

2. Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation

• Crime Scene Investigator Network: Offers resources and guides on crime scene procedures, evidence collection, and forensic analysis.

• American Academy of Forensic Sciences: Provides a wealth of information on forensic science disciplines, including DNA analysis, toxicology, and digital forensics.

• Forensic Science Simplified: A beginner-friendly resource explaining various forensic techniques and methods.

• The Body Farm at the University of Tennessee: For insights into forensic anthropology and decomposition studies.

3. Legal and Judicial Systems

• Legal Information Institute (LII): Maintained by Cornell University, this site offers free access to legal statutes, case law, and procedural rules.

• Justia: A comprehensive resource for researching U.S. law and legal practices.

• United States Courts: Learn about federal court procedures, terminology, and case processes.

4. Criminal Psychology and Behavioral Profiling

• APA's Criminal Justice Resources: Insights from the American Psychological Association into criminal behavior and mental health issues.

• The Crime Library: Archived case studies and profiles of notorious criminals, offering psychological insights.

• Mindhunters: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit: Learn from the experiences of criminal profilers.

5. Writing Craft and Community

• Mystery Writers of America (MWA): A professional organization for mystery and crime writers, offering resources, networking, and mentorship opportunities.

• Sisters in Crime (SinC): An organization promoting the advancement of women in crime fiction.

• The Kill Zone Blog: Articles and tips from seasoned authors about writing crime and thriller fiction.

6. Real-Life Case Studies and Crime Databases

• The Murder Accountability Project: Tracks unsolved murders and provides data for research.

• CityProtect: Provides maps and data about crimes in specific locations.

• Cold Case Foundation: Insights into unsolved cases and investigative techniques.

7. Specialized Tools for Writers

• Writer’s Detective Bureau: A blog and podcast dedicated to answering writers' questions about law enforcement.

• Crime Writer Sue Coletta’s Resources: A comprehensive list of research links and writing tips specifically for crime fiction authors.

• Writers Helping Writers: Offers tools for character development, plot structuring, and scene crafting.

• CIA World Factbook: Provides detailed country profiles, useful for creating international settings or understanding geopolitical contexts.

Tips for Authenticity

1. Consult Experts: Reach out to professionals in law enforcement, forensic science, or the legal field for insights.

2. Visit Locations: If possible, visit police stations, courthouses, or crime scenes to observe real-life settings.

3. Read True Crime: Books and documentaries about true crimes can provide valuable inspiration and context.

4. Stay Updated: Laws, technology, and police procedures change over time—keep your knowledge current.

Using these resources can really help bring your crime and murder mystery stories to life. When you stay committed to authenticity, your readers will feel the difference—whether you’re crafting a gripping whodunit, an intense police procedural, or a chilling psychological thriller. Having the right tools and information on hand not only enhances your storytelling but also ensures your work stands out in the genre.

Misc Extras:

Books:

The Writer's Guide to Weapons: A Practical Reference for Using Firearms and Knives in Fiction