Expert: Dick Rogers - 8/29/2011

Question
Dear Mr. Rogers,
My question only deals with the ethical aspects of homicide work in a very indirect way, for the sake of a story that I am writing. Is it at all possible that a homicide detective (or a detective in a violent crimes department) will be assigned a homicide case that involves the shooting of his own son (among other victims)? If it is not likely that he will be given a case that is personally connected to him, can he be involved in the case in some other, lesser capacity?
Thank you for your help!
David

Answer
David, given the details as you've explained them, a detective would not be involved in a case where his son is one of the victims.  The only way he could be involved would be to supply detectives working the case with pertinent information that would help them resolve the case.  A case as demanding as a homicide requires that the investigators approach it with a clear perspective...having a son as a victim certainly would taint that approach.