Which term best describes the knowledge that investigators gather from people to build a case, rather than physical evidence?

• A. Clues
• B. Evidence
• C. Information
• D. Intelligence

Answer: (C)

Knowledge gathered from people in an investigation is information. It comes from interviews, statements, tips, and reports provided by witnesses, victims, suspects, or informants. This non-physical knowledge helps establish what happened, who was involved, and when it occurred. Clues are hints that point to something and may not come directly from people. Evidence covers all proof used to establish facts, including physical items and testimonial statements. Intelligence is the organized, analyzed data used for decision-making; raw information becomes intelligence after processing. So the knowledge you collect from people to build a case is information.