What are general features in the context of crime investigations?

General features in the context of crime investigations refer to the overall, broad characteristics that help investigators form initial understandings about a crime or a suspect. These general features can encompass a variety of traits, such as behavioral patterns, general physical descriptions, or significant themes in the modus operandi of the criminal activity.

Broad descriptions allow investigators to establish context and aid in narrowing down the scope of their inquiry, which can facilitate the identification of suspects or the understanding of criminal patterns. In contrast to detailed characteristics or specific identifiers that would provide more precise information, general features serve as a foundational aspect that guides the investigation in its early stages. The utility of broad descriptions lies in their ability to provide a framework for further investigation and analysis, which can then be supplemented with more specific data as the case develops.