to wonder what the police are still doing there?

[Greensleeves]

Murder happened very near us a week ago. Man in custody and charged.

There's still a heavy police presence around the area, sniffer dogs, police appear to be searching the grounds and surrounding area...what are they still doing there? News have already released who the victims were and how they died, it all seems fairly open-and-shut.

DH is a nosy bugger and it's driving him mad

They are probably looking for and/or gathering evidence to secure his conviction

Looking for evidence so that the man they've charged is convicted.

Guarding the scene of crime to prevent any associates returning to remove evidence also.

I think you live near me! I also wondered this, no other suspects and lots of witnesses.

They need every hair, speck of blood and fingerprint. Takes ages.

Exeter way I’m assuming?

Every piece of evidence has to be gathered and/or looked for. Just because it seems 'open and shut' doesn't mean the investigation stops. They need to look into everything that may prove or disprove someone's involvement. If not then the case could easily fall apart at court.

They can't risk anybody going into the house who could either tamper with the scene or try to tidy /clean up

@DartmoorDoughnut no, I'm Surrey borders, sad that it happens so many places!

Looking for further evidence I'm sure. Forensics and SOC work is fascinating, and from what I know slow, methodical work,

I did an online course on forensic science and criminal justice. If your DH is interested in that side of it then I recommend it. It was partly aimed at debunking the myths we see trotted out in tv and film.

@youknowmedontyou yes it is rather disturbing!

Gathering forensic evidence is a long laborious task, very time consuming, particularly so in case of murder. I have a forensics degree and evidence collection is much more involved than what you see on tv. The paperwork and log chain has to be watertight.