What is the primary benefit of reviewing a crime lab report during an investigation?

Reviewing a crime lab report during an investigation is primarily beneficial for establishing and eliminating suspects to strengthen the case. Crime lab reports provide critical scientific evidence that can directly relate to individuals involved in the investigation. For example, DNA analysis, fingerprinting, or ballistic testing can link a suspect to the crime scene or eliminate them as a potential perpetrator. This process is vital in narrowing down the field of suspects and focusing investigative efforts, which in turn increases the chances of solving the case effectively.

While proving the guilt of a suspect is an important objective of an investigation, the lab report itself doesn't declare guilt; it offers evidence that can contribute to that conclusion when presented in totality with other investigative findings. The focus on establishing or eliminating suspects is a key function of the investigative phase, making it the most pertinent reason for reviewing such reports. In contrast, comparing prior crimes may provide context but does not directly assist in identifying or excluding suspects in the current case, and determining motive, although significant, is not primarily addressed through lab reports.