FAQ About Cold Cases and Breakthroughs
How long does a case have to be unsolved to be considered a cold case?
The specific duration required for a case to be considered a cold case can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the policies of the law enforcement agency involved. There is no universally agreed-upon time frame that universally defines a cold case. However, in general, a case is typically labeled as a cold case if it has gone unresolved for a significant period, often exceeding the statute of limitations for the particular crime involved.
While there is no fixed timeline, it is not uncommon for cases to be classified as cold cases after several years of inactivity. However, it's important to note that this can vary widely. Some jurisdictions may consider cases cold after just a few years, while others may require a more extended period before applying the label.
Ultimately, the determination of whether a case is classified as a cold case is made by law enforcement agencies based on their internal guidelines and protocols, as well as the available resources and priorities.
