On the other hand, where the weapon has not been spirited away
the detectives may spend weeks in discovering when and where
it was purchased. Every pawnshop, every store where a pistol
could be bought, is investigated, and under proper
circumstances the requisite evidence to show deliberation and
premeditation may be secured.
These investigations are naturally conducted at the very
outset of the preparation of the case.
The weapon, in seven trials out of ten, is the most important
thing in it. By its means it can generally be demonstrated
whether the shooting was accidental or intentional--and
whether or not the killing was in self-defence.
Where this last plea is interposed it is usually made at once
upon the arrest, the accused explaining to the police that he
fired only to save his own life. In such a situation, where
the killing is admitted, practically the entire preparation
will centre upon the most minute tests to determine whether or
not the shot was fired as the accused claims that it was.
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