The article investigates the theoretical foundations of the modern forensic doctrine regarding the methods of crime investigation, in particular, a number of controversial issues related to the concept and content of the programmed target method in forensic science are touched upon. By the method of the programmed target is meant the scientific analysis and the organization of the activity in order to obtain new knowledge by means of the standard forensic programs, elaborated in time which are systems of recommendations to give help to the law enforcement bodies in terms of the organization of the research and obtaining of new knowledge, with a view to the correct and timely solution of the tasks that stand before the criminal process, at the initial stage. The authors investigated the possibilities and the contribution of the programmed target method to the detection and investigation of crimes, emphasizing the features and the algorithm of the activities that need to be followed when applying this method, in order to find the truth in a criminal case.