Introducing the NIJ Forensic Intelligence Framework: Pillars and Guiding Principles for Successful Implementation

• NCJ Number: 309128
• Date Published: November 2024
• Agencies: NIJ
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)

Annotation

This introductory document provides a thorough overview and explanation of the National Institute of Justice’s Forensic Intelligence Framework, detailing the five pillars and seven guiding principles behind the Framework, and how it is designed to be a flexible, adaptable, and sustainable tool for developing locally relevant forensic intelligence activities.

Abstract

Forensic intelligence is defined as the collection, organization, interpretation, and sharing of forensic case data in support of criminal investigations and intelligence procedures. Although current practices utilize forensic data to solve and prosecute individual crimes, collected data often remain archived in state and local labs. The forensic intelligence approach uses these datasets to link and track crime patterns individualized to local jurisdictions and ultimately reduce crime in those areas. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Forensic Intelligence (FOR-INT) Framework capitalizes on advancements in forensics, analytics, operations, and technology capabilities, with the goal of developing actionable intelligence for solving, disrupting, and preventing crime, based on available data and information. The Framework also provides opportunities for evaluation to measure the effectiveness of the implementation of forensic intelligence activities. The FOR-INT Framework is the result of a multiyear, intramural research effort under the NIJ Forensic Intelligence Framework Initiative carried out by NIJ scientists from the Office of Research, Evaluation, Forensics, and Technology, with support from external subject matter expert consultants. This research serves as a roadmap that law enforcement agencies can use to begin implementation, whether in part or in full, based on their own agency priorities. This report provides guidance to state and local law enforcement agencies and their forensic laboratories in the implementation of an innovative approach to the investigation of crime, including serial and organized crime.