NCJ Number
230351
Date Published
December 2009
Length
189 pages
Annotation
This research project analyzes different strategies of technology assessment employed by Forensic Identification units in Federal and Provincial police forces of Canada.
Abstract
Law enforcement has seen a proliferation of technological innovation in recent years. At the same time, the global recession has reduced the fiscal resources available to purchase and deploy new technological solutions. Thus, it is imperative that police forces select the technologies that offer a high return on investment. The technology assessment is the best method for achieving this goal. This qualitative study is based on: 1) participant observations at the Surete du Quebec and 2) semi-structured interviews (n=11) with members of the Ontario Provincial Police and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. An integrated analysis of the study data offers new insight into the dynamics of technology assessment as currently employed in the police force. The current practices strive to maximize return on investment. Nevertheless, there are refinements that will increase the efficiency of mini-PTA (Police Technology Assessment) and harmonize the operational and theoretical needs required to facilitate the end users' job functions. Even with improvement, the mini-PTA is best suited for smaller, regional police forces. It cannot replace unilaterally the process of PTA conducted by large police technology assessment agencies. (Published Abstract)