NCJ Number
221864
Journal
International Journal of Police Science & Management Volume: 9 Issue: 4 Dated: Winter 2007 Pages: 336-340
Date Published
2007
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the meaning of "intelligence" in the law enforcement context and proposes a practical and comprehensive definition based on the inherent characteristics of "intelligence."
Abstract
The article reviews various definitions of "intelligence" that emphasize the obtaining of information whose meaning and significance for the law enforcement mission is subsequently determined by analysts. "Intelligence" thus becomes the outcome of subjecting acquired information to analyses that first determine its accuracy/reliability and then its significance and usefulness for the deployment of law enforcement resources. Various emphases in defining "intelligence" lead to divisive and confused debate that detracts from the efficiency of handling information available to law enforcement agencies. This article recommends a conception of "intelligence" that considers what it is that establishes a given piece of information as "intelligence." Information that qualifies as intelligence has a special quality, i.e., significance for the purposes of the agency that possesses the information. If information is significant, it has value and relevance for the agency's mission; however, significance may be recognized, assigned, or developed; it cannot be manufactured. Analysis does not create the significance of the information; it merely discovers and refines it. The proposed definition for "intelligence" is "information which is significant or potentially significant for an inquiry or potential inquiry." 9 references