NCJ Number
81681
Date Published
Unknown
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This panel discussion looks at the use of intelligence information under the law and suggests ways an organized crime intelligence unit can handle data without violating privacy and protection laws.
Abstract
Recent legal challenges to police intelligence activity have occurred in the following areas: scope of intelligence activity, physical and photographic surveillance, informers and undercover agent infiltration, and dissemination of information (including responsibility for its accuracy). Most of these challenges have related to situations where the first amendment claim can be raised. Enforcement units must develop guidelines for legal and reasonable intelligence activity to foresee and forestall challenges and must carefully analyze the agency intelligence objectives. Most misunderstandings regarding intelligence operations derive from confusion over who is being served. To make matters worse, intelligence has often been misused by officers misunderstanding its role within the total police function. Thus, a clear understanding of the definition of police intelligence and its uses is essential at all levels of command. In addition, the entire intelligence process must be regularly evaluated and updated to ensure the continued validity of its product and compliance with the law. The role of the Law Enforcement Intelligence Unit in the fight against organized crime is also discussed. Panel members include police officers, an FBI agent, and an investigative bureau chief. For the final workshop, see NCJ 81691.