NCJ Number
224941
Journal
Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management Volume: 31 Issue: 3 Dated: 2008 Pages: 359-379
Date Published
2008
Length
21 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this paper is to explore some of the problems and obstacles that arise in the execution of a joint force operation (JFO) involving various law enforcement agencies, with emphasis placed on examining factors that impede interagency cooperation and coordination in the context of a JFO targeting organized crime enforcement.
Abstract
As documented in this paper, the dissemination and sharing of intelligence is a particular lightening rod for dissent among municipal and provincial agencies participating in the joint force operation (JFO) examined. One of the most harmful obstacles to a more unified approach to combating major and serious criminal conspiracies is the continued limited intelligence sharing among different enforcement agencies. The majority of survey participants overwhelmingly believe that the integrated, multiagency approach is an essential ingredient in the effectiveness of the JFO. Whether it is based on theories and research from the field of organizational psychology or policing cultural studies, there are a number of underlying factors that help erect and sustain obstacles to a cooperative relationship between policing agencies within a JFO context. These obstacles must be torn down and replaced with institutions and commitments to a truly coordinated strategic approach in order to better serve the public. Despite the increased prevalence and importance of JFOs in combating organized and serious criminal conspiracies, little research has been conducted that examines the issues and problems that obstruct interagency cooperation. The goal of this research study was to assess a Canadian JFO case from the perspective of its member agencies and other key partners, with particular emphasis on gauging their level of satisfaction with certain criteria that could help determine the operational effectiveness of the JFO. Figures, references