NCJ Number
75539
Date Published
Unknown
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This report describes procedures used by the Statewide Organized Crime Investigative Task Force (SOCITF) to ensure the privacy and security of intelligence data relating to the activities of organized crime.
Abstract
Intelligence data collected by SOCITF are largely made up of unverified information, allegations, and other data which may never be exposed to formal criminal justice proceedings. Because of its sensitive nature, intelligence data must be adequately protected in its storage, handling, and use to ensure that such information is not misused. To accomplish this goal, strict procedures have been developed. The SOCITF building is used solely by the task force and is separated from other buildings in the complex. An extensive background investigation is conducted for all personnel. Access to documents is controlled through the intelligence analysts who work under and are accountable to the director. Documents and other intelligence information are assigned categories of sensitivity and releasability for control purposes, and request forms must be used to obtain access to controlled documents. Two studies are now being conducted which focus on the security and privacy issue; SOCITF is awaiting the recommendations of these studies before developing detailed procedures. In the interim, strict care will be exercised in the collection and dissemination of intelligence information to avoid violation of the individual's right to privacy. Dissemination of organized crime information is restricted to qualified agencies. Each agency which contributes organized crime intelligence data or information is encouraged to assign a releasability category to such information. Descriptions of each category to which documents are assigned and general guidelines in assigning a classification are included. Three footnotes are provided.