NCJ Number
84705
Journal
Australian Police Journal Volume: 36 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1982) Pages: 116-133
Date Published
1982
Length
18 pages
Annotation
An analysis of potential problems related to security and integrity in Australian police drug squads identifies the pressure to obtain arrests and the need to rely on informants as problematic aspects of drug law enforcement. Special precautions are required of officers in drug squad work.
Abstract
Among charges made against drug unit members are that they have been involved in drug trafficking, that they have stolen money or other goods during drug raids, and that they have taken money in return for ignoring obvious criminal offenses. Security in a drug law enforcement unit includes both security of exhibits and documents and safeguards in discussions with people outside the drug unit. To improve the security of offices, access should be limited to authorized persons. Undercover personnel should not be observed entering or leaving police premises. The backgrounds of new personnel should be carefully checked to prevent leakages of information. Records on such matters as contacts and drug purchases should be available only to the persons who need to know the information. Leakages to the media should be avoided. Vehicles used for undercover or surveillance duties should be separated from those used for transporting prisoners. Coded messages should be used in radio communications regarding suspects or locations. Particular care should be taken to ensure the security of exhibits. Police administrators should also rotate staff in areas involving great mental strains. Additional areas needing attention are training and pay levels. Appendixes presenting the viewpoints of a police officer and an educator and a list of 15 references are provided.