Computer Crime in North Carolina: Assessing the Needs of Local Law Enforcement

• NCJ Number: 240435
• Author(s): Justin T. Davis
• Date Published: May 2010
• Length: 28 pages
• Corporate Author: North Carolina Governor's Crime Cmssn
• Sale Source: North Carolina Governor's Crime Cmssn
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study assessed investigative needs of law enforcement and examined the prevalence of computer crime in North Carolina.

Abstract

Findings from a survey reveal several areas of concern related to the investigation of computer-related crime: 1) agencies are least prepared in terms of equipment; 2) there are substantial deficiencies in training and much concern over the shortage of manpower that is required to combat these crimes; 3) throughout the survey, the majority of responding agencies had to estimate the number of investigations containing a cyber component as no actual statistics were readily available; and 4) penalties should be reviewed in addition to the laws surrounding the investigation and prosecution of computer-related crime due to its quickly-evolving nature. Based on comments from the survey, it appears investigators and prosecutors are routinely disconnected when dealing with crimes involving a cyber component. In the Greensboro area of judicial district 18, a unique partnership has been beneficial in dealing with the challenges posed by cases with a cyber component. The analysis center staff recommends that this collaboration model be examined more closely for potential replication throughout other areas of the State, ultimately providing both investigators and prosecutors with more confidence in the area of cyber crime. Also, recommended is that consideration be given to establishing pilot sites for joint training sessions among neighboring judicial districts across the State. Joint training on these types of crimes would likely help alleviate some of the problems encountered by both investigators and prosecutors involved with such cases and would further support collaborative partnerships between the two. Joint training could be used to address such topics as computer and technology terminology, methods of presenting computer-related cases, how to handle common issues brought forth by the defense, how to make current laws work in the prosecution of cases, and what investigators can provide the prosecution to strengthen a case. 1 table, 12 figures and appendix