Computers and Their Effects on Investigative Procedures (From Critical Issues in Criminal Investigation, Second Edition, P 15-33, 1988, Michael J Palmiotto, ed. -- See NCJ-109292)

• NCJ Number: 109293
• Author(s): J Probert
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 19 pages
• Sale Source: Anderson Publishing Co
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Current trends in law enforcement recordkeeping and the issue of centralized versus decentralized record systems are reviewed. Advocates of the centralized system argue that it would save taxpayers money by eliminating duplication of community, county, and State records while increasing efficiency. Under a decentralized system, local law enforcement agencies would maintain responsibility for proper security and upkeep of administrative and criminal records and would determine who should have access to its files. An analysis of recordkeeping on the Federal and State levels found that criminal records were incorrect and not properly updated as mandated by law. The issue of abuse in automated fingerprints and computer crime is discussed, and the need to provide computer education for law enforcement personnel is evaluated. With the growing use of computers, many officers, investigators and administrators have been forced to become computer literate in order to maintain police and administrative efficiency. Based on this trend, it has been recommended that a 'standards committee' be established to develop forms, terminology and procedures for interagency communications and computerized records. 13 footnotes and 7 references.