NCJ Number
144608
Journal
Proceedings of the Indiana Academy of the Social Sciences Volume: 27 Dated: (1992) Pages: 39-45
Date Published
1992
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The creation of a European political entity, the United States of Europe, will pose several problems for police and criminal justice officials, who are concerned that the open borders between the European countries will result in increases several types of offenses.
Abstract
These offenses include drug trafficking, terrorism, stolen vehicles and vehicle parts, weapons and munitions transportation, immigration violations, and asylum. With the free movement of goods and people comes the free movement of drugs, contraband, guns, terrorists, and other criminal elements. The problems of drug abuse and drug law offenses are global in nature and already have significant impacts in Europe. Other crimes and the differences in laws of different countries are also a concern. The police in the European Community can react to their new challenges in two ways. If their response is disdainful and reactionary, crime problems will increase to such an extent that the ability to address them will be severely limited. However, police who use a proactive approach by planning, coordinating, and developing liaison with neighboring nations may solve many problems before they become major incidents. Countries that take a proactive approach will also be better equipped to solve problems after they have arisen. Interagency cooperation and improved training will aid this effort. 7 references