NCJ Number
177766
Date Published
May 1998
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Research was initiated using a nominal group technique panel of experts to identify trends and events that could influence the future role of State law enforcement intelligence programs.
Abstract
Four trends were analyzed: technology development, crime nationalization/internationalization, reliance on information management systems, and reliance on State resources. Events included in the analysis were a major terrorist attack, the enactment of legislation restricting the invasion of privacy, the development of artificial intelligence, and a major negative change in the economy. The panel determined that increased technology developments in computer systems would have a positive impact on local law enforcement's reliance on a State intelligence program and that lack of intelligence resources at the local level would drive local law enforcement agencies to lobby funding sources so States would provide the needed support. The panel also determined that State law enforcement intelligence programs should be prepared to operate in an environment of technology development and national and international cooperation. Recommendations to enhance the future role of State law enforcement intelligence programs are offered. 2 endnotes