NCJ Number
162439
Journal
Campus Law Enforcement Journal Volume: 26 Issue: 2 Dated: (March/April 1996) Pages: 3-5
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article provides an overview of investigative techniques and issues associated with the theft of high-tech equipment from a facility on the grounds of the University of Central Florida.
Abstract
Located within the University of Central Florida Police Department's jurisdiction is the Central Florida Research Park, which includes a building that houses the Center for Research in Electro-Optics and Lasers (CREOL). The campus police learned a quick lesson about the marketing of stolen high-tech equipment when $400,000 worth of equipment disappeared from the CREOL laboratories. In order to perform its work, the investigative team had to have an understanding of the stolen equipment, its functions, and markets of resale, so as to develop a profile of the thief. Issues addressed in the investigation were access to the building and the room from which the equipment was stolen, since there was no forced entry; the practical use of the equipment; and where it could be "fenced." Answers to some of these questions were obtained by researching the Internet accounts of students at CREOL, as well as searching for clues of any possible equipment outlets. A number of possible outlets were located via the Internet. Narrowing in on specific accounts by user ID's helped develop a suspect. The defendant would also receive equipment orders from prospective dealers over the Internet, orders that were directed specifically to the defendant. Using the Reid Interview Techniques, the primary suspect provided a full confession to the theft. Warrant and evidence issues are also discussed in this article, as well as the cooperation required with CREOL personnel and the public police.