NCJ Number
80933
Date Published
1977
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article explains the principle of voluntary cooperation by which the various branches of the law enforcement field have come to function and perceive themselves almost as an integral unit. The dominant perspective represented is that of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Abstract
Because of the extremely broad spectrum of violations that fall within FBI responsibility, FBI investigative work could not be discharged effectively without the close, reciprocal cooperation afforded it by other law enforcement agencies. This relationship is particularly close between the FBI and the United States Customs Service. Among the reciprocal services offered by the FBI to related organizations are its training programs, where specialized instruction is given to customs patrol officers for dealing with hostile acts by smugglers and terrorist groups. The FBI Identification Division offers its laboratory services to the U.S. Customs Service. Sometimes an initial customs violation can fall within FBI jurisdiction and involve the latter agency in direct investigative assistance. Tracing fugitives and contraband over geographically far-flung areas is facilitated by the information systems exchange between the Treasury Enforcement Communications Systems of the Customs Service and FBI's National Crime Information Center is now accessible for tracing stolen and felony vehicle records as well as checks on persons entering the country. Computer technology is one of the vital cooperative links between law enforcement agencies at all levels. Illustrations are provided.