International Research and the Federal Role (From Transnational Crime: Investigative Responses, P 1-7, 1989, Harold E Smith, ed. -- See NCJ-120383)

• NCJ Number: 120384
• Author(s): J K Stewart
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 7 pages
• Sale Source: University of Illinois at Chicago
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Paper presented at the 3rd Annual Symposium on International Criminal Justice Issues, University of Illinois at Chicago

Annotation

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) conducts technological and policy-related research that encompasses domestic and international terrorism, hostage negotiations, drug trafficking and money laundering, and violent criminal investigation and apprehension.

Abstract

In the technological area, the NIJ has identified six potentially suitable compounds that may be safe and effective for use in less-than-lethal weapons. Policy-related research focuses on the development of model response plans to help State and local authorities prevent or respond to terrorist incidents. Other areas of policy-related research emphasize hostage negotiations and the development of a definitive typology of hostage takers, international drug trafficking and money laundering, and international terrorism. The NIJ recognizes the need for improved international legal cooperation in criminal justice matters, particularly with regard to terrorism and narcotics. In cooperation with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the NIJ has developed a program known as VICAP (Violent Criminal Apprehension Program). VICAP is a national data center designed to help police identify violent criminals such as serial murderers who move from place to place. This program is effective domestically, but an international system is needed to coordinate computerized efforts and technological advances such as genetic fingerprinting among countries.