Investigation of Terrorist Activity (From Critical Issues in Criminal Investigations, Second Edition, P 235-245, 1988, Michael J Palmiotto, ed. -- See NCJ-109292)

• NCJ Number: 109303
• Author(s): C A Hertig
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 11 pages
• Sale Source: Anderson Publishing Co
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This discussion of the investigation of terrorist activity focuses on intelligence, social network analysis, crime scene investigation, and search procedures.

Abstract

Terrorist activities require many of the same investigative techniques as organized crime. The investigator may be involved in the identification of all coconspirators, aiders, and abetters; the pursuit of unapprehended parties; the investigation of arrestees and their potential for cooperation; the obtaining of additional information on suspects; and determining the location of terrorists and hostages. Regarding intelligence activity, efforts should focus on gathering information for long-term study and information helpful in predicting immediate, forthcoming terrorist incidents. Social network analysis is a technique used to show and clarify relationships between individuals and their functioning within a group. The crime scene investigation enables lab technicians to identify explosive residue, components, and accelerants; affords the opportunity for ballistic comparison; and allows investigators to re-enact the crime so that methods of approach, commission, and escape are identified. The investigation's success and the investigator's safety depend on effective searches in the following situations: crime scenes, bomb plants, raids on safehouses and compounds, arrestees' persons and personal effects, vehicles, and buildings. 2 figures, 4 notes, and 9 references.