NCJ Number
181343
Date Published
2000
Length
192 pages
Annotation
This report of the Federal Commission on the Advancement of Federal Law Enforcement identifies the challenges facing Federal law enforcement in a new century and a changing world, assesses the current preparedness of Federal law enforcement agencies for meeting these challenges, and offers recommendations for improving the administration of Federal law enforcement.
Abstract
The Commission identified several challenges that threaten the capacity to maintain and improve the system of Federal law enforcement. These are difficult coordination challenges, terrorism, the globalization of crime, the federalization of crime, and the maintenance of professionalism and demonstration of accountability. Based on its investigation, the Commission came to five broad policy conclusions about the performance of the Federal law enforcement system. First, the Federal Government's capacity for oversight and coordination is weak and needs improvement; in addition, the proliferation of small agencies should be discouraged and the function of Inspectors General reviewed. Second, terrorism, both domestic and foreign, threatens the Nation's security. Third, transnational crime presents extraordinary new challenges to law enforcement at all levels. Fourth, Congress and the president are in danger of federalizing common crime. Fifth, agency professionalism, integrity, and accountability can be improved; policy and practice among agencies should be standardized to a greater degree. The Commission presents a five-part action agenda designed to address the aforementioned concerns. A 112-item bibliography and appended Commission resource materials