NCJ Number
77376
Date Published
1972
Length
52 pages
Annotation
This booklet for police officers describes local signs of organized crime activity and explains the officers' role in developing intelligence information for use in prosecuting organized crime figures.
Abstract
It notes that many authorities describe organized crime as one of the Nation's foremost long-range problems and that officers on patrol occupy key positions in the first line of defense -- and offense -- against organized criminals. Each patrolman, deputy, and trooper is seen as part of a potential, vast, intelligence network that can funnel information back up the line to be pieced together and evaluated. Without this assistance, departments' special units or squads would operate at a severe disadvantage. The text defines organized crime, distinguishing it from street crime and crime rings; relates organized crime to the patrol officer's job, explaining how a lack of such crime could make police duties easier; and reviews the major activities of organized crime. Gambling is viewed as the most serious form of organized crime and as the major source of funds for other operations. Bookmaking and lottery games are described, and the gambling hierarchy, which starts with the street bookie, is depicted. Loan sharking -- the second largest source of income -- as well as narcotics, prostitution, hijacking, fencing, and labor racketeering activities also receive attention. Organized crime's involvement in legitimate business as an investment opportunity, a source of reportable income for tax purposes, and respectability is given special consideration. A list of 25 indicators of organized crime activity is included to help officers spot operations or meetings. The elements of a good police report are reviewed, and the handling of attempts at police corruption is explained. A reference list is not provided.