NCJ Number
175366
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 14 Issue: 4 Dated: November 1998 Pages: 398-427
Date Published
1998
Length
30 pages
Annotation
The policing of organized crime is examined with respect to three structural, procedural, and policy aspects; the similarities and differences between organized crime investigations in Canada and the United States; and a possible shift in Canadian policing toward the United States model.
Abstract
The analysis focuses on the structure of investigative agencies dedicated to containing organized crime; the relationship between the police and the prosecutorial authority; and the use of forfeiture laws and decisions as to who should receive the forfeited illicit proceeds. It notes that globalism in crime points to the need for a degree of uniformity in law enforcement across jurisdictions to target transnational criminals. Thus, countries experience pressures to meet new international standards and to enact legislation compatible with laws and procedures in other jurisdictions. The analysis of the United States and Canada demonstrates some pull toward the United States way of doing police work, although the merit of these shifts remains unresolved. Thus, empirical data are essential for an informed discussion on the range of consequences that can be predicted from any significant shift in policing strategies. Notes and 46 references (Author abstract modified)