NCJ Number
206458
Date Published
2004
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Following an overview of the methods used to develop a profile of transnational policing in the English Channel region in the latter years of the 20th century as well as the underlying theoretical approach, this chapter presents pertinent data before arguing that policies for transnational policing must take into account the broader police mission rather than focusing exclusively on transnational organized crime.
Abstract
The author studied the transnational policing practices of police agencies in the English Channel region by examining records that pertained to trans-border police communications in the region. He was given access to the files of the European Liaison Unit (ELU) based at Longport Police Station adjacent to the entrance to the Channel Tunnel on the British side. The intent of this effort was to analyze and quantify the types of work undertaken by the ELU. The analysis of the work actually performed by the ELU indicates a broad range of policing activity that involves criminal activity across national borders. Activities clearly related to transnational organized crime composed only a proportion of the work of transnational police agents in western Europe. Future research should focus on the proportion of car theft due to organized crime and that due to criminals acting alone or in loosely affiliated groups. One of the adjustments researchers should make in their work, however, is to balance their focus between transnational organized crime and the remaining spectrum of police work. 3 notes and 34 references