The use of forensic case data in intelligence-led policing: The example of drug profiling

Publication Type:
Journal Article
Citation:
Forensic Science International, 2013, 226 (1-3), pp. 1 - 9
Issue Date:
2013-03-10
Filename Description Size
Thumbnail2012002053OK.pdf546.18 kB
Adobe PDF
Full metadata record
To date, forensic science has predominantly focused on generating evidence for judicial proceedings. While many recognise its broader and important contribution to the initial stages of the forensic process, resources do not seem to be employed efficiently. It is often discovered retrospectively that necessary information was previously available in a database or within existing files. Such information could have been proactively used in order to solve a particular case, a number of linked cases or better understand the criminal activity as a whole. This article reviews this broader contribution of forensic science, with a particular emphasis on drug intelligence at the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in Australia. Using the AFP as a model organisation, an overview of the current situation and the contribution of physical and chemical profiling are first discussed. The situation in Europe, and in particular in Switzerland, is also presented. It is argued that a change of attitude towards a more intelligence-led perspective is required in forensic science in general, and in drug profiling in particular. © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: