4 - Law Enforcement Information Systems

Abstract

This chapter discusses law enforcement information systems. Law enforcement information systems are found on the international, national, regional, and municipal levels. It is the goal of law enforcement information systems not only to make pertinent information easily and quickly available to the law enforcement officer involved in the day-to-day operations but also to provide the crime statistics and information essential to effective police planning and crime prevention. Interpol's principal functions are the recording, analysis, and dissemination of information contributed by the police of member nations. Its interests cover three main categories: criminals who operate in more than one country, criminals who remain in one country but whose crimes affect other countries, and criminals who commit crimes in one country and then flee to other countries to escape the consequences of their actions. Law enforcement officers are keenly aware of their oaths to enforce the law without fear or favor and in a dispassionate manner. They are also highly conscious of the adverse effects that a prior criminal history can have on the life chances of an individual who sincerely wishes to avoid future criminal involvement.