Specific Features of Investigating Crimes Involving the Use of Bioweapons

Abstract

The author examines key forms and consequences of bioterrorist attacks and the international experience of counteracting such crimes in order to determine the methods and techniques of investigating bioterrorist crimes, and to analyze their effectiveness. The author also describes the difficulties of investigating crimes connected with the use of bioweapons, stresses the considerable progress made in the identification and description of the features of biological agents used in bioterrorist attacks, as well as in the coordination and communication between different agencies and organizations involved in the investigation of bioterrorism. The previously developed methodological recommendations on investigating this type of crime require rethinking and updating, and even more so because technological progress and increased awareness of the threats of bioterrorism lead to the development of new instruments and methods for identifying and determining the features of biological agents, as well as to the improvement of communication and coordination between various agencies and organizations participating in the investigation of bioterrorism. Studying the international experience of investigating bioterrorist crimes is of considerable importance. The investigation of bioterrorist attacks poses a number of problems connected with the nature of used biological agents and the complex character of search and cognitive activities of persons conducting the investigation: identification of the used biological agents; determining the place and time when the biological agent was used; finding and identifying persons involved in the terrorist act; ensuring the safety of experts and personnel working at the crime scene; information support of the investigation; need for the investigators to have special training and experience, etc. The possibility of the so-called “unconscious” biological terrorism should also be noted. The author concludes that a steady stream of investment in research and development, as well as the education and training of investigators are necessary for counteracting the constant threat of bioterrorism and for ensuring the development and implementation of proper response measures in case of a bioterrorist attack.