Intelligent investigations: the use and misuse of intelligence – a personal perspective

Purpose - This paper aims to address in a comparative context the role of intelligence in law enforcement and in particular the significance of intelligence‐led policing. Design/methodology/approach - The discussion is based on the experience of the author over the last 40 years in working in and with law enforcement authorities in a number of countries in establishing specialised agencies and units to address serious and complex criminal activity. The paper was presented as a key note address at an inter‐governmental meeting in Buenos Aires in July 2012 of prosecutor generals and senior prosecutorial officials in South America. Findings - The role of intelligence is seen as of critical importance to the efficacy of such initiatives. Drawing on his experience, the author poses some serious questions as to whether what is normally understood by the concept of intelligence‐led policing is correct. Research limitations/implications - The personal observations of the author will hopefully contribute to the discussion of an important aspect of law enforcement upon which very little has been written from the perspective of the intelligence community. Practical implications - The author looks in particular at the difficulties that have arisen as a result of the interaction of different aspects of the legal system, for the flow and reliability of financial information. In particular, he addresses a number of recent cases before the English courts on the liability of those who handle other people's wealth. Originality/value - The paper, based on the author's experience over the last 40 years, should contribute to the discussion of an important aspect of law enforcement upon which very little has been written from the perspective of the intelligence community.