The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Criminal Investigations

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an increasingly powerful tool in various industries, and law enforcement is no exception. The integration of AI in criminal investigations has transformed the way law enforcement agencies gather and analyze evidence, identify suspects, and prevent crime. With its ability to process vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, AI has revolutionized the landscape of modern policing. In this article, we will explore the use of artificial intelligence in criminal investigations, its applications, benefits, and potential challenges.

1. Data Analysis and Pattern Recognition:

One of the most significant advantages of AI in criminal investigations is its capability to analyze large datasets rapidly. AI algorithms can identify patterns, trends, and anomalies that might be undetectable to human investigators. This data analysis helps law enforcement agencies identify crime hotspots, predict potential criminal activity, and allocate resources more effectively.

2. Facial Recognition and Suspect Identification:

AI-powered facial recognition technology has proven instrumental in identifying suspects in criminal cases. Law enforcement agencies can compare images of suspects captured from surveillance cameras or social media against vast databases to find potential matches. This expedites the identification process and enhances the chances of apprehending offenders swiftly.

3. Natural Language Processing and Speech Analysis:

AI's natural language processing abilities enable law enforcement agencies to analyze vast amounts of text data, such as witness statements, social media posts, and other digital communication. This assists investigators in identifying crucial information, connections between individuals, and potential motives related to criminal cases.

4. Predictive Policing:

AI algorithms can analyze historical crime data and current trends to predict future criminal activity in specific areas. This approach, known as predictive policing, allows law enforcement to deploy resources preemptively to prevent crimes before they occur. However, ethical concerns surrounding potential biases and civil liberties have been raised in the context of predictive policing.

5. Investigative Support and Case Linkage:

AI-powered tools can assist investigators in linking seemingly unrelated cases by identifying common elements and patterns. This functionality allows law enforcement agencies to solve complex crimes, including serial offenses, more efficiently. The ability to link cases improves the likelihood of apprehending repeat offenders and bringing them to justice.

6. Evidence Analysis:

AI can streamline the analysis of forensic evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics. Automated systems can process evidence more quickly, reducing backlogs and allowing investigators to focus on critical aspects of the case.

Benefits of AI in Criminal Investigations:

• Increased Efficiency: AI can handle data processing tasks at a much faster rate than humans, significantly improving investigation timelines.

• Enhanced Accuracy: AI algorithms are less prone to human error, leading to more accurate results in evidence analysis and suspect identification.

• Resource Optimization: Predictive policing and data analysis allow law enforcement agencies to allocate resources more effectively, improving overall crime prevention and response.

• Solving Complex Cases: AI's ability to detect patterns and link seemingly unrelated cases aids in solving intricate and long-standing criminal investigations.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Bias and Fairness: Ensuring that AI algorithms are free from bias and provide equitable outcomes remains a critical challenge, as biased data can lead to biased results.

• Privacy Concerns: The use of AI in surveillance and data analysis raises privacy concerns, necessitating clear guidelines for the ethical and responsible use of AI in criminal investigations.

• Transparency: The workings of AI algorithms can be complex and challenging to interpret. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to be transparent about their AI systems' functionalities and decision-making processes.

• Ethical Dilemmas: The use of AI in policing raises ethical questions, such as accountability for AI-generated decisions and the impact of AI on civil liberties.

Conclusion:

The integration of artificial intelligence in criminal investigations offers numerous benefits, from enhancing investigative efficiency to improving crime prevention efforts. However, as AI becomes more prominent in law enforcement, it is essential to address ethical concerns, ensure transparency, and strike a balance between technological advancements and preserving civil liberties. By leveraging AI responsibly and ethically, law enforcement agencies can harness its potential to revolutionize modern policing and make communities safer for everyone.

Air Force Office of Special Investigations

On August 7, 2009, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion with Colonel Michael Angley, USAF (ret.), formerly of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

Program Date: August 7, 2009
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Air Force Office of Special Investigations
Listen Live:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/08/08/Air-Force-Office-of-Special-Investigations

About the Guest
Colonel Michael Angley, USAF (ret.) is a retired Special Agent of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI). The OSI is the Air Force equivalent of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), was modeled after the FBI, and has dual missions: felony-level criminal investigations and counterintelligence operations.

During Colonel Michael Angley’s 25-year OSI career, he has literally “seen it all.” When he was a young Special Agent in northern California he worked a number of undercover narcotics operations targeting Air Force jet mechanics that were using, selling, and distributing a variety of narcotics. Following a firm grounding in criminal investigations, to include, murder, arson, and child crime cases, Michael Angley began to specialize in counterintelligence operations. During his career he held thirteen different assignments worldwide, with most of his overseas time in the Far East and Middle East. In 1996 Michael Angley took command of all OSI units in the Middle East where he was responsible for operations in 23 countries. He established groundbreaking concepts for the conduct of counterterrorism programs that led the way to current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. When Michael Angley retired in 2007, he was the Commander of OSI Region 8, Air Force Space Command, Peterson AFB, Colorado. He was responsible for all OSI criminal investigations and counterintelligence operations at thirteen Air Force Space Command locations in the United States. Colonel Michael Angley is the author of Child Finder.

About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2009/08/08/Air-Force-Office-of-Special-Investigations

Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530

Law Enforcement Intelligence Operations

On November 7, 2008, Conversations with Cops at the Watering Hole will feature a conversation with Captain Franks S. Root, Arizona Department of Public Safety (ret.) on law enforcement intelligence operations.

Program Date: November 7, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Law Enforcement Intelligence Operations
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2008/11/08/Law-Enforcement-Intelligence-Operations

About the Guest
Frank S. Root has more than 35 years in law enforcement and intelligence operations with special emphasis on complex intelligence investigations organization and case management. During his law enforcement career he worked for the Arizona Department of Public Safety (20 years, retired as Captain); San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Office (Automation and Crime Analysis Unit); and, State of California, Division of Investigation (conducting criminal investigations involving identity theft, insurance, and consumer fraud)

Frank S. Root is the author of Law Enforcement Intelligence Critical Elements which “is described as a publication designed to demonstrate how to identify, develop, and deliver the various intelligence-related products and services required to effectively support law enforcement intelligence and operational managers at each management level within an agency.”

About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, law enforcement technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement/2008/11/08/Law-Enforcement-Intelligence-Operations

Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530

Public Safety Technology in the News

Transit Police Look At Text-Messaging
Washington Post, (09/14/2008), Lena H. Sun

Metro Transit Police are considering joining the growing number of Law enforcement agencies that allow citizens to report crimes through text messaging. Text messaging will not replace other ways of reporting problems, such as alerting train operators or calling the Transit Police. But sending a text message from a cell phone or BlackBerry could help passengers who feel intimated or threatened if they openly report criminal activity using the train intercom or phone. Transit Police plan to test the idea using Metro employees who have Blackberrys. The employees will use text messaging to report problems they encounter during their daily routine. Other agencies in the Washington, D.C. area that have text-messaging programs include the Metropolitan Police Department and the Fairfax County (Virginia) Police Department.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/13/AR2008091302194.html

Missing Boy Found With Radio Device
WCBV-TV Boston, (09/14/2008)

Rescuers in Massachusetts found a 10-year-old autistic boy only 18 minutes after he disappeared thanks to a tracking device the boy was wearing. The boy was with his caregiver near his home in Sherborn when he ran into the woods. Firefighters found the boy quickly because of a tracking device provided by Project Lifesaver International that is worn on the ankle and emits a tracking signal. Project Lifesaver International said average recovery time for people wearing the device is less than 30 minutes.
www.thebostonchannel.com/news/17471963/detail.html

Sheltering a Sex Offender in Texas? Check the Database!
Government technology, (09/12/2008), Corey Mckenna

To aid emergency shelters and protect evacuees during Hurricane Ike, Texas authorities established a 24-hour, toll-free emergency hotline to identify sex offenders. The hotline established by the state Office of the Attorney General allows shelter personnel to call, fax or e-mail inquiries as to whether an evacuee is a registered sex offender. Law enforcement officials then access and share information through database searches. Shelter managers can then coordinate special housing if necessary. In December 2007 Texas began using a statewide citizen-evacuation management tracking system. In the event of an emergency, evacuees are registered and issued a barcoded RFID wristband as they board an evacuee bus. The buses are equipped with GPS systems, and when they reach their destination, the evacuees information is updated. This allows state employees to respond to inquires from family members and help reunite families separated during a disaster.
www.govtech.com/gt/410273?topic=117680

Tough Life Approaching for Criminals
WIBV-TV, (09/12/2008)

Crime solving in New York's Erie County just got a little easier. The new $5 million Erie County Crime Analysis Center links more than 20 Law enforcement agencies by sharing intelligence data. Ten trained analysts man the center. Analysis involves a variety of criminal activity and criminals who may be on the move. The computer also processes information to help identify crime patterns and hotspots.
www.wivb.com/Global/story.asp?S=9000582

Security Begins At Home
The Sun Chronicle, (09/11/2008), Rick Foster

Massachusetts is implementing a Statewide Information Sharing System for Law enforcement. When fully operational, the system, known as SWISS, will collect and store information from Law enforcement agencies in all of the state's 351 cities and towns. SWISS will also connect to databases in all 50 states and the FBI. Data could be accessed in police cruisers using laptop computers. Several jurisdictions in the state already link to each other under their own system that allows officers to share data on criminal investigations and vehicle records. Existing database sharing systems will be able to share information with SWISS.
www.thesunchronicle.com/articles/2008/09/11/news/3621981.txt

Caught on the Web
Santa Barbara Independent, (09/14/2008), Chris Meagher

Social networking sites in the Internet are providing Law enforcement with additional tools to fight crime. Sites such as MySpace.com and Facebook.com can reveal clues to an individual's activities, such as gang membership. MySpace distributes a Law enforcement guide, and has a 24-hour hotline through which investigators can make emergency requests for information. To obtain access to information beyond what is available to the general public, Law enforcement must show a legal reason and obtain authority such as a search warrant or court order. Authorities can seek a subpoena to open an individual's private messages.
www.independent.com/news/2008/sep/14/caught-web/

False Alarms Common With GPS Monitoring
Connecticut Law Tribune, (09/22/2008), Douglas S. Malan and Paul Sussman

Law enforcement authorities who use global positioning systems (GPS) to monitor parolees are finding that the devices provide a surprising number of false alerts. A report prepared by the Indiana Department of Correction in 2007 found that while GPS is useful for tracking parolees' whereabouts, "loss of coverage and faulty alerts may prevent GPS technology from completing its intended task." The study said GPS could overwhelm police with faulty alerts, but that the number should drop as technology evolves. In Connecticut the GPS units tracking a released serial rapist registered 44 false alerts in 11 months, according to the man's attorney. A 2007 study in Arizona found that during the state's first year of using GPS monitoring, more than 350,000 false alerts were generated by 140 people wearing monitoring devices. Factors that can lead to false alarms include low batteries. About two dozen states use some form of GPS monitoring to track offenders.
www.ctlawtribune.com/getarticle.aspx?ID=31533

New FBI technology: eGuardian
Right Side News, (09/19/2008)

A new FBI system will allow local, state, and federal agencies to share and track terrorism information and suspicious activities. The eGuardian system is a spinoff of a classified tool called Guardian, which the FBI has been using internally for the past four years. FBI field offices uses Guardian to report suspicious activity and potential terrorism threats. The reports are analyzed by agents at FBI headquarters. With eGuardian, other agencies will be able to run searches and enter their own reports. eGuardian will be available to more than 18,000 agencies through the FBI's secure Law enforcement Online portal. Reports will be automatically sent to a central hub for review by FBI analysts, who will either monitor, close or refer the report to an FBI terror task force. eGuardian is being piloted by several agencies before being phased in nationwide later this year.
www.rightsidenews.com/200809191987/homeland-security/new-fbi-technology-eguardian.html

DNA Helps Solve Two Cold Case Murders
The Southern, (09/18/2008), Blackwell Thomas

A new technique for identifying DNA is helping police in Illinois solve old murder cases. The technique, known as Mini-STR sampling, enables authorities to use damaged or decayed DNA samples that would have previously been unusable. Police in Carbondale announced in September that they had closed a 1976 murder case using skin samples taken from under the fingernails of the female victim's left hand at the time of the autopsy 32 years ago. Police also closed a 1975 murder case. The identified suspect in both cases died in 1993 while on death row for the murder of a third woman. William Frank, a DNA research coordinator with the Illinois State Police lab, explained that compared to earlier technology, the new technology has increased by a factor of 100 the ability of scientists to identify DNA.
www.southernillinoisan.com/articles/2008/09/18/front_page/25943760.txt

Fake Identification a Thing of the Past?
Naples News, (09/11/2008), Ryan Mills

Two Florida Law enforcement agencies are testing a program to assist in positive identification of people using a portable electronic fingerprint device. Rapid ID scans two fingerprint images and compares them to a statewide database that contains information on 4 million individuals that have been arrested in Florida or are the subject of arrest warrants. The Collier County Sheriff's Office says the technology can come in handy when confusion exists over someone's identity, such as during a traffic stop. Driver's licenses can be altered or fraudulently copied. If Rapid ID produces a match, the individual's criminal history and warrants will be delivered to the computer in the deputy's car within minutes.
www.naplesnews.com/news/2008/sep/11/collier-county-sheriffs-office-pilots-fingerprint-

SWAT Operations

April 7, 2008 (San Dimas, CA) The April 9, 2008, program of Conversations with Cops at The Watering Hole focuses on SWAT operations with guest Kevin Barrett.

Program Date: April 9, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: SWAT Operations
Guests: Kevin Barrett
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement

About the Guest
Kevin Barrett is the Chairman/CEO of the International Tactical Officers Training Association and SWAT Digest. Kevin is currently active duty [15 years] for a municipal police department where he is assigned to a special response team (SWAT) as a primary entry team member. Kevin’s past assignments include criminal investigations, drug task force and patrol. He has participated in hundreds of tactical operations and has specialized training and experiences in close quarter battle (CQB), counter terrorism, dignitary protection, SCBA and linear assault operations. He is a court certified expert in clandestine laboratory investigation and operations (DEA/ CLET certifications.) Kevin attended Indiana State University and is a certified instructor through the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.

About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement

Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530

Defense Department Consolidates, Redefines Abuse Policies

By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

Oct. 18, 2007 - The Defense Department has consolidated 14 previous domestic abuse policies into one document that more clearly defines the roles and training of those who deal with the problem. The new publication, "Domestic Abuse Involving DoD Military and Certain Affiliated Personnel," was introduced by senior officials this month to coincide with the department's observance of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

"Providing a safe and wholesome environment for our families is a key quality-of-life objective. Publication of this instruction is a significant milestone for the department of Defense and represents a major step forward in our efforts to prevent domestic abuse," said Leslye A. Arsht, deputy undersecretary of defense for military community and family policy. "Domestic violence destroys families, scars children and harms military readiness. ... We will continue to work to ensure that every home is a safe home."

The publication more clearly defines roles and training requirements for those the department calls "key responders," said Mike Hoskins, a special assistant in the Office of the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy. Key responders include local commanders, law enforcement officials, legal representatives, health care providers, family advocacy staff and chaplains.

The publication is the result of an effort that started more than six years ago with a congressionally mandated task force formed to help the department stop domestic violence within its ranks. After three years, the panel made nearly 200 recommendations to the department on how to improve its response to reports of domestic violence.

Most of the recommendations are addressed in the new publication, Hoskins said, and include:

-- The need for a comprehensive, coordinated community response to reports of abuse;

-- The requirement to seek agreements with civilian counterparts to increase information sharing regarding abuse incidents;

-- Training needed for key responders; and

-- The need for the Defense Department to conduct sound criminal investigations of domestic abuse reported to the system.

Since the task force made its recommendations, there have been several initiatives and additional funding addressing domestic violence within the department, Hoskins said. Also, initiatives were launched in cooperation with other federal agencies. For example, the Defense and Justice departments teamed to train victim advocates and law enforcement personnel, Hoskins said.

In 1998, the reported rate of spouse abuse in the Defense Department was about 20 per every 1,000 families. In 2006 that dropped by about half, for 313 reports of domestic violence.

But, Hoskins said, "The true scope of the problem is difficult to understand." He said reporting has historically been inconsistent between agencies investigating incidents. Officials say domestic violence is one of the most underreported crimes in the country.

"We shouldn't necessarily take comfort in reduced rates of domestic violence. It is highly likely that is a good-news story, in that prevention, education and awareness efforts are working, but we need to be also cognizant of the possibility that we are making it more difficult for victims to come forward and receive assistance. So we have to interpret with caution those numbers," Hoskins said.

Hoskins said that reported victims of domestic violence are all ages, sexes and military ranks, but the majority are women. A common misconception, he said, is that abuse can be caused by stress or deployments.

"I think some of the most common misperceptions are that it is caused by stress, anger, alcohol, deployment, and although abusers may certainly experience those, they do not cause domestic abuse. Individuals choose whether or not they are going to be abusive," Hoskins said. "In fact, if everyone in our system who experienced stress, anger, deployment in fact were abusive, we would have numbers that would be so high that we wouldn't know what to do with them."

Hoskins said sometimes victims are afraid to come forward because of the fear of damaging their spouse's military career. He said a report of abuse doesn't necessarily mean an end to a career or the family, but that the report should be handled as any other reported crime.

"The Defense Department has made it very clear that victims will be treated with dignity and respect and that offenders will be held appropriately accountable," Hoskins said.

"The goals of all the programs in the system haven't changed. Those are to help people live healthy lifestyles and, in those cases where families want to stay together, the focus is on helping them stay together," he said. "What we encourage commanders to do is to respond to reports of domestic abuse as they would the credible reports of any other crime, and to initiate ... a law enforcement investigation to determine if a crime occurred," he said.

Management, Investigations and the Inner Mind

October 13, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) Police-Writers.com is a website that lists over 760 state and local police officers who have written books. The website added cops who have written on management, investigations and the inner mind.

Charles Lushbaugh was a lieutenant with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department (California). He is the co-author of Criminal Investigations: Basic Perspectives. According to the book description, Criminal Investigations: Basic Perspectives is “designed to help readers discover both the art and science of criminal investigation, this book explores the legal significance of evidence in the field, outlines the fundamentals of inquiry, and then carefully details each element of investigation—from the preliminaries to case preparation for prosecutor review. Reflecting the most recent changes in techniques and their application to various crimes, it features real-life case studies that give readers practice in developing their abilities to analyze, evaluate, and reason. Subjects covered are: Ethical Awareness; The Crime Scene; Witnesses and Evidence; Recording the Crime Scene; Basic Investigative Leads and Informants; Major Investigative Techniques; Laboratory and Technical Services; Interrogation of Suspects; Arresting the Accused Person; Physical Assaults; Sexual Assaults; Robbery; Arson; Bombing and Hate Crimes; Property Crimes; Dangerous Drugs; Vice/Gambling; and Organized Crimes.”

Fred R. Ferguson became the chief of police for the Salinas Police Department in the summer of 1977. He is the co-author of The Managing of Police Operations. According to the book description, “The Managing of Police Organizations, now in its fifth edition, is still THE essential text for any course in police organization and management, as well as for officers studying for promotional exams. While most texts in this area focus only on the basics on how to pass a promotional exam, this text takes a stronger and more prescriptive approach that teaches the reader exactly what he or she can do to create a stronger and more effective agency.

With a complete look at how to manage a police organization, including leadership strategies, stress management, and police community relations, The Managing of Police Organizations is the only choice for a complete understanding of police management.”

A.L. Ward is a highly acclaimed experienced Hypnotist, Healer and Instructor with a 51-year track record. His contribution to a massive research project proved that hypnosis corrected 'non-medically responsive' health problems and that a universally consistent pattern of negative emotions caused the physical deficiencies. He was educated in schools in California, and served with the Navy on the aircraft carrier Intrepid from 1943-1945. On returning home he obtained a commercial pilots license with a flight instructors rating. He joined the San Bernardino Police Department in 1955 and retired in 1980. Following retirement he earned a lifetime California Community College teaching credential in police science.

He is the author of two books: The Inner Mind Revisited and Heaven: The Road Back Home. According to The Inner Mind Revisited, it “is a unique book whose direct approach brings thought provoking testimony to the growing evidence that the mind of man is capable of penetrating into the world beyond. It is a significant contribution to the better understanding of hypnosis and the Soul of man. The author prods the mind of the reader into a new spiritual awareness and the certainty that a pattern and purpose in life lies within the inner mind of every individual. The book also lists over forty different medical problems, some determined incurable by the medical profession, which were resolved in his one-hour hypnotic process.”

Police-Writers.com now hosts 771 police officers (representing 350 police departments) and their 1654 law enforcement books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.

Disguised Weapons

The mission of the California Department of Justice, Division of Law Enforcement, is to provide its customers and clients extraordinary service in forensic services, forensic education, narcotic investigations, criminal investigations, intelligence, and training. In support of this mission, the Division’s Criminal Intelligence Bureau’s (CIB) Organized Crime Analysis Unit conducted an in-depth intelligence-gathering and examination effort into law enforcement safety handbook.

The Disguised Weapons Handbook is a quarterly report to inform law enforcement officers of what new items are available to suspects. In addition, the purpose is to inform law enforcement of the creativity some suspects have when converting everyday items into homemade weapons. The information contained in this report was obtained from various law enforcement sources and databases. Many of the weapons shown in this publication have websites listed where items can be viewed in greater detail.

DOWNLOAD THE HANDBOOK HERE
http://www.police-writers.com/disguised_weapons.html

Preventing Terrorist Suicide Attacks by Michael Aman

As a subject matter expert in law enforcement, I often take assignments as a pre-publication technical reviewer for publishing houses. Some weeks ago I was asked to review the law enforcement related portion of an upcoming Administration of Criminal Justice text book for Jones and Barlett Publishers. In addition to monetary compensation, I was allowed to choose a copy of any of their titles. Naturally, I choose a book written by a cop and that was listed on www.police-writers.com.

Michael Aman, a detective with the El Paso Police Department (Texas) is the author of Preventing Terrorist Suicide Attacks. Michael Aman’s book is a practical look at suicide attacks and the information is squarely aimed at the first responders such as police officers and security officials. While the book is brief, only 90 or so pages, it has an extraordinarily high ratio of words to ideas. That is, there is a ton of information succulently presented in the book.

The book is divided into two sections: the first discusses the terrorist and terrorists groups that use human beings as delivery mechanisms; the second section uses the terrorists’ own methodology as a means to explore prevention. As an example, in the first section, Michael Aman covers the objectives of a suicide tactics. This becomes important because by understanding objectives and motivation, the first responder gets a clearer picture on what to look for, beforehand.

In the second section Aman concentrates on presenting the reader with practical means for prevention. As an example, on page 44, Aman provides a simple, yet powerful matrix with which to evaluate potential targets. The section on prevention has checklists, prevention tips, self-assessment questions and clear learning objects.

While the book makes an excellent reference for the first responder, its hidden potential may be to first line supervisors in law enforcement and private security, and those officers involved in bomb disposal units. Michael Aman’s book was developed as a result of his teaching a course on the subject. Therefore, the book is a teaching tool. If you are supervisor (in law enforcement or security) you should own this book so that you can teach your subordinates. Michael Aman lays out a clear path for you to increase your knowledge and the discussion questions are perfect for training at briefings, etc. If you are working in a bomb disposal unit, well, you are an expert. But, Michael, again, has given you a tool, already designed to use as a means to share your knowledge and expertise within your organization and community.

About Michael Aman
Michael Aman was a commissioned officer in the German Air Force from 1984 to 1993. Upon immigrating to the United States he joined the El Paso Police Department and has risen to the rank of detective. Michael Aman has served in the Gang Unit, Cold Case Squad, Criminal Investigations Division, Dignitary Protection Unit, and the Patrol Division.

Michael Aman has an MBA from the German Armed Forces University. During his law enforcement career, Michael Aman Developed a course for law enforcement officials called “Defense Against Terrorist Suicide Attacks.” Eventually, that course let to the book Preventing Suicide Terrorist Attacks.

About the reviewer
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA is a 24 year veteran of law enforcement. In his retirement he is a university professor and writer. He is the author of Police Technology; Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style; and, is currently working on. From NYPD to LAPD: An Introduction to Policing. You can view Raymond’s complete CV at www.police-technology.net/raymond.foster.cv.html.

All Crooks Welcome, and other stories.

Police-Writers.com is a website that lists state and local police officers who have written books. The website added three police officers: John “Jack” Miller, Robert Sims Reid and Marc C. Barry.

John "Jack" Miller applied his first career in Law Enforcement and Criminal Investigations to his second career of Casino Games and their protection. Jack Miller was a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI) conducting investigations of felony crimes. These investigations also included counter-intelligence and counter-espionage investigations.

After retiring from the military, Jack Miller joined the Clark County District Attorneys office as a Special Investigator of "white collar" and conspiratorial crimes. He worked with undercover teams from the local Police and the FBI conducting burglary stings. He then joined the Nevada State Gaming Control Board (GCB) as an Enforcement Agent. He was certified by Nevada State and Federal Courts as an Expert witness during trials of gambling cheats.

John “Jack” Miller is the author of Cold War Warrior, All Crooks Welcome and Master Cheat! According to the book description of the true story, All Crooks Welcome, “the Las Vegas police are plagued with burglaries. Two detectives devise an ingenious scheme to combat the thieves and burglars. Pose as fences and buy the evidence from the crooks. With the help of the District Attorney’s office and the FBI, the sting is on. Join with the undercover law enforcement personnel as they solve the problems associated with a scheme never tried before. Be there as the crooks arrive with their ill-gotten gains. Enjoy the wrap-up party where the thieves expect one thing and get another.”

Robert Sims Reid was a detective for the Missoula Police Department (Montana). He is the author of six novels: Benediction, Cupid, Wild Animals, The Red Corvette, Max Holly and Big Blue Sky. According to Publisher’s Weekly, The Red Corvette is about “Old murder, old men and a sleepy Midwestern town whose French name suggests deep-rooted evil frame Reid's latest well-crafted mystery featuring retired Rozette, Montana, policeman Leo Banks. Sarah and Gerry Heyman, who were, respectively, Leo's major love and his best friend in college in the '60s, unexpectedly visit Rozette during a summer trip out West with their children. A few months later, Sarah calls to ask Leo to investigate Gerry's murder in the southern Illinois town of Mauvaisterre. Lots of small-town atmosphere, another death and the sins of fathers and sons lead to a rousing nighttime stampede during a harvest fair and a credible resolution”

Marc C. Barry was a police officer with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for 11 years. He started his career in July of 1989 as a patrolman on the streets of Las Vegas. Throughout his career he has been assigned to various select details such as: Organized Crime Bureau, Undercover Street Crimes Unit, Violent Crimes Federal Task Force and many others.

Marc Barry holds a number of accredited instructor certifications such as: Police Officer Standards Training/State Law Enforcement Instructor, NRA Tactical Police Firearms Instructor, Close Quarters Battle Instructor, H&K Master Sub-Machine Gun Instructor, State Law Enforcement Counter Terrorism Instructor, Urban Assault Tactics Instructor and various others. Marc Barry has directly trained over 2500 police officers, law enforcement agents and military Special Forces world-wide. Marc Barry is the author of Society's Warrior Class: Inside a Policeman's Mind.

Police-Writers.com now hosts 637 police officers (representing 281 police departments) and their 1363 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.