ABSTRACT
In a rapidly changing societal environment characterized by increases in communication, technology, travel, social mobility, economic changes, and growth in immigration, police departments are finding themselves involved in new or changing forms of crime that will have an impact on the investigative function. These types of crimes will involve new investigative approaches, a greater reliance on technology, and cooperative relationships with other law enforcement agencies and the private-security sector. These crimes include but are not limited to identity theft, Internet fraud, the exploitation of women and children for criminal purposes, child pornography, human trafficking, home invasions, con or “scam” operations, theft of and illegal transport of artwork and cultural objects, manufacture and sale of copies and knockoffs, illegal securing and sale of body parts, violence and criminal activities in schools, and Satanism, cult behavior, or ritualistic activities. The impact of global crime should not be underestimated.
