Citation

Horne JS. Acta Criminol. 2009; 22(1): 68-80.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Criminological Society of South Africa)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Crime information analysis has proven to be a key component in the armoury of specialists and experts who wish to prevent and investigate crime more successfully. In the forensic investigation of crime, it forms an integral and disciplined part of the crime intelligence cycle. Its detailed and analytical nature can provide timely and pertinent information that allows law enforcers to accurately determine the nature of criminal activities, predict crime occurrences and identify perpetrators responsible for offences. The heart of crime information analysis is centred within its systematic approach, which entails a sound process of collection, collation, analysis, dissemination and feedback of crime information. The important role of crime information analysis cannot be underestimated and its principles and techniques must therefore be applied vigorously to intensify the fight against crime in South Africa. The focus of this paper is on the responsibility of police members belonging to a particular public service organisation to analyse crime information. This research provided sufficient evidence that the application of crime information analysis within a public sector environment responsible for policing has not yet been fully internalised and applied to reap the benefits of the effective prevention and investigation of crime.