Citation

Pajon L, Walsh D. Policing (Oxford) 2020; 14(2): 493-511.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Oxford University Press)

DOI

10.1093/police/pay031

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Human Trafficking (HT) is considered as one of the most complex crimes to investigate. However, to date, little research has been conducted concerning what occurs during criminal investigations of HT. The present study, through interviewing 21 highly experienced and senior professionals from law enforcement agencies and governmental bodies in the UK, conceptualizes HT investigations under a common framework that underpins a model for the investigation of these crimes. Data from these narratives reveals that a total number of 22 investigative actions are commonly taken throughout the investigative process, following an apparent sequential route. While participants disagreed as to when/how to initiate and conclude an investigation, absolute agreement existed when considering multi-agency collaboration, tactical advice and support, and intelligence sharing (as core elements in HT criminal investigations). Such data enables both academic and practitioner communities to better identify what are effective investigation actions when these crimes are investigated.

Language: en