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This book examines the use of social network analysis (SNA) in operational environments from the perspective of those who actually apply it. A rapidly growing body of literature suggests that SNA can reveal significant insights into the overall structure of criminal networks as well as the position of critical actors within such groups. This book draws on the existing SNA and intelligence literature, as well as qualitative interviews with crime intelligence analysts from two Australian state law enforcement agencies to understand its use by law enforcement agencies and the extent to which it can be used in practice. It includes a discussion of the challenges that analysts face when attempting to apply various network analysis techniques to criminal networks. Overall, it advances SNA as an investigative tool, and provides a significant contribution to the field that will be of interest to both researchers and practitioners interested in social network analysis, intelligence analysisand law enforcement.
List of contents
1. Introduction - Intelligence-Led Policing, Crime Intelligence And Social Network Analysis.- 2. Social Network Analysis In The Field Of Crime Intelligence: Historical Development, Application And Limitations.- 3. Social Network Analaysis And Crime Intelligence.- 4. Social Network Analysis And The Characteristics Of Criminal Networks.- 5. Social Network Analysis And The Organisational Characteristics Of Law Enforcement Agencies: Investigative Focus.- 6. Social Network Analysis And The Organisational Characteristics Of Law Enforcement Agencies: Working Relationships.- 7. Social Network Analysis And The Organisational Characteristics Of Law Enforcement Agencies: It Software, Systems And Training.- 8. Conclusion: Social Network Analysis And The Characteristics Of Criminal Networks And Law Enforcement.
About the author
Morgan Burcher is Honorary Fellow at Deakin University, Australia.
