A primary function of law enforcement is the gathering of information. However, information by itself does little to support the law enforcement mission. Intelligence, in the context of law enforcement, is the outcome of rigorous analysis of information, and often generates key decisions and/or guides tactical strategies that help facilitate the enforcement mission. This course examines the role of information and intelligence in defining and achieving the law enforcement mission. Problem solving tools such as SARA, and management tools like COMPSTAT, which rely heavily on both information and intelligence, are discussed. Finally, in a world now defined by the threat of terrorism, the course examines the sharing (and sometimes lack of sharing) of information and intelligence among local law enforcement and federal agencies and the impact of this sometimes contentious relationship.
