Intelligence cycle as the basis of analytical activity in combating drug-related crime

Abstract

The relevance of the research topic is related to the fact that in order to effectively address the problem of drug crime, it is necessary to develop and implement strategies based on the best practices, supported by scientific research, that optimise the use of law enforcement resources and limit the harm caused by drug trafficking. The purpose of this paper is to study the latest trends in the use of the intelligence cycle in the fight against crime, to create and describe a model of its application in the field of combating drug-related crime. To achieve the purpose of the research, the following scientific methods were used: terminological, systemic and structural, analysis, comparative analysis, modelling, formal and logical, generalisation, and expert evaluation. It is proved that for the effective and efficient organisation of analytical activities in the field of combating drug- related crime, a thorough understanding of and strict adherence to the stages of the intelligence cycle, which underlies criminal analysis, is crucial. It is concluded that the intelligence cycle is a flexible dynamic process that requires analysts to think critically and creatively, to respond meaningfully to new information, and to move through the stages of the intelligence cycle. The intelligence cycle was analysed, the analyst’s activities at each of the stages, specifically, during defining (setting) tasks and planning; collecting and evaluating data; generalising, systemising, and processing; analysing; preparing a report and submitting it to the customer; and receiving feedback, were highlighted. The findings of the study showed that the intelligence cycle is a universal tool that allows streamlining any activity related to information analysis, ensuring quality control and high-quality results of analytical work, specifically in the field of combating drug-related crime. The list of possible tasks of analytical work in the field of combating illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, their analogues and precursors, and summarised potential sources of information necessary for analysis, were summarised. The results of this study will be useful for heads of units involved in combating drug-related crime, employees who, according to their functional responsibilities, іimplement criminal analysis in combating drug-related crime, and scholars who research these issues