Proposing a Theoretical Framework for the Criminal Investigation of Human Trafficking Crimes

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.

Sensemaking and evidence in criminal investigations of organised crime: A literature review

“…Several studies of criminal investigations illustrate the different phases that can be distinguished (Bjelland and Vestby, 2017; Bokhorst et al, 2011; de Poot et al, 2004; Innes, 2002; Pajón and Walsh, 2020; Stelfox, 2009). Not all of these studies are concerned with criminal investigations into cases of organised crime.…”

“…A criminal investigation can be divided into four phases, each with a different focus of activities: instigation (to determine investigation goals), team preparation (to assemble and prepare the investigation team), investigation (to produce the evidence that defines a criminal situation and identifies the responsible person), and case construction (to provide a convincing presentation of the evidence). Of the four phases, the investigation phase is focused most directly on producing evidence (Bjelland and Vestby, 2017; Bokhorst et al, 2011; de Poot et al, 2004; Innes, 2002; Pajón and Walsh, 2020; Stelfox, 2009).…”

“…After the decision is made to start a criminal investigation, what can be called the 'team preparation phase' is concerned with preparing criminal investigators to conduct the investigation. In their study of criminal investigations into human trafficking, Pajón and Walsh (2020) found that establishing a team is a large concern. Human resources are always constrained, and who should be part of the investigation is often up for debate.…”

Can Psychological Assessment contribute to a better world? Our discipline’s contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030

“…It is therefore of no surprise that principles of psychological assessment have found their way into international standards like the ISO 10667. The contribution of assessment to this goal is not limited to work and organizational settings, it may also play a very important role for uncovering the factors contribute the most to wage slavery or other forms of modern slavery (Pajón & Walsh, 2018), thus building towards the goal of attaining more decent work by 2030. 9.…”

Can Psychological Assessment Contribute to a Better World?

“…It is, therefore, of no surprise that principles of psychological assessment have found their way into international standards like ISO 10667. The contribution of assessment to this goal is not limited to work and organizational settings; it may also play a very important role in uncovering the factors that contribute the most to wage slavery or other forms of modern slavery (Pajón & Walsh, 2018), thus building toward the goal of attaining more decent work by 2030. Industry, innovation, and infrastructure. As in goals 6 and 7, the assessment of attitudes and behavior changes plays a major role.…”