Research on Facilitators of Transnational Organized Crime: Understanding Crime Networks' Logistical Support

• NCJ Number: 254631
• Date Published: December 2018
• Length: 24 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2013-R2-CX-0046
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Report (Grant Sponsored)

Annotation

This is the Final Summary Overview of the methodology and findings of a study that profiled criminal facilitators who assist transnational crime organizations (TOCFs) in conducting their illegal activities across national borders by providing infrastructure or logistical support, other resources, and services to TOC networks.

Abstract

This study developed a method for identifying TOCFs within existing datasets and extended the available descriptive information on TOCFs through analysis of pre-sentence investigation reports (PSRs). The first phase of the study developed a methodology for identifying TOCFs; and the second step screened PSRs to validate the methodology and systematically collect data on TOCFs and their organizations. The study's ultimate goal was the development of a predictive model that can be used to identify TOCFs. This summary report outlines the steps completed in each phase of the project. The study succeeded in applying electronic demographic and sentencing data maintained by USSC to the development of a statistical model that identifies a population of offenders that are difficult to identify among felons sentenced in the federal system. The PSRs were essential in validating and developing the model, and they also proved that once a sample is identified, the PSRs provide information on those identified as facilitators of transnational organized crime. 2 figures, a 65-listings bibliography, and appended federal statutes of interest and USSC monitoring data variables of interest