TTPS QUARTERLY No.1 (1)

to an objective, decision-making framework that facilitates crime
and problem reduction, and prevention through both strategic
management and effective enforcement strategies that target
prolific and serious offenders.
To be effective in the reduction of violence and organised crime in
Trinidad and Tobago it became necessary for the TTPS to
proficiently blend crime analysis and criminal intelligence which
can provide answers to why it is happening. These two
components, used in combination, are essential to a more
complete understanding of criminality that is necessary to
formulate effective crime control. The integrated analysis model
will allow the TTPS executive and commanders to see the big
picture of criminality and from this knowledge access a wider
range of enforcement options.
However, the hindrances to the development of this model are
not significant and will require a better understanding by TTPS
commanders of the business model that is modern
intelligence-led policing. For example, problems identified in the
TTPS include: issues of civilianization, case-specific thinking
instead of concentrating on the big picture and terminology
between crime analysts and criminal; intelligence officers,
isolationist, and lack of training and education. Most importantly,
there is resistance due to police culture and a lack of
leadership from some police executives. Perhaps the
most pressing issue – one that is crucial for the success of
intelligence-led and evidence based policing, is proper
training of commanders and police executive.
Many police leaders received their training and initiation into
policing in a different time when investigators were the only
people who used covert information and experience was the
key to promotion into leadership positions. Information
resources beyond the odd map with some pins were
generally unheard of, and experience and gut feeling were
the compass that guided most senior officers. Reactive,
case-by-case investigation is now known to be ineffective in
stemming the flow of crime, and covert and information
resources have to be used more strategically.
Intelligence-led and evidence based policing requires a
greater integration of covert information, criminal
intelligence, and crime analysis to better manage risk and to
support proactive and predictive policing that targets
enforcement and promotes crime prevention. Integrated
analysis requires police leaders to learn and embrace a new
way of thinking about knowledge and risk, and it also
demands a new organizational approach for the TTPS.
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