Policing Innovation in Canada: The Criminal Civilian Investigator Role in Cybercrime and Financial Crime Units

• In Event: Cybercrime Policing

Abstract

This research focuses on the growing presence of civilians in operational roles within policing organizations, particularly as investigators in specialized units. This presentation aims to advance our understanding of the new Criminal Civilian Investigator (CCI) role in Canada's cybercrime and financial crime units. Specifically, we describe the recruitment strategies, the mandatory training program, and the ongoing training resources available, and we discuss the organizational adaptation factors for this specific role. Additionally, the study seeks to identify challenges in integrating civilian investigators, such as organizational, cultural and technological aspects to be considered. The research also aims to assess how civilian investigators can enhance police organizations' effectiveness in addressing cybercrime and financial crime challenges, focusing on their roles in investigation processes, evidence collection, and collaboration with sworn members. Based on the analysis of 20 semi-structured interviews with CCIs, the results address a crucial contemporary development in law enforcement and aim to shed light on integrating civilian investigators into these units. By analyzing their experiences, challenges, and contributions, we provide recommendations for optimizing the implementation of civilian investigators, aiming to improve organizational responses to these complex crime problems.

Authors

• Marie-Pier Villeneuve-Dubuc, Université de Montréal

• Chad Whelan, Deakin University

• Benoît Dupont, Université de Montréal