Organizational Challenges in Investigating Online Child Sexual Exploitation

• In Event: POL Panel 11. Policing harmful sexual behaviour and online child sexual abuse and exploitation

Abstract

Investigating online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (CSEA) presents significant organizational hurdles for law enforcement agencies. These cases require a combination of digital expertise and knowledge about sexual offenses against children. As the modus of CSEA crime evolves with digital advancements, innovative approaches and organizational adaptability become crucial in the response. Moreover, the mental toll on investigators underscores the need for sustainable work practices. To address these challenges, this article explores central obstacles and organizational barriers related to collaborative approaches in CSEA investigations.
To map current challenges, we have conducted a qualitative study of current CSEA investigation in one police region in Sweden. We have analysed audit reports (approx. 140 pages), conducted interviews with strategic police management (n=3), conducted participant observation of management meetings (n=5) and organized a workshop with CSEA investigators (n=7) where we used participant driven graphic elicitation methods to construct investigation flowcharts to identify collaboration issues.
The results show that investigators face several challenges in collaborative approaches to investigating online CSEA. First, resource allocation was described as a constant problem due to varying case sizes—some cases start small but escalate quickly due to factors such as added accomplices, discovery of abuse material, and as more victims are identified. Second, while specialized CSEA investigators handle most cases, they require support from other police units. However, a widespread fear of these cases among non-specialized investigators complicates cross-functional collaboration which results in inefficient use of capacity as highly specialized investigators devote time to basic cases. Third, a longstanding culture of organizational ‘compartmentalization’ was described to hinder collaboration, as different branches of investigation remain separated. We discuss how these challenges pose serious problems to CSEA investigation practices as it hinders the use of new methods and innovative technologies, extends investigation times and affect overall results.

Authors

• Oscar Rantatalo, Umeå University

• Alva Lindholm, Umeå University

• Ola Lindberg, Umeå University

• Robert Lundmark, Umeå University