Be-ForIntel: Building the foundations of a Forensic Intelligence tool in Belgium: the organisation of forensic data in Belgium

• In Event: POLWG Panel 15. The use of data, evidence and knowledge in Policing and Criminal Justice: Exploring legal boundaries, partnerships and power relations.

Abstract

Forensic data is crucial in Belgian criminal investigations, aiding in solving and preventing crimes. Traditionally, this data is used as evidence in court on a case-by-case basis. However, forensic intelligence offers broader applications by addressing "linkage blindness," where investigative information is not adequately shared or coordinated.

In this presentation, we would like to discuss the definition of forensic intelligence, that remains an ambiguous notion opening the door to divergent degrees of understanding and making its introduction difficult to concretize. Our literature review reveals that there is a need to go beyond definitions and highlights the functions and key elements of forensic intelligence. Additionally, we will address the different sources of forensic data in Belgium, the organizations within which they are structured, the data they include, and how they are used today.

In Belgium, structural obstacles make it difficult to access and use existing forensic data in a collective and relevant manner. This data is often collected in silos, with limited collaboration between agencies, which hinders the full potential of forensic intelligence.

By mapping these forensic data sources, identifying conditions for implementing forensic intelligence, and develop guidelines for practitioners we would like to enable the practical application of forensic intelligence, enhancing crime analysis and law enforcement effectiveness. By establishing the fundamental conditions required and identifying all available forensic data and organizations, we can effectively implement a forensic intelligence approach and projects in Belgium.

Authors

• Maxime Mauquoy, Institut National de Criminalistique et de Criminologie

• Caroline Stappers, Researcher at the National Institute for Criminalistics and Criminology

• Bertrand Renard, National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology (NICC-INCC)