Narcotics Investigative Techniques.

A good primer to drug investigations should be plainly written and describe practical techniques that investigators can realistically apply in their jurisdictions. Narcotics Investigative Techniques is written specifically for municipal police drug investigators and effectively maintains this perspective throughout the book. Arranged to mirror the logical progress of drug investigations, the text guides readers through the process with many helpful suggestions and case studies to illustrate particular points.

The book begins with a discussion of how to initiate drug cases and correctly points out that most cases begin before anyone reports a crime through official police channels. The author offers helpful suggestions regarding the potential sources of information--neighborhood complaints, drug hotlines, referrals through official channels, etc.--and provides clues on how to prioritize the information received. The text goes on to compare information management in small police agencies, as opposed to large metropolitan police departments. The author brings this discussion together by describing in detail the development of a typical case, including expenses, workforce, interaction with other agencies, and the role of the community.

Because informants play an important role in many drug cases--whether investigators target street dealers or high-level distributors--the author devotes much discussion to this issue. The book provides drug investigators with clear and concise suggestions regarding the handling of informants--from general policy guidelines to informant motivation, day-to-day contact, and payments. The author then discusses not only the great potential rewards of using informants but also the possible complications, frustrations, and disasters that can result from the mishandling of informants. The presentation emphasizes the importance of maintaining a professional relationship with informants. The author also notes that limited informant budgets underscore the importance of careful selection and development of potential informants. While much of the book focuses on the technical aspects of drug investigations, the final chapter explores the nontechnical facets of drug investigations, such as attitude and responsibility. The author correctly argues that these factors are just as critical as technical skill in developing successful drug investigations.

Narcotics Investigative Techniques offers an excellent introduction to the complex issues surrounding drug investigations. For police managers and investigators already experienced in drug investigations, the book provides a helpful general overview that will enhance their knowledge base and provide helpful suggestions.

Reviewed by SA W.K. Williams Organized Crime/Drug Intelligence Section Criminal Investigative Division Federal Bureau of Investigation Washington, DC