Reference no: EM132521731

To begin the intelligence cycle is a method for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence. The intelligence cycle is a vehicle in which the knowledge base of law enforcement and military organizations moves forward. The purpose of this vehicle is the ability to gather intelligence efficiently and to disseminate said intelligence to appropriate personnel quickly. However, this vehicle is imperfect and has its flaws. The intelligence cycle is designed to move in a linear line adhering to its six steps: planning and direction, collection, processing/collation, analysis, dissemination, and reevaluation (Peterson, 2005). These steps in and of themselves are necessary and are arguably the most indispensable to the intelligence cycle; however, the sequence itself has its flaws. In today's society, there are far too many tools available that collect and analyze large quantities of data. Given such a large throughput of data and intelligence, there must be breaks in the cycle where it begins again from the beginning to allow for quick reflection and readjustment of resources. This break for reflection and adaptation will allow for more efficient policing. The idea of intelligence-led policing is one where law enforcement personnel prioritize the most critical criminal elements in an area (Peterson, 2005). This prioritization is for several reasons the primary reasons being the prevention of crime, the gathering of further intelligence, and the identification of criminals. To be the most effective at dealing with real-time situations as they occur; the cycle must restart from the beginning at times. This reset is for the planning and redirecting personnel to the most critical areas as needed by current intelligence. While advances continue to move forward, the process that we utilize stagnates and requires an overhaul.