http://www.egovmonitor.com/node/5444
"Futurebuilders England, the government backed investment scheme for the voluntary and community sector, is warning commissioners that they may miss out on excellent public services if they fail to discuss contracts with voluntary and community organisations (VCOs). "
Friday, March 31, 2006
'Tag all the foreigners' - possible ID card sales pitch emerges/ The Register, 31 Mar 2006
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/03/31/ippr_irregular_migration/
John Lettice
"Overseas visa applicants have their biometrics read as part of the application and can therefore be positively identified on entry to the country. Because their biometrics are on record, the chances of intercepting and deporting overstayers increases, at least in theory. Biometrics are also taken from new asylum applicants, so again they're on record and can theoretically be nicked and returned. Non-UK EU citizens will in the future have to have an ID card if they're resident in the UK for longer than three months; this one won't be in place for a while yet as compulsion can only be applied to them when it is also applied to UK citizens (EU law talking here), but it's an important aspect of the 'ring of steel' in that it provides a means of differentiation"
John Lettice
"Overseas visa applicants have their biometrics read as part of the application and can therefore be positively identified on entry to the country. Because their biometrics are on record, the chances of intercepting and deporting overstayers increases, at least in theory. Biometrics are also taken from new asylum applicants, so again they're on record and can theoretically be nicked and returned. Non-UK EU citizens will in the future have to have an ID card if they're resident in the UK for longer than three months; this one won't be in place for a while yet as compulsion can only be applied to them when it is also applied to UK citizens (EU law talking here), but it's an important aspect of the 'ring of steel' in that it provides a means of differentiation"
New ID cards agency set up after Queen approves bill / silicon.com, 31 Mar 2006
http://www.silicon.com/publicsector/0,3800010403,39157735,00.htm
Andy McCue
"The government has wasted no time in starting work on the controversial ID card scheme after the bill became law and has set up a new agency that will be tasked with introducing ID cards. The ID cards bill is now on the statute book after receiving Royal Assent from the. The new Identity and Passport Service (IPS), which will be in charge of managing the ID cards scheme, will become operational from 1 April 2006."
Andy McCue
"The government has wasted no time in starting work on the controversial ID card scheme after the bill became law and has set up a new agency that will be tasked with introducing ID cards. The ID cards bill is now on the statute book after receiving Royal Assent from the. The new Identity and Passport Service (IPS), which will be in charge of managing the ID cards scheme, will become operational from 1 April 2006."
Forces target MPs to halt police mergers icNorthWales, 31 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gyxe
Tom Bodden
"NORTH Wales is at the forefront of a major challenge to the controversial plan to create police super-forces.
Some 20 of the 43 police authorities in Wales and England have united in opposition to home secretary Charles Clarke's proposals.
Now the Campaign for Our Police Services (COPS) wants to step up pressure on MPs to vote out the measure in the Commons. "
Tom Bodden
"NORTH Wales is at the forefront of a major challenge to the controversial plan to create police super-forces.
Some 20 of the 43 police authorities in Wales and England have united in opposition to home secretary Charles Clarke's proposals.
Now the Campaign for Our Police Services (COPS) wants to step up pressure on MPs to vote out the measure in the Commons. "
Crime, Terrorism And The Drug Supply / Medical News Today, 30 Mar 2006
Crime, Terrorism And The Drug Supply:
Bryan A. Liang
"The traditional drug supply chain is often considered to be simple and safe: the manufacturer makes the drug, sends it to wholesalers, who distribute it to pharmacies. Yet vulnerabilities provide opportunities for criminals and terrorists to exploit it for their own reprehensible purposes. "
Drug supplies issues will be addressed at the Institute of Health Law Studies' annual health policy conference, “Terrorism, International Crime, and Medicine Security: Issues in a Global Marketplace,” June 9, 2006 in San Diego. For more information, go to www.CaliforniaWestern.edu/ihls
Bryan A. Liang
"The traditional drug supply chain is often considered to be simple and safe: the manufacturer makes the drug, sends it to wholesalers, who distribute it to pharmacies. Yet vulnerabilities provide opportunities for criminals and terrorists to exploit it for their own reprehensible purposes. "
Drug supplies issues will be addressed at the Institute of Health Law Studies' annual health policy conference, “Terrorism, International Crime, and Medicine Security: Issues in a Global Marketplace,” June 9, 2006 in San Diego. For more information, go to www.CaliforniaWestern.edu/ihls
Call for asylum children advisers / BBC, 31 Mar 2006
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/4863508.stm "The children's commissioner has called for the introduction of independent advisers to help children seeking asylum in Scotland without a parent."
ValueOptions' Court Advocacy and Jail Diversion Programs Improve Outcomes and Reduce Crime Rate among Severely Mentally Ill / 30 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gywc
"ValueOptions' Jail Diversion Program intervenes on behalf of persons with SMI (Serious Mental Illness) to prevent inappropriate jail sentencing through the accurate identification, treatment and application of associated mental health services. The program identifies persons with SMI and works with them at four critical points in the criminal justice system."
"ValueOptions' Jail Diversion Program intervenes on behalf of persons with SMI (Serious Mental Illness) to prevent inappropriate jail sentencing through the accurate identification, treatment and application of associated mental health services. The program identifies persons with SMI and works with them at four critical points in the criminal justice system."
'No Snitching' Movement Has Roots in Drug War / Jopin together, 30 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gywb
"A grassroots campaign to discourage crime witnesses from talking to police is partially a response to the war on drugs.
T-shirts and hats with the message 'Stop Snitching' have proliferated on the streets of cities like Pittsburgh, Boston, Baltimore, and New York. The trend has frustrated police and prosecutors, who say the intent is to intimidate witnesses.
The no-snitching message also has been delivered via rap songs and by the actions of celebrities; 50 witnesses to the murder of a bodyguard for rapper Busta Rhymes have refused to cooperate with police, including Rhymes himself. The murders of rappers Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G., and Run DMC's Jam Master Jay have all gone unsolved for similar reasons."
"A grassroots campaign to discourage crime witnesses from talking to police is partially a response to the war on drugs.
T-shirts and hats with the message 'Stop Snitching' have proliferated on the streets of cities like Pittsburgh, Boston, Baltimore, and New York. The trend has frustrated police and prosecutors, who say the intent is to intimidate witnesses.
The no-snitching message also has been delivered via rap songs and by the actions of celebrities; 50 witnesses to the murder of a bodyguard for rapper Busta Rhymes have refused to cooperate with police, including Rhymes himself. The murders of rappers Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G., and Run DMC's Jam Master Jay have all gone unsolved for similar reasons."
London's police get new powers to drug test suspects / 24dash.com31 Mar 2006
http://www.24dash.com/content/news/viewNews.php?navID=7&newsID=4369
"New powers to allow police to drug test people arrested for crimes such as burglary come into force in London. The new measures are part of the Drugs Act 2005, and will be used in those police areas with the highest rates of drug-related crime. For the first time, drug-misusing offenders will be tested on arrest for heroin and/or crack/cocaine for crimes such as street robbery and burglary. Those who test positive will be required to attend a compulsory drug assessment, even if they are not charged."
"New powers to allow police to drug test people arrested for crimes such as burglary come into force in London. The new measures are part of the Drugs Act 2005, and will be used in those police areas with the highest rates of drug-related crime. For the first time, drug-misusing offenders will be tested on arrest for heroin and/or crack/cocaine for crimes such as street robbery and burglary. Those who test positive will be required to attend a compulsory drug assessment, even if they are not charged."
Jury still out on viability of drugs courts / The Herald, 31 Mar 2006
http://www.theherald.co.uk/news/59156.html
Billy Briggs
"A flagship policy to stop drug addicts from reoffending was called into question yesterday by a report which said a pilot scheme had not been as successful as previously hoped. More than two-thirds of law-breaking addicts in Fife and 53% in Glasgow failed to adhere to drug treatment orders from specialised courts brought in to cut reconviction rates"
Billy Briggs
"A flagship policy to stop drug addicts from reoffending was called into question yesterday by a report which said a pilot scheme had not been as successful as previously hoped. More than two-thirds of law-breaking addicts in Fife and 53% in Glasgow failed to adhere to drug treatment orders from specialised courts brought in to cut reconviction rates"
Challenging detention of children / IRR, 28 Mar 2006
http://www.irr.org.uk/2006/march/ha000030.html
Liz Fekete
"Over the years, European governments have been locking up more and more asylum- seeking children and, in this way, rendering them invisible. But over the last year, something has changed. Issues relating to detained children (whether unaccompanied or members of families) are being discussed in the media. Asylum seeking children are becoming visible."
Liz Fekete
"Over the years, European governments have been locking up more and more asylum- seeking children and, in this way, rendering them invisible. But over the last year, something has changed. Issues relating to detained children (whether unaccompanied or members of families) are being discussed in the media. Asylum seeking children are becoming visible."
Taking A Coordinated Approach To Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour In Leicestershire / ClickPress, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.clickpress.com/releases/Detailed/10951005cp.shtml
"Charnwood Borough Council has joined forces with Leicestershire Police to launch a pioneering three year pilot designed to give a more integrated and strategic approach to tackling anti-social behaviour, using a central web-based database enabling Council officers to share information for a co-ordinated, multi-agency approach. "
"Charnwood Borough Council has joined forces with Leicestershire Police to launch a pioneering three year pilot designed to give a more integrated and strategic approach to tackling anti-social behaviour, using a central web-based database enabling Council officers to share information for a co-ordinated, multi-agency approach. "
Shoeprint analysis to fight crime / BBC, 31 Mar 2006
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/4857756.stm "Researchers in the UK are working on a computer system that aims to make shoeprints at crime scenes as useful as fingerprints and DNA. "
Amnesty on illegal immigrants is 'worth £6bn to UK' / Independent, 31 Mar 2006
http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/this_britain/article354784.ece "Nigel Morris
A vast hidden army of illegal immigrants ensures that each day thousands of offices and homes are cleaned, streets are swept and drinks are served in Britain's pubs and clubs."
* There are between 310,000 and 570,000 illegal immigrants in the UK, according to Home Office estimates
* If allowed to live legally, they would pay more than £1bn in tax each year
* Migrants fill 90% of low-paid jobs in London and account for 29% of the capital's workforce. London is the UK's fastest-growing region
* Legal migrants comprise 8.7% of the population, but contribute 10.2% of all taxes. Each immigrant pays an average of £7,203 in tax, compared with £6,861 for non-migrant workers
* There were 25,715 people claiming asylum last year. If allowed to work, they would generate £123m for the Treasury
A vast hidden army of illegal immigrants ensures that each day thousands of offices and homes are cleaned, streets are swept and drinks are served in Britain's pubs and clubs."
* There are between 310,000 and 570,000 illegal immigrants in the UK, according to Home Office estimates
* If allowed to live legally, they would pay more than £1bn in tax each year
* Migrants fill 90% of low-paid jobs in London and account for 29% of the capital's workforce. London is the UK's fastest-growing region
* Legal migrants comprise 8.7% of the population, but contribute 10.2% of all taxes. Each immigrant pays an average of £7,203 in tax, compared with £6,861 for non-migrant workers
* There were 25,715 people claiming asylum last year. If allowed to work, they would generate £123m for the Treasury
Clarke attacked on ID card costs / BBC, 30 Mar 2006
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/4862556.stm
"People applying for passports from 2008 will have to pay for an identity card whether they want one or not, Home Secretary Charles Clarke has said."
"People applying for passports from 2008 will have to pay for an identity card whether they want one or not, Home Secretary Charles Clarke has said."
Consultant urges Taser plan / Wichita Eagle, 31 Mar 2006
http://www.kansas.com/mld/eagle/living/education/14229271.htm
ICESS FERNANDEZ
"Trump said that before allowing Tasers in schools, school officials should review potential liability problems; their policies or agreements with police; research on how Tasers affect juveniles; what to do if a Taser is used on a student with a medical condition or special needs; and how to handle community relations."
ICESS FERNANDEZ
"Trump said that before allowing Tasers in schools, school officials should review potential liability problems; their policies or agreements with police; research on how Tasers affect juveniles; what to do if a Taser is used on a student with a medical condition or special needs; and how to handle community relations."
Prison Education Report - UPDATE: 1 Year On / Forum on Prisoner Education, 31 Mar 2006
PDF - http://www.fpe.org.uk/filestore/bp22.pdf
"A year after publication of the Select Committee's report, the Forum on Prisoner Education has published a Briefing Paper charting the Ggovernment's progress against the report's 55 recommendations."
"A year after publication of the Select Committee's report, the Forum on Prisoner Education has published a Briefing Paper charting the Ggovernment's progress against the report's 55 recommendations."
UK biometric ID card faces questions / PhysOrg, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.physorg.com/news62943442.html
"The United Kingdom isn't the first in Europe to introduce ID cards -- France, Germany and Italy all have their own versions, although they vary in how voluntary they are. The proposed U.K. system is however likely to be the most comprehensive, and some say invasive, in the bloc. And therein lies the worry -- each ID card is proposed to hold up to 49 pieces of personal identifying data including national insurance number, passport number, all driving license details and, controversially, biometric data on a microchip. Biometric data is a way of verifying someone's identity based on a body part or their behavior. The best-known biometrics are signatures that are commonly used on driving licenses and passports, and fingerprints"
"The United Kingdom isn't the first in Europe to introduce ID cards -- France, Germany and Italy all have their own versions, although they vary in how voluntary they are. The proposed U.K. system is however likely to be the most comprehensive, and some say invasive, in the bloc. And therein lies the worry -- each ID card is proposed to hold up to 49 pieces of personal identifying data including national insurance number, passport number, all driving license details and, controversially, biometric data on a microchip. Biometric data is a way of verifying someone's identity based on a body part or their behavior. The best-known biometrics are signatures that are commonly used on driving licenses and passports, and fingerprints"
[USA] Criminal Justice : Prison population continues to overwhelm state's correctional facilities / State Journal, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.statejournal.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=9779
Juliet A Terry
"Prison, jail -- to most people, those terms are interchangeable.
To an inmate sentenced to serve time in prison but spending those years in jail, the difference is painfully apparent. For those who do not understand the problem, who do not grasp the fundamental differences between jail and prison, a quick explanation is needed.
'Jails are extremely austere. Twenty-three out of 24 hours on a typical day are spent in a space not much larger than a person's living room with anywhere from 18 to, with the overcrowding, 60 people who are not necessarily folks you would choose as your neighbor,' said Steve Canterbury, administrator of state courts and former executive director of the Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority.
'Prisons, on the other hand, have a great deal of freedom of movement within the walls.' "
Juliet A Terry
"Prison, jail -- to most people, those terms are interchangeable.
To an inmate sentenced to serve time in prison but spending those years in jail, the difference is painfully apparent. For those who do not understand the problem, who do not grasp the fundamental differences between jail and prison, a quick explanation is needed.
'Jails are extremely austere. Twenty-three out of 24 hours on a typical day are spent in a space not much larger than a person's living room with anywhere from 18 to, with the overcrowding, 60 people who are not necessarily folks you would choose as your neighbor,' said Steve Canterbury, administrator of state courts and former executive director of the Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority.
'Prisons, on the other hand, have a great deal of freedom of movement within the walls.' "
Cops launch handheld intelligence / The Register, 31 Mar 2006
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/03/31/police_handheld_database/
"The handhelds would give officers access to 'everything we know about a person'. 'We hold intelligence on people we know to be criminals and suspect of being criminals,' he said.
But, he insisted the project gave officers nothing more than they could either already request over the radio or find at the police station. It was merely being shovelled into one device."
"The handhelds would give officers access to 'everything we know about a person'. 'We hold intelligence on people we know to be criminals and suspect of being criminals,' he said.
But, he insisted the project gave officers nothing more than they could either already request over the radio or find at the police station. It was merely being shovelled into one device."
Minister pledges no complete DNA database / The Register, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/03/30/burnham_epsrc_event/"The Chris Williams
Home Office minister responsible for science has said the National DNA Database will never be extended to cover the whole population. Andy Burnham, visibly relieved by the ID card compromise, made the pledge at a meeting of top academics working in forensics. He said he didn't think there was a debate to be had on a complete DNA repository."
Home Office minister responsible for science has said the National DNA Database will never be extended to cover the whole population. Andy Burnham, visibly relieved by the ID card compromise, made the pledge at a meeting of top academics working in forensics. He said he didn't think there was a debate to be had on a complete DNA repository."
Data sharing planned in government IT shake-up / silicon.com, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.silicon.com/0,39024729,39157654,00.htm
Dan Ilett
"The government is set to shake up the rules around sharing citizens' data among public sector departments.
As part of the Transformational Government Strategy (TGS) implementation plan, the Cabinet Office is currently looking at ways of sharing data across the public system while 'strengthening' privacy rights."
Dan Ilett
"The government is set to shake up the rules around sharing citizens' data among public sector departments.
As part of the Transformational Government Strategy (TGS) implementation plan, the Cabinet Office is currently looking at ways of sharing data across the public system while 'strengthening' privacy rights."
National School of Government is made a non-ministerial department / Public Technology, 31 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gysc
"The National School of Government is to have more autonomy to develop its role as a centre of excellence for learning and development across the public sector. Cabinet Office Minister Jim Murphy announced to Parliament yesterday that it will become a non-ministerial department. Jim Murphy said: 'This is another big step towards improving public service delivery. As a separate department the National School will have an important role to play in ensuring that Civil Servants have the best knowledge and skills to continue the improvement in public service delivery.'"
"The National School of Government is to have more autonomy to develop its role as a centre of excellence for learning and development across the public sector. Cabinet Office Minister Jim Murphy announced to Parliament yesterday that it will become a non-ministerial department. Jim Murphy said: 'This is another big step towards improving public service delivery. As a separate department the National School will have an important role to play in ensuring that Civil Servants have the best knowledge and skills to continue the improvement in public service delivery.'"
Police data sharing enshrined in Immigration, Asylum & Nationality Act / Public Technology, 31 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gysb
"Important new measures to boost Government powers to tackle illegal working and strengthen UK borders became law yesterday - with data sharing as part of the e-Borders programme a central cornerstone. Having received Royal Assent the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality (IAN) Act, will enable Government to implement the promises it made in its five year strategy for immigration and asylum published in 2005 which require primary legislation.
Provisions in the Act will strengthen borders by allowing data sharing between the Immigration Service, police and customs, as part of the e-Borders programme. It will support the global roll-out of fingerprinting visa applicants by giving powers to Immigration Officers to verify identity against biometrics contained in travel documents.."
"Important new measures to boost Government powers to tackle illegal working and strengthen UK borders became law yesterday - with data sharing as part of the e-Borders programme a central cornerstone. Having received Royal Assent the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality (IAN) Act, will enable Government to implement the promises it made in its five year strategy for immigration and asylum published in 2005 which require primary legislation.
Provisions in the Act will strengthen borders by allowing data sharing between the Immigration Service, police and customs, as part of the e-Borders programme. It will support the global roll-out of fingerprinting visa applicants by giving powers to Immigration Officers to verify identity against biometrics contained in travel documents.."
Thursday, March 30, 2006
BURUNDI: Drought drives thousands back to refugee life / Reuters AlertNet, 30 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gynw
"In a small locality of Kibondo District in northwestern Tanzania, a mere two-hour drive from the border with Burundi, is a temporary camp called Nyakimonomono, which hosts at least 7,000 Burundian refugees who have fled a food crisis in their country"
"In a small locality of Kibondo District in northwestern Tanzania, a mere two-hour drive from the border with Burundi, is a temporary camp called Nyakimonomono, which hosts at least 7,000 Burundian refugees who have fled a food crisis in their country"
Stopping youngsters joining ASBO track / Mansfield Today 30 Mar 2006
http://www.mansfieldtoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=722&ArticleID=1406505
"A SUCCESSFUL programme to help troubled youngsters stay on the right side of the law has now been rolled out across Mansfield."
"A SUCCESSFUL programme to help troubled youngsters stay on the right side of the law has now been rolled out across Mansfield."
Cop cool on new stun gun armourEdmonton Sun, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.edmontonsun.com/News/Edmonton/2006/03/30/1512087-sun.html
Ajay Bhardwaj
"An American company is hoping to take the bite out of stun guns with new body armour that insulates wearers against a 50,000-volt charge. Tuscon, Arizona-based G2 Consulting recently patented body armour made of polyester and copper that deflects energy from weapons like stun guns. 'With the proliferation of stun guns, it's a matter of time before it gets used on an officer.' "
Ajay Bhardwaj
"An American company is hoping to take the bite out of stun guns with new body armour that insulates wearers against a 50,000-volt charge. Tuscon, Arizona-based G2 Consulting recently patented body armour made of polyester and copper that deflects energy from weapons like stun guns. 'With the proliferation of stun guns, it's a matter of time before it gets used on an officer.' "
Compulsory identity cards planned / BBC, 30 Mar 2006
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/4860642.stm
"Identity cards will be made compulsory if Labour wins the next election"
"Identity cards will be made compulsory if Labour wins the next election"
[USA] A good immigration bill / International Herald Tribune, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/03/29/opinion/edimmig-5888680.php
"The bill, approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee in a 12-6 vote on Monday, is one America should be proud of. Four Republicans, including the committee's chairman, Arlen Specter, joined eight Democrats in endorsing a balanced approach to immigration reform. The bill does not ignore security and border enforcement. It would nearly double the number of Border Patrol agents, add resources for detaining illegal immigrants and deporting them more quickly, and expand state and local enforcement of immigration laws.
The path to citizenship laid out by the Specter bill wouldn't be easy. It would take 11 years, a clean record, a steady job, payment of a $2,000 fine and back taxes, and knowledge of English and civics."
"The bill, approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee in a 12-6 vote on Monday, is one America should be proud of. Four Republicans, including the committee's chairman, Arlen Specter, joined eight Democrats in endorsing a balanced approach to immigration reform. The bill does not ignore security and border enforcement. It would nearly double the number of Border Patrol agents, add resources for detaining illegal immigrants and deporting them more quickly, and expand state and local enforcement of immigration laws.
The path to citizenship laid out by the Specter bill wouldn't be easy. It would take 11 years, a clean record, a steady job, payment of a $2,000 fine and back taxes, and knowledge of English and civics."
Easter Term lectures / University of CambridgeInstitute of Criminology
http://www.crim.cam.ac.uk/EasterTermlectures.html#0
"Thursday 4 May 2006Professor Richard Harding
Inaugural Inspector of Custodial Services for Western Australia, and Founder and Director (1988-2000) of the the Crime Research Centre at the University of Western Australia.
Inspecting Prisons and the Question of Effectiveness
Thursday 11 May 2006Professor Gerben Bruinsma
Director of the Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR), and Professor of Criminology at the Faculty of Law of Leiden University in the Netherlands. Research on Organized Crime
Thursday 18 May 2006Dr Shadd Maruna and Dr Anna King
Dr Shadd Maruna is Reader in Criminology at Queen's University Belfast, and Dr Anna King is a Lecturer in Criminology at Keele University.
The State of Redemption: Does the British Public Believe Young Offenders Can Change and Does it Matter?"
"Thursday 4 May 2006Professor Richard Harding
Inaugural Inspector of Custodial Services for Western Australia, and Founder and Director (1988-2000) of the the Crime Research Centre at the University of Western Australia.
Inspecting Prisons and the Question of Effectiveness
Thursday 11 May 2006Professor Gerben Bruinsma
Director of the Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR), and Professor of Criminology at the Faculty of Law of Leiden University in the Netherlands. Research on Organized Crime
Thursday 18 May 2006Dr Shadd Maruna and Dr Anna King
Dr Shadd Maruna is Reader in Criminology at Queen's University Belfast, and Dr Anna King is a Lecturer in Criminology at Keele University.
The State of Redemption: Does the British Public Believe Young Offenders Can Change and Does it Matter?"
Identity Cards Bill received Royal Assent / eGov monitor, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.egovmonitor.com/node/5421
"The Identity Cards Bill received Royal Assent, placing on the statute book important measures which will help Britain meet the challenges of the 21st century. The National Identity Scheme will provide all UK residents aged over 16 with a universal, highly secure means for safeguarding their identity.
The new agency that will issue passports and ID cards will be called the Identity and Passport Service (IPS). Incorporating the United Kingdom Passport Service (UKPS) and working closely with the Home Office's Immigration and Nationality Directorate, it will become operational on 1 April 2006."
"The Identity Cards Bill received Royal Assent, placing on the statute book important measures which will help Britain meet the challenges of the 21st century. The National Identity Scheme will provide all UK residents aged over 16 with a universal, highly secure means for safeguarding their identity.
The new agency that will issue passports and ID cards will be called the Identity and Passport Service (IPS). Incorporating the United Kingdom Passport Service (UKPS) and working closely with the Home Office's Immigration and Nationality Directorate, it will become operational on 1 April 2006."
Secret Camps Offer Operational Courses in Jihad Tactics / Terrorism Focus, Volume 3, Issue 12 (March 28, 2006)
http://www.jamestown.org/terrorism/news/article.php?articleid=2369943
Stephen Ulph
"An interesting recent posting on the Abu al-Bokhary jihadi forum (http://www.abualbokhary.net/) provides some useful insight about the current conditions and the priorities in the training of mujahideen. The anonymous author of a 'Basic Course for Beginners in Secret Mujahideen Camps,' describes a 'five day course for first beginners in jihadist activity.'"
Stephen Ulph
"An interesting recent posting on the Abu al-Bokhary jihadi forum (http://www.abualbokhary.net/) provides some useful insight about the current conditions and the priorities in the training of mujahideen. The anonymous author of a 'Basic Course for Beginners in Secret Mujahideen Camps,' describes a 'five day course for first beginners in jihadist activity.'"
Al-Qaeda Doctrine: Training the Individual Warrior / Terrorism Focus, Volume 3, Issue 12 (March 28, 2006)
http://www.jamestown.org/terrorism/news/article.php?articleid=2369944
Michael Scheuer
"While Terrorism Focus previously examined al-Qaeda's strategic and tactical doctrine (February 28, March 14), this article looks at the type and purpose of the non-military training that is given to the individual al-Qaeda fighter or mujahid. Based on al-Qaeda sources (see notes for complete listing), this training appears to be common to both the organization's insurgents and their special forces, and is intended to produce fighters who are pious, disciplined and unity-minded, fatalistic, and cognizant of the requirements and attitudes of those they are defending."
Michael Scheuer
"While Terrorism Focus previously examined al-Qaeda's strategic and tactical doctrine (February 28, March 14), this article looks at the type and purpose of the non-military training that is given to the individual al-Qaeda fighter or mujahid. Based on al-Qaeda sources (see notes for complete listing), this training appears to be common to both the organization's insurgents and their special forces, and is intended to produce fighters who are pious, disciplined and unity-minded, fatalistic, and cognizant of the requirements and attitudes of those they are defending."
Using Urine Specimens from Parolees/Probationers to Create A Statewide Drug Monitoring System / DEWS, Feb 2006
PDF - http://www.cesar.umd.edu/cesar/pubs/20060201.pdf
Eric D. Wish, Ph.D.; Cheryl Rinehart, B.A., Margaret Hsu, M.H.S.; and Erin Artigiani, M.A.
"Trends in the drugs detected in urinalyses from offenders have been found to provide advance warning of drug epidemics in the greater community. Is it feasible to establish a statewide drug monitoring system using available urine specimens from probationers/parolees? Does the DPP standard five drug screen detect most drug users?"
Eric D. Wish, Ph.D.; Cheryl Rinehart, B.A., Margaret Hsu, M.H.S.; and Erin Artigiani, M.A.
"Trends in the drugs detected in urinalyses from offenders have been found to provide advance warning of drug epidemics in the greater community. Is it feasible to establish a statewide drug monitoring system using available urine specimens from probationers/parolees? Does the DPP standard five drug screen detect most drug users?"
ELECTRONIC MONITORING OF SEX OFFENDERS 2006 Report to the Legislature
/ Minnesota Department of Corrections
PDF - http://www.nlectc.org/pdffiles/elecmonofso2006report.pdf
PDF - http://www.nlectc.org/pdffiles/elecmonofso2006report.pdf
Electronic Tether / GovTech, 20 Feb 2006
http://www.govtech.net/digitalcommunities/story.php?id=98310
Jim McKay
"California's two-year, state-sponsored GPS program began in July 2005, and is among several initiatives around the country using satellite monitoring technology to track convicted sex offenders."
Jim McKay
"California's two-year, state-sponsored GPS program began in July 2005, and is among several initiatives around the country using satellite monitoring technology to track convicted sex offenders."
[Jamaica] New PM faces tough challenges / JAMAICA OBSERVER, 28 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gymg
Ken Chaplin
"The biggest challenges facing the new prime minister are improving the education system, especially at the primary level; reducing crime to a tolerable level; breaking the cycle of corruption in government; capping public debt and cutting expenditure which might mean cutting down the number of ministries as well as the number of public servants; providing adequate water supplies and better secondary and rural roads."
Ken Chaplin
"The biggest challenges facing the new prime minister are improving the education system, especially at the primary level; reducing crime to a tolerable level; breaking the cycle of corruption in government; capping public debt and cutting expenditure which might mean cutting down the number of ministries as well as the number of public servants; providing adequate water supplies and better secondary and rural roads."
Prison team is worth its weight in gold / Birmingham Post, 29 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gymf
Emma Pinch
"Birmingham Prison was once called the worst in the country.
But this year it has been given 'pathfinder' status for the package of treatment it offers drug-addicted prisoners. "
Emma Pinch
"Birmingham Prison was once called the worst in the country.
But this year it has been given 'pathfinder' status for the package of treatment it offers drug-addicted prisoners. "
Japan Issues E-Passports / RFID Journal28 Mar 2006
http://www.rfidjournal.com/article/articleview/2224/1/1/
Jonathan Collins
"Last week, Japan started issuing its first electronic passports (e-passports). Every five-year, 10-year and diplomatic passport the government issues will now include an RFID tag. The country expects to dispense more than 3.5 million e-passports within the next 12 months, with all Japanese passports will expected to carry an RFID chip within the next 10 years. Currently, Japan has 35 million passports in circulation. "
Jonathan Collins
"Last week, Japan started issuing its first electronic passports (e-passports). Every five-year, 10-year and diplomatic passport the government issues will now include an RFID tag. The country expects to dispense more than 3.5 million e-passports within the next 12 months, with all Japanese passports will expected to carry an RFID chip within the next 10 years. Currently, Japan has 35 million passports in circulation. "
Curbs to keep hate preachers out / New.com.au, 30 Mar 2006
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,10117,18650106-421,00.html
Richard Kerbaj
"MUSLIM clerics entering the country on workers' visas will face stricter conditions under a new proposal that will make it easier for the Howard Government to kick out extremists.
The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs is examining ways of imposing a condition on religious worker visas to stop the hundreds of spiritual figures coming to Australia each year from inciting 'discord'.
Documents obtained by The Australian reveal concern in the Immigration Department and within the Muslim community that the visas religious workers use to come to Australia are not tough enough.
While the clerics must be sponsored by religious organisations to qualify for the special visas - which allow them to stay for two years - they do not specifically outlaw them from stirring trouble."
Richard Kerbaj
"MUSLIM clerics entering the country on workers' visas will face stricter conditions under a new proposal that will make it easier for the Howard Government to kick out extremists.
The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs is examining ways of imposing a condition on religious worker visas to stop the hundreds of spiritual figures coming to Australia each year from inciting 'discord'.
Documents obtained by The Australian reveal concern in the Immigration Department and within the Muslim community that the visas religious workers use to come to Australia are not tough enough.
While the clerics must be sponsored by religious organisations to qualify for the special visas - which allow them to stay for two years - they do not specifically outlaw them from stirring trouble."
INTERVIEW-Al Qaeda bioterror threat remains real -Interpol / Reuters AlertNet, 29 Mar 2006
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/SIN82931.htm
Jan Dahinten
"Al Qaeda has the ability to carry out attacks using biochemicals and the threat of a strike remains real, a top Interpol official warned on Wednesday.
John Abbott, chairman of Interpol's bioterrorism sub-committee, said national police forces and health services lacked preparation for an attack using dangerous toxins and had insufficient knowledge and powers to handle such an event."
Jan Dahinten
"Al Qaeda has the ability to carry out attacks using biochemicals and the threat of a strike remains real, a top Interpol official warned on Wednesday.
John Abbott, chairman of Interpol's bioterrorism sub-committee, said national police forces and health services lacked preparation for an attack using dangerous toxins and had insufficient knowledge and powers to handle such an event."
Best practice guidance for commissioners and providers of pharmaceutical services to drug users
/ The National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse (NTA), the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) and the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC) , March 2006
PDF - http://digbig.com/4gykx
"Pharmacists play a very important role in the provision of treatment and care to drug misusers, by dispensing drugs as part of supervised consumption arrangements and by offering needle exchange services.
Although there are more than 14 million face-to-face contacts between pharmacists and drug misusers each year, the Audit Commission�s report Changing habits, identified pharmacists as an underused point of contact for the drug misusing population.
The NTA has produced new guidance to assist commissioners and pharmacists in improving and increasing the level of provision.�"
PDF - http://digbig.com/4gykx
"Pharmacists play a very important role in the provision of treatment and care to drug misusers, by dispensing drugs as part of supervised consumption arrangements and by offering needle exchange services.
Although there are more than 14 million face-to-face contacts between pharmacists and drug misusers each year, the Audit Commission�s report Changing habits, identified pharmacists as an underused point of contact for the drug misusing population.
The NTA has produced new guidance to assist commissioners and pharmacists in improving and increasing the level of provision.�"
Drug-free hemp is focus of U study / Minnesota Daily, 27 Mar 2006
http://www.mndaily.com/articles/2006/03/27/67706
Lily Langerud
"The research is useful in forensic science, and DNA fingerprints from the plants could be used to link marijuana growers to distributors"
Lily Langerud
"The research is useful in forensic science, and DNA fingerprints from the plants could be used to link marijuana growers to distributors"
Transformational Government - Implementation plan / CIO, 29 Mar 2006
PDF - http://www.cio.gov.uk/documents/pdf/transgov/transgovt.pdf"The Government has now published an Implementation Plan for the strategy, covering the tasks to be completed by July 2007. The plan describes the actions being taken for each of the workstreams identified in Transformational Government and sets out how implementation of the strategy is aligned with the Comprehensive Spending Review"
Leap in number of Asbos handed out / icWales -, 30 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gyke
"The number of anti-social behaviour orders in England and Wales has leapt to 7,356, Home Office figures show. There were an extra 816 handed out to yobs in the third quarter of last year. The overall figure was down 132 on the previous quarter, or 14%, but showed a rise of 54 period on period.
Of the total, 55% were handed to adults and 43% to juveniles." [Snippet]
"The number of anti-social behaviour orders in England and Wales has leapt to 7,356, Home Office figures show. There were an extra 816 handed out to yobs in the third quarter of last year. The overall figure was down 132 on the previous quarter, or 14%, but showed a rise of 54 period on period.
Of the total, 55% were handed to adults and 43% to juveniles." [Snippet]
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
[Netherlands] The New Naturalization Regulations in the Netherlands / The Journal of the Turkish Weekly, 29 Mar 2006
http://www.turkishweekly.net/news.php?id=28909
"A new immigration law is passed on the 15th March 2006 in the Netherlands. Foreign people, who want to stay in the Netherlands for more than three months, have to pass a 'civic integration exam' to apply for a temporary residence permit. This applies for foreign people, who want to form a family with someone in this country or to reunite with family members already living in the Netherlands. Religious leaders, coming to the Netherlands for employment, such as imams and preachers, also have to do the exam. "
"A new immigration law is passed on the 15th March 2006 in the Netherlands. Foreign people, who want to stay in the Netherlands for more than three months, have to pass a 'civic integration exam' to apply for a temporary residence permit. This applies for foreign people, who want to form a family with someone in this country or to reunite with family members already living in the Netherlands. Religious leaders, coming to the Netherlands for employment, such as imams and preachers, also have to do the exam. "
US Police Kill 156 with Tasers / Prensa Latina, 28 Mar 2006
US Police Kill 156 with Tasers - Prensa Latina:
"Police in the US have killed 156 people in five years, either purposely or by accident, with tasers, the stun belts used to subdue people by electric shock. As the weapon grows in popularity among law enforcement ranks so do the number of victims. In 2001 it was used by 1,000 of 18,000 police stations, but the number rose to 7,000 in 2005. Similarly, as a human rights organization denounced, with the soaring use of tasers -discharging thousands of volts- there is a concomitant increase in fatalities: only three in 2001, but 61 in 2005. Although producers claim the technology has saved many more lives, organizations like the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) view it as an instrument of torture due to the physical pain and psychological torture inflicted by careless people." [Snippet]
"Police in the US have killed 156 people in five years, either purposely or by accident, with tasers, the stun belts used to subdue people by electric shock. As the weapon grows in popularity among law enforcement ranks so do the number of victims. In 2001 it was used by 1,000 of 18,000 police stations, but the number rose to 7,000 in 2005. Similarly, as a human rights organization denounced, with the soaring use of tasers -discharging thousands of volts- there is a concomitant increase in fatalities: only three in 2001, but 61 in 2005. Although producers claim the technology has saved many more lives, organizations like the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) view it as an instrument of torture due to the physical pain and psychological torture inflicted by careless people." [Snippet]
Poll on TASER Devices Indicates Support / News Release, 28 Mar 2006
http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/news.html?d=96324
"TASER International, Inc. (Nasdaq:TASR), a market leader in advanced electronic control devices, released the following News Alert:
According to news reports from the San Jose Mercury News, a recent reader poll on thoughts about TASER(r) system use by law enforcement indicated that more than 74 percent of those who participated believed TASER devices are an effective tool. According to the paper, this poll was one of the most active in terms of reader response.
For more information or to view the poll and individual responses, please visit www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/14191441.htm.
" [Snippet]
"TASER International, Inc. (Nasdaq:TASR), a market leader in advanced electronic control devices, released the following News Alert:
According to news reports from the San Jose Mercury News, a recent reader poll on thoughts about TASER(r) system use by law enforcement indicated that more than 74 percent of those who participated believed TASER devices are an effective tool. According to the paper, this poll was one of the most active in terms of reader response.
For more information or to view the poll and individual responses, please visit www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/14191441.htm.
" [Snippet]
News-Sentinel | 03/28/2006 | Taser trouble comes with the territory
http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/newssentinel/news/local/14205154.htm
Kevin Leininger
"Although Tasers can prevent some problems by using electricity to immobilize troublemakers, Beckstein's case - and others - prove the 'less-than-lethal' devices pose their own unique challenges. To his credit, Fort Wayne Police Chief Rusty York understands the danger. "When I see how Tasers are often deployed, that's why we're doing what we're doing. It's always a concern (that Tasers will be too readily used). That's why you need a good policy.""
Kevin Leininger
"Although Tasers can prevent some problems by using electricity to immobilize troublemakers, Beckstein's case - and others - prove the 'less-than-lethal' devices pose their own unique challenges. To his credit, Fort Wayne Police Chief Rusty York understands the danger. "When I see how Tasers are often deployed, that's why we're doing what we're doing. It's always a concern (that Tasers will be too readily used). That's why you need a good policy.""
[USA] Senate passes Taser bill / Gwinnett Daily Post, 28 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gycm
"Police agencies that wish to make Taser stun guns part of their arsenal would have to meet training requirements set by the state under a bill approved by the Senate. The legislation, which passed 52-1, would require police departments to develop policies for using Tasers that comply with standards established by the Georgia Peace Officer Training Council. Officers designated to use Tasers would have to complete a training course developed by the council and meet its certification requirements."
"Police agencies that wish to make Taser stun guns part of their arsenal would have to meet training requirements set by the state under a bill approved by the Senate. The legislation, which passed 52-1, would require police departments to develop policies for using Tasers that comply with standards established by the Georgia Peace Officer Training Council. Officers designated to use Tasers would have to complete a training course developed by the council and meet its certification requirements."
Amnesty International: US Taser deaths up / Seattle PI, 27 Mar 2006
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/1110AP_Taser_Deaths.html:
MARK SHERMAN
"Taser did not immediately comment on the report. But it has called similar studies flawed because they link deaths to Taser use when there has been no such official conclusion. To the contrary, Taser has said that more than 9,000 lives have been saved because police officers have been able to use stun guns instead of bullets. Tasers deliver a 50,000-volt jolt through two barbed darts that can penetrate clothing."
MARK SHERMAN
"Taser did not immediately comment on the report. But it has called similar studies flawed because they link deaths to Taser use when there has been no such official conclusion. To the contrary, Taser has said that more than 9,000 lives have been saved because police officers have been able to use stun guns instead of bullets. Tasers deliver a 50,000-volt jolt through two barbed darts that can penetrate clothing."
[Northern Ireland]| New police weapon causes concern / BBC, 28 Mar 2006
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/4851384.stm
"Concern about the proposed use of the Taser 'stun gun' by the police in Northern Ireland has been expressed by a human rights watchdog. "
"Concern about the proposed use of the Taser 'stun gun' by the police in Northern Ireland has been expressed by a human rights watchdog. "
True or false: Do you want to be a German? / International Herald Tribune, 29 Mar 2006
http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/03/28/news/journal.php
"But at a deeper level, the debate about the test, echoing the ongoing immigration debate in other European countries, illustrates the difficulty that Europe has with the immigration question. With a prevalence of Muslims among the immigrants - and fears that Islamic extremism is infiltrating Europe - the usual immigration debate has acquired a special edge."
"But at a deeper level, the debate about the test, echoing the ongoing immigration debate in other European countries, illustrates the difficulty that Europe has with the immigration question. With a prevalence of Muslims among the immigrants - and fears that Islamic extremism is infiltrating Europe - the usual immigration debate has acquired a special edge."
Muslims and European integration / Pakistan Daily Times, 28 Mar 2006
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2006%5C03%5C28%5Cstory_28-3-2006_pg3_4
Farish A Noor
"So if Europe's political leaders wish to ensure that European Muslims integrate well and fully with the rest of European society, they ought to ensure that European Muslims are given the same equal opportunities as other European citizens and minority groups. If some European Muslims have turned their backs on their societies and sought refuge in the false asylum of the mosque, conservative imams and mullahs or communitarian politics, perhaps it is time to ask serious questions about the failure of nation building in Europe in the first place. "
Farish A Noor
"So if Europe's political leaders wish to ensure that European Muslims integrate well and fully with the rest of European society, they ought to ensure that European Muslims are given the same equal opportunities as other European citizens and minority groups. If some European Muslims have turned their backs on their societies and sought refuge in the false asylum of the mosque, conservative imams and mullahs or communitarian politics, perhaps it is time to ask serious questions about the failure of nation building in Europe in the first place. "
USA Immigration Bill options / Zenit News Agency, 28 Mar 2006
http://www.zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=86757
"There are three options on which the U.S. Senate must decide.
The first is the Sensenbrenner bill, named after a congressman who sponsored it. The bill involves building a 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) wall on the Mexican border and classifying illegal immigrants as felons. The second is moderate amnesty. And the third, pushed by President George Bush, favors the regulation of labor but no amnesty. "[Snippet]
"There are three options on which the U.S. Senate must decide.
The first is the Sensenbrenner bill, named after a congressman who sponsored it. The bill involves building a 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) wall on the Mexican border and classifying illegal immigrants as felons. The second is moderate amnesty. And the third, pushed by President George Bush, favors the regulation of labor but no amnesty. "[Snippet]
Australia Weighs In On Porn Site Debate / IDM.net.au, 29 Mar 2006
http://www.idm.net.au/story.asp?id=7064
"The Canadian-based International Foundation for Online Responsibility (IFFOR), is seeking to register the .xxx domain saying that it would stop the spread of adult content to other domains such as .com and .org. It says that the domain will clearly label a site as adult orientated and aid in filtration. Proceeds from domain registrations would be used to help fund filter technology development and child protection initiatives."
"The Canadian-based International Foundation for Online Responsibility (IFFOR), is seeking to register the .xxx domain saying that it would stop the spread of adult content to other domains such as .com and .org. It says that the domain will clearly label a site as adult orientated and aid in filtration. Proceeds from domain registrations would be used to help fund filter technology development and child protection initiatives."
With lies for data, we'll create a national registry of garbage / The East African, 27
The East African - Opinion:
Joachim Buwembo
"Our attempts at setting up databases have so far been miserable failures and unless we can sift the truth from the lies that will be brought in from the field, the existing structures nationwide are set to render the ID venture a dismal failure. A look at Uganda's capacity to identify persons is in order. Can we start with the passports? Many foreigners from half the world away have obtained Ugandan passports in order to seek resettlement in the West. "
Joachim Buwembo
"Our attempts at setting up databases have so far been miserable failures and unless we can sift the truth from the lies that will be brought in from the field, the existing structures nationwide are set to render the ID venture a dismal failure. A look at Uganda's capacity to identify persons is in order. Can we start with the passports? Many foreigners from half the world away have obtained Ugandan passports in order to seek resettlement in the West. "
Serve and Protect? Black young people’s experiences of policing in the community / Centre for Criminal Justice Policy and Research, UCE, 2006
PDF - http://www.the-childrens-society.org.uk/media/pdf/JustJustice1.pdf
Professor Douglas Sharp
"This report presents the findings of a study undertaken
into the experiences of a group of young black people in
their encounters with the police. It is the second report in
the Children’s Society ‘Just Justice’ research programme
which was launched in 2002 and aims to listen to the
views of young black people who are involved in the
youth justice and criminal justice system in England
and Wales."
Professor Douglas Sharp
"This report presents the findings of a study undertaken
into the experiences of a group of young black people in
their encounters with the police. It is the second report in
the Children’s Society ‘Just Justice’ research programme
which was launched in 2002 and aims to listen to the
views of young black people who are involved in the
youth justice and criminal justice system in England
and Wales."
Meet the Asbo ancestors / BBC, 20 Mar 2006
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/4824808.stm
Dominic Casciani
"One of the oldest charities in the UK has been delving into its archives to discover how society has treated children through the ages. "
Dominic Casciani
"One of the oldest charities in the UK has been delving into its archives to discover how society has treated children through the ages. "
[New Zealand] NZ second in OECD serious crime stats / NZ Stuff, 29 Mar 2006
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3619149a10,00.html
"New Zealanders are more likely to be victims of crime than Americans, an international report has found. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), in its annual report on member countries, found Australians were more likely than people of any other developed nation to be victimised. New Zealand had the second highest number of victims, ahead of the United States, which recorded a fall in reported crime rates.
Large increases in crime were noted in England and Wales and Japan.
The figures showed that between 1990 and the latest available figures, Australia had the highest proportion of victims of assaults, threats and crimes of a sexual nature of the OECD's member nations, the second highest proportion of burglaries, and high rates of robberies, car thefts and thefts from cars. The incidence of sexual crimes was highest in Australia, Austria and the Netherlands.
Australia, England and Wales and the Netherlands had the highest proportion (more than 25 per cent) of respondents that reported having been victims of crime over the preceding 12 months.
The report noted that its figures relied on reported crime data: assault and sexual offences were heavily under-reported. The high crime rate was in large part due to vehicle-related crimes. People were fearful of contact crime. Over 6 per cent of the population experienced assaults and threats in Australia and Great Britain. " [Snippet]
"New Zealanders are more likely to be victims of crime than Americans, an international report has found. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), in its annual report on member countries, found Australians were more likely than people of any other developed nation to be victimised. New Zealand had the second highest number of victims, ahead of the United States, which recorded a fall in reported crime rates.
Large increases in crime were noted in England and Wales and Japan.
The figures showed that between 1990 and the latest available figures, Australia had the highest proportion of victims of assaults, threats and crimes of a sexual nature of the OECD's member nations, the second highest proportion of burglaries, and high rates of robberies, car thefts and thefts from cars. The incidence of sexual crimes was highest in Australia, Austria and the Netherlands.
Australia, England and Wales and the Netherlands had the highest proportion (more than 25 per cent) of respondents that reported having been victims of crime over the preceding 12 months.
The report noted that its figures relied on reported crime data: assault and sexual offences were heavily under-reported. The high crime rate was in large part due to vehicle-related crimes. People were fearful of contact crime. Over 6 per cent of the population experienced assaults and threats in Australia and Great Britain. " [Snippet]
[Australia] OECD crime report 'dated, irrelevant' / The Advertiser: , 29 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gxxw
"NEW South Wales Police Minister Carl Scully has labelled irrelevant and outdated a report showing serious crime is more likely to occur in Australia than in other developed nations. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) annual report found Australia had the highest rate of victimisation. It said Australia had the highest proportion of victims of assaults, threats and crimes of a sexual nature of the OECD's member nations, the second highest proportion of burglaries, and high rates of robberies, car thefts and thefts from cars.
Mr Scully said the most up-to-date figures in the report were from 2000 and he would ask the state's crime statistics agency to send more recent figures to the OECD.
'When I think of LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department) with 500 murders (a year) and we have 70 and I think of Chicago police with 550 murders a year and we have 70 I start to raise my eyebrows about how accurate that report is,' he said. 'And I see it's in the year 2000. It is completely and utterly out of date and irrelevant.' " [Snippet]
"NEW South Wales Police Minister Carl Scully has labelled irrelevant and outdated a report showing serious crime is more likely to occur in Australia than in other developed nations. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) annual report found Australia had the highest rate of victimisation. It said Australia had the highest proportion of victims of assaults, threats and crimes of a sexual nature of the OECD's member nations, the second highest proportion of burglaries, and high rates of robberies, car thefts and thefts from cars.
Mr Scully said the most up-to-date figures in the report were from 2000 and he would ask the state's crime statistics agency to send more recent figures to the OECD.
'When I think of LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department) with 500 murders (a year) and we have 70 and I think of Chicago police with 550 murders a year and we have 70 I start to raise my eyebrows about how accurate that report is,' he said. 'And I see it's in the year 2000. It is completely and utterly out of date and irrelevant.' " [Snippet]
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
'Active Diplomacy for a Changing World: The UK's International Priorities' / Foreign & Commonwealth Office Read the White Paper
PDF - http://www.fco.gov.uk/Files/kfile/fullintlpriorities2006.PDF
"Looks at managed migration, trafficking in people, passports etc."
See http://digbig.com/4gxtg for related items
"Looks at managed migration, trafficking in people, passports etc."
See http://digbig.com/4gxtg for related items
A Comparison of Integration Programmes in the EU: Trends and Weaknesses / CEPS, March 2006
PDF - http://shop.ceps.be/downfree.php?item_id=1310
Sergio Carrera
"This paper offers an overview of integration programmes for immigrants in a selected group of EU member states. The main trends and similarities are assessed and broadly compared. As the paper argues, in the national arena there appears to be a distinct move in the direction of integration programmes with a mandatory character. Obligatory participation in such programmes is now a regular feature of both immigration and citizenship legislation, and a precondition for having access to a secure juridical status."
Sergio Carrera
"This paper offers an overview of integration programmes for immigrants in a selected group of EU member states. The main trends and similarities are assessed and broadly compared. As the paper argues, in the national arena there appears to be a distinct move in the direction of integration programmes with a mandatory character. Obligatory participation in such programmes is now a regular feature of both immigration and citizenship legislation, and a precondition for having access to a secure juridical status."
EU withdraws proposal for biometric chips in visas / European Union Justice & Security, 22 Mar 2006
http://www.euractiv.com/Article?tcmuri=tcm:29-153614-16&type=News&Ref=mail
"The technological problems associated with introducing biometric chips into visas have proved insurmountable, forcing the Commission to drop the proposal altogether. "
"The technological problems associated with introducing biometric chips into visas have proved insurmountable, forcing the Commission to drop the proposal altogether. "
Whatever It Takes: How Twelve Communities Are Reconnecting Out-of-School Youth / American Youth Policy Forum, 2006
PDF - http://www.aypf.org/publications/WhateverItTakes/WITfull.pdf
Martin, N., & Halperin, S.
"This 196-page report provides background on the high school dropout problem and describes what twelve communities are doing to reconnect dropouts to education and employment training. It also describes national program models serving out-of-school youth."
Martin, N., & Halperin, S.
"This 196-page report provides background on the high school dropout problem and describes what twelve communities are doing to reconnect dropouts to education and employment training. It also describes national program models serving out-of-school youth."
Juvenile Offenders and Victims: 2006 National Report / OJJDP, March 2006
http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/ojstatbb/nr2006/index.html
PDF - http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/ojstatbb/nr2006/downloads/NR2006.pdf
"Presents comprehensive information on juvenile crime, violence, and victimization and on the juvenile justice system. This OJJDP National Report brings together the latest available statistics from a variety of sources and includes numerous tables, graphs, and maps, accompanied by analyses in clear, nontechnical language. "
PDF - http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/ojstatbb/nr2006/downloads/NR2006.pdf
"Presents comprehensive information on juvenile crime, violence, and victimization and on the juvenile justice system. This OJJDP National Report brings together the latest available statistics from a variety of sources and includes numerous tables, graphs, and maps, accompanied by analyses in clear, nontechnical language. "
New bag scanning system to automatically detect weapons / Innovations Report, 28 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gxsj
"Airport security experts at Manchester Metropolitan University are developing new bag scanning technology that could automatically detect weapons. Dr Peter Twigg, a senior lecturer in the Department of Engineering and Technology, is carrying out tests at Manchester Airport to find out how guns, pistols and hand grenades can be identified using an automated control system. The system aims to pick up weapons by matching their outline against objects in a pre-stored database. Existing scanning systems rely on operators to spot weapons and suspect packages. Although explosives can be detected automatically, there is currently no such system in place to automatically identify weapons, Dr Twigg said. Bag scanning staff typically work 20-minute shifts before taking a break and, although they are well trained, there is always room for human error. Potentially our system is much more accurate and could boost public confidence in airport security. The prototype database currently holds six images of three different weapons, taken from different angles, and a neural network allows the system to match new images against those stored on file. The researchers are now using bag scanning facilities at Manchester Airport to test the reliability of their technology. We are looking to expand the database and even include components of different weapons and ammunition, Dr Twigg said. We see it working alongside scanning operators who will need to implement security procedures if a weapon was identified and the alarm sounds. The researchers are seeking funding to develop the technology. " [Snippet]
"Airport security experts at Manchester Metropolitan University are developing new bag scanning technology that could automatically detect weapons. Dr Peter Twigg, a senior lecturer in the Department of Engineering and Technology, is carrying out tests at Manchester Airport to find out how guns, pistols and hand grenades can be identified using an automated control system. The system aims to pick up weapons by matching their outline against objects in a pre-stored database. Existing scanning systems rely on operators to spot weapons and suspect packages. Although explosives can be detected automatically, there is currently no such system in place to automatically identify weapons, Dr Twigg said. Bag scanning staff typically work 20-minute shifts before taking a break and, although they are well trained, there is always room for human error. Potentially our system is much more accurate and could boost public confidence in airport security. The prototype database currently holds six images of three different weapons, taken from different angles, and a neural network allows the system to match new images against those stored on file. The researchers are now using bag scanning facilities at Manchester Airport to test the reliability of their technology. We are looking to expand the database and even include components of different weapons and ammunition, Dr Twigg said. We see it working alongside scanning operators who will need to implement security procedures if a weapon was identified and the alarm sounds. The researchers are seeking funding to develop the technology. " [Snippet]
The state of faith: politics, religion and the state / ippr - Institute for Public Policy Research, 21 Mar 2006
http://www.ippr.org.uk/events/archive.asp?id=1937&fID=174
Listen to the keynote speech (35 MB) given by Rt Hon Charles Clarke MP.
Listen to the Panel Discussion (49 MB) with David Blunkett, Tariq Ramadan and Kenan Malik, chaired by David Aaronovitch.
Download Pippa Norris' presentation.
Listen to the keynote speech (35 MB) given by Rt Hon Charles Clarke MP.
Listen to the Panel Discussion (49 MB) with David Blunkett, Tariq Ramadan and Kenan Malik, chaired by David Aaronovitch.
Download Pippa Norris' presentation.
[Brunei] Police investigate if syndicates producThe Borneo Bulletin (Brunei), 27 Mar 2006 ing fake immigration papers /
http://www.brunei-online.com/bb/mon/mar27b2.htm
Arman Gunsika
"Police have launched an investigation to find out if there are syndicates involved in the production of forged identification documents in Sabah, as the offence promises lucrative returns considering the strong demand for fake immigration papers. In a related development, the assistant industrial development minister Jainab Datuk Hj Ahmad Ayid reminded local community leaders not to certify documents produced by foreign nationals or face legal action, which include the prospects of a longer jail term, heavier fines and dismissal from their posts.
A number of village elders have been found to certify documents by illegal immigrants seeking study scholarships, personal identification documents, local residents status and land purchases for money, she revealed. Community leaders must strive to live up to the responsibilities entrusted to them by the local people, to ensure that their rights don't get appropriated by foreigners. " [Snippet]
Arman Gunsika
"Police have launched an investigation to find out if there are syndicates involved in the production of forged identification documents in Sabah, as the offence promises lucrative returns considering the strong demand for fake immigration papers. In a related development, the assistant industrial development minister Jainab Datuk Hj Ahmad Ayid reminded local community leaders not to certify documents produced by foreign nationals or face legal action, which include the prospects of a longer jail term, heavier fines and dismissal from their posts.
A number of village elders have been found to certify documents by illegal immigrants seeking study scholarships, personal identification documents, local residents status and land purchases for money, she revealed. Community leaders must strive to live up to the responsibilities entrusted to them by the local people, to ensure that their rights don't get appropriated by foreigners. " [Snippet]
[Spain] 32 suspects accused of plot to bomb court / Expatica, 27 Mar 2006
Expatica's Spanish news in English: 32 suspects accused of plot to bomb court:
"A judge has indicted 32 suspected Islamic extremists in a failed plot to attack the National Court in Madrid, which tries terrorism cases. The suspects allegedly planned to pack a lorry with explosives and drive it into the building. The indictments were issued last week, but were only made public on Tuesday to coincide with a hearing for eight of the 32 suspects at the court. The rest will be formally notified of the indictments later this week.
The plot aimed to pack a truck with 500 kilogrammes of explosives and drive it into the National Court building, where nearly a thousand people work daily, including judges, prosecutors, lawyers and police officers, according to the 23-page indictment. The 32 suspects are charged with 'belonging to a terrorist group' and 'conspiracy to commit a terrorist attack with resulting deaths' and also with document forgery, the indictment said." [Snippet]
"A judge has indicted 32 suspected Islamic extremists in a failed plot to attack the National Court in Madrid, which tries terrorism cases. The suspects allegedly planned to pack a lorry with explosives and drive it into the building. The indictments were issued last week, but were only made public on Tuesday to coincide with a hearing for eight of the 32 suspects at the court. The rest will be formally notified of the indictments later this week.
The plot aimed to pack a truck with 500 kilogrammes of explosives and drive it into the National Court building, where nearly a thousand people work daily, including judges, prosecutors, lawyers and police officers, according to the 23-page indictment. The 32 suspects are charged with 'belonging to a terrorist group' and 'conspiracy to commit a terrorist attack with resulting deaths' and also with document forgery, the indictment said." [Snippet]
[France] Trial of suspected terrorists opens in Paris / Expatica, 27 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gxra
"The trial of 27 people suspected of planning terrorist attacks in France opened Monday in a Paris court, following one of the country's biggest anti-terrorism investigations in recent years. They are charged with associating with criminals connected to a terrorist organisation. Some of the suspects have given statements claiming that attacks were planned against French targets including the Eiffel Tower, police stations and a central Paris shopping centre."
"The trial of 27 people suspected of planning terrorist attacks in France opened Monday in a Paris court, following one of the country's biggest anti-terrorism investigations in recent years. They are charged with associating with criminals connected to a terrorist organisation. Some of the suspects have given statements claiming that attacks were planned against French targets including the Eiffel Tower, police stations and a central Paris shopping centre."
National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign and School-Based Drug Prevention: Evidence for a Synergistic Effect in ALERT Plus
Addictive Behavior, Vol. 31, No. 3, March 2006, pp. 496-508
Douglas Longshore, Bonnie Ghosh-Dastidara, Phyllis L. Ellickson
"This analysis examines the possible synergistic effect of exposure to the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign and a classroom-based drug prevention curriculum among 9th grade students participating in ALERT Plus. A total of 45 South Dakota high schools and their middle-school feeder(s) were randomly assigned to an ALERT condition (basic prevention curriculum delivered in 7th and 8th grades), an ALERT Plus condition (basic curriculum with booster lessons added for 9th and 10th grades), or a control condition. Marijuana use in the past month was significantly less likely among ALERT Plus students reporting at least weekly exposure to anti-drug media messages." [Sub Required]
Douglas Longshore, Bonnie Ghosh-Dastidara, Phyllis L. Ellickson
"This analysis examines the possible synergistic effect of exposure to the National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign and a classroom-based drug prevention curriculum among 9th grade students participating in ALERT Plus. A total of 45 South Dakota high schools and their middle-school feeder(s) were randomly assigned to an ALERT condition (basic prevention curriculum delivered in 7th and 8th grades), an ALERT Plus condition (basic curriculum with booster lessons added for 9th and 10th grades), or a control condition. Marijuana use in the past month was significantly less likely among ALERT Plus students reporting at least weekly exposure to anti-drug media messages." [Sub Required]
Monday, March 27, 2006
Cannabis lifts emphysema risk [March 28, 2006] / The Australian, 28 Mar 2006
http://theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5744,18627229%5E2702,00.html?from=rss
Adam Cresswell,
"CANNABIS smokers risk developing emphysema 20 years before it tends to strike tobacco smokers, Australian researchers have found. Experts say the findings suggest the potentially serious lung condition could be more widespread in cannabis smokers than first thought. The higher temperature of cannabis smoke and different inhalation behaviour may explain the greater risk. "
Adam Cresswell,
"CANNABIS smokers risk developing emphysema 20 years before it tends to strike tobacco smokers, Australian researchers have found. Experts say the findings suggest the potentially serious lung condition could be more widespread in cannabis smokers than first thought. The higher temperature of cannabis smoke and different inhalation behaviour may explain the greater risk. "
Russia Ratifies European Terrorism Prevention Convention / MOSNEWS.COM, 24 Mar 2006
http://www.mosnews.com/news/2006/03/24/counterterror.shtml
"The Russian State Duma has ratified the Council of Europe's Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism. The convention binds signatory countries to closely cooperate in enforcing the principle, either extradite or prosecute. An explanatory note to the ratification documents says that signatory countries are bound to introduce criminal responsibility for individuals backing or assisting terrorists. The key innovation of the convention is the recognition of three aspects of terrorism as criminal offenses - public statements promoting terrorist operations, the training of and the recruiting of terrorists, the note says. The convention is aimed at preventing terrorists and their sponsors from accessing the Internet and other mass media. It also provides for special training of law enforcement agencies and special services, and for their cooperation, especially in emergencies. Thirty-one countries have signed the convention, including the United Kingdom, Italy and Spain. Russia joined in November 2005. " [Snippet]
"The Russian State Duma has ratified the Council of Europe's Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism. The convention binds signatory countries to closely cooperate in enforcing the principle, either extradite or prosecute. An explanatory note to the ratification documents says that signatory countries are bound to introduce criminal responsibility for individuals backing or assisting terrorists. The key innovation of the convention is the recognition of three aspects of terrorism as criminal offenses - public statements promoting terrorist operations, the training of and the recruiting of terrorists, the note says. The convention is aimed at preventing terrorists and their sponsors from accessing the Internet and other mass media. It also provides for special training of law enforcement agencies and special services, and for their cooperation, especially in emergencies. Thirty-one countries have signed the convention, including the United Kingdom, Italy and Spain. Russia joined in November 2005. " [Snippet]
'Squeal deals' for police informants aimed at netting crime bosses / Scotsman, 27 Mar 2006
http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=471422006
KURT BAYER
"CRIMINALS who inform on their friends could be given FBI-style 'squeal deal' incentives by police in an effort to crackdown on the bosses behind big-time organised crime.
Under new police plans, criminals could be given written contracts guaranteeing a reduced sentence if they give information that could lead to the prosecution of others.
They must first plead guilty to qualify, and will receive reduced sentences in return, in a move similar to that offered by the FBI in America. The measures are part of the Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Bill that could come into force as early as June."
KURT BAYER
"CRIMINALS who inform on their friends could be given FBI-style 'squeal deal' incentives by police in an effort to crackdown on the bosses behind big-time organised crime.
Under new police plans, criminals could be given written contracts guaranteeing a reduced sentence if they give information that could lead to the prosecution of others.
They must first plead guilty to qualify, and will receive reduced sentences in return, in a move similar to that offered by the FBI in America. The measures are part of the Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Bill that could come into force as early as June."
[Norway] Holiday getaway? No, it's a prison / The Electric New Paper News, 25 Mar 2006
http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/news/story/0,4136,103996,00.html
"Unlike normal prisons, the 115 inmates at Bastoy Prison not only get to roam free, they can also indulge in a spot of skiing, tennis and horse-riding. And the only hard labour they do is environmental work the likes of which Greenpeace would be proud of."
See also From humiliation towards vitalization From discipline to responsibility.Alnaes Quivind, Erik Saheim / Norway
http://www.epea.org/7thconf/ws-quivind.htm
"Unlike normal prisons, the 115 inmates at Bastoy Prison not only get to roam free, they can also indulge in a spot of skiing, tennis and horse-riding. And the only hard labour they do is environmental work the likes of which Greenpeace would be proud of."
See also From humiliation towards vitalization From discipline to responsibility.Alnaes Quivind, Erik Saheim / Norway
http://www.epea.org/7thconf/ws-quivind.htm
Crime and capitulation / Telegraph, 27 Ma4 2006
http://digbig.com/4gxjw
David Fraser
"Each week, a murder or rape is committed by offenders supposedly under supervision. Yet, even knee-deep in evidence of its own failure, the National Probation Service cannot acknowledge its inability to reform these criminals. It is all a deadly con trick."
Aso at http://crimenet.blogspot.com/2006/03/crime-and-probation.html
David Fraser
"Each week, a murder or rape is committed by offenders supposedly under supervision. Yet, even knee-deep in evidence of its own failure, the National Probation Service cannot acknowledge its inability to reform these criminals. It is all a deadly con trick."
Aso at http://crimenet.blogspot.com/2006/03/crime-and-probation.html
Victim's Charter / CJS, 2006
PDF - http://www.cjsonline.gov.uk/downloads/application/pdf/Victims%20Charter%20-%20English.pdf
"In April 2006, the Charter will be replaced by the Victims' Code of Practice. The statutory code builds on the commitments laid out in the Charter, to set minimum standards of service that victims and witnesses can expect from the Criminal Justice System agencies."
Code of Practice ( becomes law in April 2006)
PDF - http://www.cjsonline.gov.uk/downloads/application/pdf/Victims%20Code%20of%20Practice.pdf
"In April 2006, the Charter will be replaced by the Victims' Code of Practice. The statutory code builds on the commitments laid out in the Charter, to set minimum standards of service that victims and witnesses can expect from the Criminal Justice System agencies."
Code of Practice ( becomes law in April 2006)
PDF - http://www.cjsonline.gov.uk/downloads/application/pdf/Victims%20Code%20of%20Practice.pdf
Britain: More evidence suggests July 7 bombings were preventable / World Socialist Website, 27 Mar 2006
http://www.wsws.org/articles/2006/mar2006/mi5-m27.shtml
Paul Mitchell
"Recent leaks are believed to be the work of intelligence officers who do not want MI5 to take the rap for alleged “intelligence failings” leading up to the bombings and instead are seeking to blame government ministers for withholding information from the public."
Paul Mitchell
"Recent leaks are believed to be the work of intelligence officers who do not want MI5 to take the rap for alleged “intelligence failings” leading up to the bombings and instead are seeking to blame government ministers for withholding information from the public."
The New Security Perception and the Policing of Crisis Management: 7/7 London Bombings / Journal of the Turkish Weekly, 24 Mar 2006
http://www.turkishweekly.net/news.php?id=28597
Murat Sogangoz-Emre Ozkan
"The speaker's critical approach of states perceptions on terrorism gives some clue about how to develop an effective front against terrorism. By emphasizing the transformation in the nature of the nation states and using the phrase 'post modern condition', he explains why states and the international community fail to develop effective methods against terrorism. Citing three principles, he also draws the framework of crisis management which can be applied in case of a terrorist attack."
Murat Sogangoz-Emre Ozkan
"The speaker's critical approach of states perceptions on terrorism gives some clue about how to develop an effective front against terrorism. By emphasizing the transformation in the nature of the nation states and using the phrase 'post modern condition', he explains why states and the international community fail to develop effective methods against terrorism. Citing three principles, he also draws the framework of crisis management which can be applied in case of a terrorist attack."
The development of the Sex Offender Psychometric Scoring System (SOPSSys) for use in the Probation Service / 53 (1): 71Probation Journal
http://prb.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/53/1/71 Mandeville-Norden et al.
"Within the probation service for England and Wales, a number of psychometric assessments are typically administered to offenders who attend structured group-based interventions. These assessments help to measure the offenders' progress in treatment. The assessments that are used with the sex offender treatment programmes can also help to determine the offenders' level of treatment need, and consequently the length of treatment that would be appropriate. The time taken to manually score these assessments is therefore significant, and consequently highly resource intensive. The current article describes a computer-based scoring system that has been developed to make this process quicker and more efficient. The processes and considerations involved in designing the system are discussed, as are the benefits and the implications of using it. " [Sub Required]
"Within the probation service for England and Wales, a number of psychometric assessments are typically administered to offenders who attend structured group-based interventions. These assessments help to measure the offenders' progress in treatment. The assessments that are used with the sex offender treatment programmes can also help to determine the offenders' level of treatment need, and consequently the length of treatment that would be appropriate. The time taken to manually score these assessments is therefore significant, and consequently highly resource intensive. The current article describes a computer-based scoring system that has been developed to make this process quicker and more efficient. The processes and considerations involved in designing the system are discussed, as are the benefits and the implications of using it. " [Sub Required]
China to catch drug takers with new test / China View, 27 Mar 2006
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2006-03/27/content_4348019.htm
"Chinese scientists have invented a device that can easily detect a drug taker simply from the way his pupils react to certain rays. The technology, developed by scientists in southwestern Yunnan province, has proved successful in six pilot projects in local villages. In the tests, 891 cannabis smokers were mixed with 826 non-drug takers. The device was able to catch 93.94 percent of the addicts if they smoked the drug the day before the test, and 88.52 percent of them if they did it six days before. No non-drug takers were mistaken for smoking the drug in the tests, scientists with the department said. For addicts to opium or its related drugs, lights of certain wavelength and intensity make their pupils expand and contract, they said, adding that the new device can find out 'how much a person is addicted to drugs.'
The technology is obviously more advanced than similar detection techniques applied by police across the country, and it will be a good help if promoted nationwide, the scientists said. " [Snippet]
"Chinese scientists have invented a device that can easily detect a drug taker simply from the way his pupils react to certain rays. The technology, developed by scientists in southwestern Yunnan province, has proved successful in six pilot projects in local villages. In the tests, 891 cannabis smokers were mixed with 826 non-drug takers. The device was able to catch 93.94 percent of the addicts if they smoked the drug the day before the test, and 88.52 percent of them if they did it six days before. No non-drug takers were mistaken for smoking the drug in the tests, scientists with the department said. For addicts to opium or its related drugs, lights of certain wavelength and intensity make their pupils expand and contract, they said, adding that the new device can find out 'how much a person is addicted to drugs.'
The technology is obviously more advanced than similar detection techniques applied by police across the country, and it will be a good help if promoted nationwide, the scientists said. " [Snippet]
Prisons and Beyond / Drink & Drugs, 27 Mar 2006
PDF - http://www.drinkanddrugs.net/features/march2706/prisons_and_beyond.pdf
"The first ‘Prisons and Beyond’ conference in Leicester gave a snapshot of what’s working well in prison drug treatment – and what’s not. ‘Too much paperwork’ and ‘not enough resources’ were perhaps to be expected, but other thought-provoking feedback reflected a need for better communication and care planning to take the client out of the continuous loop of crime and prison, and back into the community."
"The first ‘Prisons and Beyond’ conference in Leicester gave a snapshot of what’s working well in prison drug treatment – and what’s not. ‘Too much paperwork’ and ‘not enough resources’ were perhaps to be expected, but other thought-provoking feedback reflected a need for better communication and care planning to take the client out of the continuous loop of crime and prison, and back into the community."
Drug Use, Smoking and Drinking Among Young People in England in 2005 - Headline Figures � Portal
PDF - http://www.ic.nhs.uk/pubs/drugsmokedrinkyoungeng2005/finalreport.pdf/file
"The 2005 survey showed that around 11% of 11-15 years olds had taken drugs in the last month, 9% had smoked at least one cigarette a week and 22% had drunk alcohol in the last week. "
"The 2005 survey showed that around 11% of 11-15 years olds had taken drugs in the last month, 9% had smoked at least one cigarette a week and 22% had drunk alcohol in the last week. "
Mandatory and Coerced Treatment / Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse, 2006
PDF - http://www.ccsa.ca/NR/rdonlyres/379BFB3A-02A1-49B3-9ABB-CCEF7EF9A811/0/ccsa0036482006.pdf
Rebecca Mugford ; Dr. John Weekes
"This fact sheet examining the issue of mandatory and coerced treatment was prepared byIt is intended to give a current, evidence-based overview of the issues."
Rebecca Mugford ; Dr. John Weekes
"This fact sheet examining the issue of mandatory and coerced treatment was prepared byIt is intended to give a current, evidence-based overview of the issues."
Visions, BC’s Mental Health and Addictions Journal, Vol. 2 No. 8, Winter 2005
PDF - http://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/publications/visions/8.pdf
Mental Illness and Criminal Justice: Where Tolerance Breaks Down / Stephen Hart [guest editorial] p.4 +A Long Way to Go / Patrick Storey and Jim White - p.6+
"The Correctional Investigator, an ombudsman for federal
inmates, has recently reported that the numbers
of men and women in federal prison with significant
identified mental health needs has more than doubled
over the last decade.
An Enduring Stereotype: Criminalization of Mental Illness
in the Media / Kim Meier. p.7+
Treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders in BC: What’s Missing? / Ray Baker, p8+
The Criminalization of Individuals with Mental Illness / David Simpson, p.10+
Preventing Homelessness Following Prison Release / Judy Graves, p/13+
Canada’s Penitentiaries: Not equipped to care for growing numbers of prisoners with mental illnessess / Howard Sapers p. 14+
Criminalizing Mental Illness / Camia Weaver, p.16
et al.
Mental Illness and Criminal Justice: Where Tolerance Breaks Down / Stephen Hart [guest editorial] p.4 +A Long Way to Go / Patrick Storey and Jim White - p.6+
"The Correctional Investigator, an ombudsman for federal
inmates, has recently reported that the numbers
of men and women in federal prison with significant
identified mental health needs has more than doubled
over the last decade.
An Enduring Stereotype: Criminalization of Mental Illness
in the Media / Kim Meier. p.7+
Treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders in BC: What’s Missing? / Ray Baker, p8+
The Criminalization of Individuals with Mental Illness / David Simpson, p.10+
Preventing Homelessness Following Prison Release / Judy Graves, p/13+
Canada’s Penitentiaries: Not equipped to care for growing numbers of prisoners with mental illnessess / Howard Sapers p. 14+
Criminalizing Mental Illness / Camia Weaver, p.16
et al.
Final Report on the Impact of United States v. Booker on Federal Sentencing / US Sentencing Commission, March 2006
PDF - http://www.ussc.gov/booker_report/Booker_Report.pdf
"Rather than leading to more lenient sentencing, the median sentence length in the year following Booker actually increased. The median sentence increased from 33 months to 36 months in 2005, and a higher percentage of all persons sentenced went to prison (88.6% vs. 85.9) rather than alternatives to incarceration. Some of this increase has been attributed to stiffer sentencing penalties for theft and fraud, which underscores that even under an advisory system, Congressional mandates regarding sentence length are not being thwarted by judicial discretion."
"Rather than leading to more lenient sentencing, the median sentence length in the year following Booker actually increased. The median sentence increased from 33 months to 36 months in 2005, and a higher percentage of all persons sentenced went to prison (88.6% vs. 85.9) rather than alternatives to incarceration. Some of this increase has been attributed to stiffer sentencing penalties for theft and fraud, which underscores that even under an advisory system, Congressional mandates regarding sentence length are not being thwarted by judicial discretion."
Drug - Free School Zone Laws Questioned / New York Times, 23 Mar 2006
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/national/AP-Drug-Free-Zones.html?_r=1&oref=slogin
''For two decades, policy-makers have mistakenly assumed that these statutes shield children from drug activity,'' said report co-author Judith Greene, a New York-based researcher. ''We found no evidence that drug-free zone laws protect children, but ample evidence that the laws hurt communities of color and contribute to mounting correctional costs.''
''For two decades, policy-makers have mistakenly assumed that these statutes shield children from drug activity,'' said report co-author Judith Greene, a New York-based researcher. ''We found no evidence that drug-free zone laws protect children, but ample evidence that the laws hurt communities of color and contribute to mounting correctional costs.''
Friday, March 03, 2006
Countering Terrorist Mobility / Migration Information Source,
http://www.migrationinformation.org/Feature/display.cfm?id=379
Susan Ginsburg
"Examine how counterterrorism strategy relates to border security and immigration reform, and how terrorist mobility could be countered. "
Susan Ginsburg
"Examine how counterterrorism strategy relates to border security and immigration reform, and how terrorist mobility could be countered. "
Religious Extremism is Spreading Among Muslim Youth in the U.S. / MEMRI, 3 Mar 2006
http://www.memri.org/bin/opener_latest.cgi?ID=SD110506
"In an article published in the London Arabic daily Al-Quds Al-Arabi, Dr. Muhriz Al-Husseini, director of the Center for Dialogue and Research and editor of the U.S.-published newspaper Al-Minassa Al-'Arabiya, warns that religious extremism and ignorance are spreading among the young generation of Muslims in the U.S. "
"In an article published in the London Arabic daily Al-Quds Al-Arabi, Dr. Muhriz Al-Husseini, director of the Center for Dialogue and Research and editor of the U.S.-published newspaper Al-Minassa Al-'Arabiya, warns that religious extremism and ignorance are spreading among the young generation of Muslims in the U.S. "
[Bermuda] Countdown to the expat exodus / Bermuda Sun, 1 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnww
Meredith Ebbin
"Hundreds of foreign workers will have to pack their bags and leave the island early next year to comply with new immigration regulations. Letters have been mailed out to employers, telling them to prepare for April 1, 2007, when work permit holders will have to quit the island if they've been here for six years. "
Meredith Ebbin
"Hundreds of foreign workers will have to pack their bags and leave the island early next year to comply with new immigration regulations. Letters have been mailed out to employers, telling them to prepare for April 1, 2007, when work permit holders will have to quit the island if they've been here for six years. "
Migration, Integration, and Security in the UK Since July 7 / Migration Information Source, 1 Mar 2006
http://www.migrationinformation.org/Feature/display.cfm?id=383
James Hampshire and Shamit Saggar- University of Sussex
James Hampshire and Shamit Saggar- University of Sussex
The refugee problem - time for a 'new order' / On Line Opinion, 3 Mar 2006
http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=4103
Guy Goodwin-Gill
"Beyond protection, the goals of any future international refugee protection system will surely include those which are now entrusted to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third state. They will also surely include better provision in allocating responsibilities, a more sure funding base, and a greater involvement of, or access to, the political processes."
Guy Goodwin-Gill
"Beyond protection, the goals of any future international refugee protection system will surely include those which are now entrusted to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third state. They will also surely include better provision in allocating responsibilities, a more sure funding base, and a greater involvement of, or access to, the political processes."
The refugee problem - time for a 'new order' / On Line Opinion, 3 Mar 2006
http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=4103
Guy Goodwin-Gill
"Beyond protection, the goals of any future international refugee protection system will surely include those which are now entrusted to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third state.
They will also surely include better provision in allocating responsibilities, a more sure funding base, and a greater involvement of, or access to, the political processes."
Guy Goodwin-Gill
"Beyond protection, the goals of any future international refugee protection system will surely include those which are now entrusted to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third state.
They will also surely include better provision in allocating responsibilities, a more sure funding base, and a greater involvement of, or access to, the political processes."
The refugee problem - time for a 'new order' / On Line Opinion, 3 Mar 2006
http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=4103
Guy Goodwin-Gill
"Beyond protection, the goals of any future international refugee protection system will surely include those which are now entrusted to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third state.
They will also surely include better provision in allocating responsibilities, a more sure funding base, and a greater involvement of, or access to, the political processes."
Guy Goodwin-Gill
"Beyond protection, the goals of any future international refugee protection system will surely include those which are now entrusted to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement in a third state.
They will also surely include better provision in allocating responsibilities, a more sure funding base, and a greater involvement of, or access to, the political processes."
Fortress Europe - effects and consequences of labour migration / IRR, 1 Mar 2006
http://www.irr.org.uk/2006/march/ha000008.html
Liz Fekete
"The terms differ - 'Selective Migration' in France, 'Managed Migration' in the UK, 'Labour Migration' in Germany - but call it what you will, central to the debate is the idea that we are moving away from the zero immigration of Fortress Europe into a new era of liberalised immigration controls. Yet, the truth of the matter is that the Fortress Europe approach that characterised the end of the twentieth century is, today, not so much abandoned as refined."
Liz Fekete
"The terms differ - 'Selective Migration' in France, 'Managed Migration' in the UK, 'Labour Migration' in Germany - but call it what you will, central to the debate is the idea that we are moving away from the zero immigration of Fortress Europe into a new era of liberalised immigration controls. Yet, the truth of the matter is that the Fortress Europe approach that characterised the end of the twentieth century is, today, not so much abandoned as refined."
Whitehall reviews foreign artists' visa costs / The Stage Online, 2 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnwn
Alistair Smith
"Arts campaigners and immigration law experts had feared that revisions to the work permit system, by which all foreign workers applying for entry to the UK, could have meant a prohibitive increase in costs for companies booking foreign acts. This would have dissuaded many groups from visiting the country or venues from booking them."
Alistair Smith
"Arts campaigners and immigration law experts had feared that revisions to the work permit system, by which all foreign workers applying for entry to the UK, could have meant a prohibitive increase in costs for companies booking foreign acts. This would have dissuaded many groups from visiting the country or venues from booking them."
[Australia] Race gangs take crime war to city / Herald Sun, 3 Mar 2006
Herald Sun: Race gangs take crime war to city [03mar06]: Paul Anderson
"RACE-BASED gangs who bash their victims to steal wallets and mobile phones are moving from the suburbs into the city's entertainment district. Gangs such as Full-Blooded Islanders, Viets In Defence and Brothers For Life are becoming more violent, police sources say."
"RACE-BASED gangs who bash their victims to steal wallets and mobile phones are moving from the suburbs into the city's entertainment district. Gangs such as Full-Blooded Islanders, Viets In Defence and Brothers For Life are becoming more violent, police sources say."
Cops use videotape to stop city gangs causing trouble / Evening Times, 2 Mar 2006
http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/hi/news/5049537.html
David Leak
"Police in Maryhill reckon they have cut youth disorder in just three weeks - simply by taping groups of potential troublemakers. Officers have been openly filming gangs as they gather so they have a record of who is on the streets in case fighting kicks off. "
David Leak
"Police in Maryhill reckon they have cut youth disorder in just three weeks - simply by taping groups of potential troublemakers. Officers have been openly filming gangs as they gather so they have a record of who is on the streets in case fighting kicks off. "
ORGANISED CRIME.. WHY ALL THE LIES? / The Daily Record, 3 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnwe
Reg McKay
"Our teams work hand in hand with the Russian mafia, Moroccan drug traders, eastern European mobs, Yardies - you name it. Where there's money to be made, there'll be players working together to make it. So finally Scottish cops are responding to this aspect of crime. Yet the question is what took them so long and why for such a long, long time did they deny the obvious? Was it to help us sleep easier at night? Is that what they were doing by telling us one thing when the truth was so obviously something else? "
Reg McKay
"Our teams work hand in hand with the Russian mafia, Moroccan drug traders, eastern European mobs, Yardies - you name it. Where there's money to be made, there'll be players working together to make it. So finally Scottish cops are responding to this aspect of crime. Yet the question is what took them so long and why for such a long, long time did they deny the obvious? Was it to help us sleep easier at night? Is that what they were doing by telling us one thing when the truth was so obviously something else? "
British government refuses to ban qat / Yemen Times, Mar 2006
http://yementimes.com/article.shtml?i=925&p=report&a=3
Shaker Al-Makhadhi
"Despite months of pressure to ban it, the British government has decided not to outlaw the favorite drug of London's Yemeni and Somali communities. The drug is illegal in the US, Canada, parts of Europe and many Arab countries, and over the past few months, calls have been growing for it to be criminalised in the UK too."
Shaker Al-Makhadhi
"Despite months of pressure to ban it, the British government has decided not to outlaw the favorite drug of London's Yemeni and Somali communities. The drug is illegal in the US, Canada, parts of Europe and many Arab countries, and over the past few months, calls have been growing for it to be criminalised in the UK too."
Thursday, March 02, 2006
[Germany] Wanted: Ethnic Minority Cops for Germany / Deutsche Welle, 2 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnnt
"Less than 2 percent of its ethnic minorities are estimated to work in the public service sector despite making up 13 percent of Berlin's 3-million-strong population. Studies show the pattern is reflected across all of Germany. "
"Less than 2 percent of its ethnic minorities are estimated to work in the public service sector despite making up 13 percent of Berlin's 3-million-strong population. Studies show the pattern is reflected across all of Germany. "
[Australia] Drug-driving fines revealed [02mar06] / The Advertiser, 2 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnmy
Anna Vlach
"SOUTH Australian motorists caught with even a trace of illegal drugs in their systems will face fines of up to $900 and lose demerit points from as early as July. Revealing the penalties yesterday, police Assistant Commissioner Grant Stevens said the tender process had just commenced for kits to be used in random roadside drug testing. The testing, expected to be in operation by mid-July, will be based on a world-first Victorian trial which was extended "
Anna Vlach
"SOUTH Australian motorists caught with even a trace of illegal drugs in their systems will face fines of up to $900 and lose demerit points from as early as July. Revealing the penalties yesterday, police Assistant Commissioner Grant Stevens said the tender process had just commenced for kits to be used in random roadside drug testing. The testing, expected to be in operation by mid-July, will be based on a world-first Victorian trial which was extended "
France: Text of the new anti-terrorist law / Statewatch News, Feb 2006
http://www.statewatch.org/news/2006/feb/11-france-anti-terr-law.htm
"The new antiterrorist law, which contains provisions concerning security and border controls, introduces changes affecting: videosurveillance (chapter 1); the control of travel, and the use of information on telephone and electronic exchanges by people who are liable to take part in terrorist acts (ch. 2); the automatic treatment of personal data (ch. 3); the repression of terrorism and the execution of sentences (ch. 4); measures concerning the victims of terrorism (ch. 5); the loss of French nationality (ch. 6); provisions affecting audio-visual broadcasters (ch. 7); combating the financing of terrorism (ch. 8); private security activity and airport security (ch. 9); provisions affecting overseas territories (ch. 10); and final provisions (ch. 11).
http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/WAspad/UnTexteDeJorf?numjo=INTX0500242L in French, pdf). LOI no 2006-64 du 23 janvier 2006 relative à la lutte contre le terrorisme et portant dispositions diverses relatives à la sécurité et aux contrôles frontaliers (1). Source: Journal Officiel de la République Française, 24.1.2006.
The page of the French Senate concerning this law is particularly helpful, as it contains the opinion of the Constitutional Court ( http://www.conseil-constitutionnel.fr/decision/2006/2005532/2005532dc.htm ) which considers some aspects of articles 6 and 19 to be unconstitutional, reports by the different commissions that have examined it, and documents the legislative stages that the law has undergone in detail. The French Senate's legislative dossier on the new antiterrorist law is available at: http://www.senat.fr/dossierleg/pjl05-109.html "[ Snippet]
"The new antiterrorist law, which contains provisions concerning security and border controls, introduces changes affecting: videosurveillance (chapter 1); the control of travel, and the use of information on telephone and electronic exchanges by people who are liable to take part in terrorist acts (ch. 2); the automatic treatment of personal data (ch. 3); the repression of terrorism and the execution of sentences (ch. 4); measures concerning the victims of terrorism (ch. 5); the loss of French nationality (ch. 6); provisions affecting audio-visual broadcasters (ch. 7); combating the financing of terrorism (ch. 8); private security activity and airport security (ch. 9); provisions affecting overseas territories (ch. 10); and final provisions (ch. 11).
http://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/WAspad/UnTexteDeJorf?numjo=INTX0500242L in French, pdf). LOI no 2006-64 du 23 janvier 2006 relative à la lutte contre le terrorisme et portant dispositions diverses relatives à la sécurité et aux contrôles frontaliers (1). Source: Journal Officiel de la République Française, 24.1.2006.
The page of the French Senate concerning this law is particularly helpful, as it contains the opinion of the Constitutional Court ( http://www.conseil-constitutionnel.fr/decision/2006/2005532/2005532dc.htm ) which considers some aspects of articles 6 and 19 to be unconstitutional, reports by the different commissions that have examined it, and documents the legislative stages that the law has undergone in detail. The French Senate's legislative dossier on the new antiterrorist law is available at: http://www.senat.fr/dossierleg/pjl05-109.html "[ Snippet]
Italy: Decree to implement electronic passports containing biometric data / Statewatch News, Feb 2006
http://www.statewatch.org/news/2006/feb/08italy-biometric-passports.htm
"The chip will store facial images (digitised photos) and the fingerprint of the index finger of both hands, as well as information about the holder of the passport. It will be in 'interoperable' format and contain codes to ensure the protection and to prevent the alteration of data, and to make it possible for officers from control agencies to read the data. The biometric data can only be used to verify the authenticity of the document and the holder's identity through elements that are available for comparison in instances in which passports or travel documents are required by law. Interestingly the decree also states that: 'Biometric data collected for the issuing of the passport will not be stored in databases'"
"The chip will store facial images (digitised photos) and the fingerprint of the index finger of both hands, as well as information about the holder of the passport. It will be in 'interoperable' format and contain codes to ensure the protection and to prevent the alteration of data, and to make it possible for officers from control agencies to read the data. The biometric data can only be used to verify the authenticity of the document and the holder's identity through elements that are available for comparison in instances in which passports or travel documents are required by law. Interestingly the decree also states that: 'Biometric data collected for the issuing of the passport will not be stored in databases'"
BioBouncer Might Make Bars Safer / Wired News, 28 Feb 2006
http://www.wired.com/news/technology/0,70265-0.html?tw=rss.index
Rachel Metz
"BioBouncer is his solution. Its camera snaps customers entering clubs and bars, and facial recognition software compares them with stored images of previously identified troublemakers. The technology alerts club security to image matches, while innocent images are automatically flushed at the end of each night, Dussich said. Various clubs can share databases through a virtual private network, so belligerent drunks might find themselves unwelcome in all their neighborhood bars."
Rachel Metz
"BioBouncer is his solution. Its camera snaps customers entering clubs and bars, and facial recognition software compares them with stored images of previously identified troublemakers. The technology alerts club security to image matches, while innocent images are automatically flushed at the end of each night, Dussich said. Various clubs can share databases through a virtual private network, so belligerent drunks might find themselves unwelcome in all their neighborhood bars."
Secretary General's report under Artilce 52 ECHR on the question of secret detentiiona nd transport of detainees suspected of the terrorist acts,
notably by or at the instigatin of foreign agencies / council of Europe, 2006
PDF - http://www.coe.int/T/E/Com/Files/Events/2006-cia/SG-Inf-%282006%29.pdf
PDF - http://www.coe.int/T/E/Com/Files/Events/2006-cia/SG-Inf-%282006%29.pdf
Unfair dismissal boost for British expat workers / Expatica Spain, Feb 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnme
Andrew Dekany
Unfair dismissal boost for British expat workers In a landmark decision, the House of Lords has held that some of the hundreds of thousands of Britons who work overseas will be able to claim unfair dismissal in the UK where previously this would not have been possible."
Andrew Dekany
Unfair dismissal boost for British expat workers In a landmark decision, the House of Lords has held that some of the hundreds of thousands of Britons who work overseas will be able to claim unfair dismissal in the UK where previously this would not have been possible."
[Italy] Illegal immigration has Italy in its sights / Cafe Babel, 27 Feb 2006
http://www.cafebabel.com/en/article.asp?T=T&Id=6111
Lucia Pantella
"Italy's 7,600 kilometres of coastline officially became a European problem when Italy implemented the Schengen Convention in 1997. With an end to border checks between the 15 countries participating in the Schengen zone, an illegal immigrant arriving on the Sicilian coast has not just reached Italy but Europe."
Lucia Pantella
"Italy's 7,600 kilometres of coastline officially became a European problem when Italy implemented the Schengen Convention in 1997. With an end to border checks between the 15 countries participating in the Schengen zone, an illegal immigrant arriving on the Sicilian coast has not just reached Italy but Europe."
Here's something to chew on: ID in teeth / China Daily, 1 Mar 2006
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2006-03/01/content_524944.htm
"It is the ID card you will never lose or forget to carry with you unless your teeth fall out. Scientists have implanted an ID chip into a tooth to show how detailed personal information can be stored. The scientists say the tooth chip will be useful to forensic scientists trying to identify bodies after natural disasters and terrorist attacks with numerous victims. They say it will also have advantages over a simple identity card."
"It is the ID card you will never lose or forget to carry with you unless your teeth fall out. Scientists have implanted an ID chip into a tooth to show how detailed personal information can be stored. The scientists say the tooth chip will be useful to forensic scientists trying to identify bodies after natural disasters and terrorist attacks with numerous victims. They say it will also have advantages over a simple identity card."
Ankle bracelet can catch DWI offenders who cheat / St. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 22 Jan 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnmb
Kim Bell
"The device weighs less than a half-pound and is strapped to the offender's ankle to measure ethanol vapors as they leave the body. It takes hourly readings around the clock of the person's sweat to detect alcohol consumption."
Kim Bell
"The device weighs less than a half-pound and is strapped to the offender's ankle to measure ethanol vapors as they leave the body. It takes hourly readings around the clock of the person's sweat to detect alcohol consumption."
Community Corrections High–Tech Challenges and Solutions / Corrections, 30 Jan 2006
http://www.corrections.com/news/archives/results2_new.asp?ID=14806
Michell Gaseau
"How can officials determine which technology product would be right for the state? Corrections officials didn't have the time or the money to conduct a study of all the potential products, so they asked for help from the Rural Law Enforcement Technology Center in Kentucky. The result was an objective study that tested several different active and passive GPS systems in both urban and rural settings in New Mexico and a report that showed the performance of each."
Michell Gaseau
"How can officials determine which technology product would be right for the state? Corrections officials didn't have the time or the money to conduct a study of all the potential products, so they asked for help from the Rural Law Enforcement Technology Center in Kentucky. The result was an objective study that tested several different active and passive GPS systems in both urban and rural settings in New Mexico and a report that showed the performance of each."
AUTO Screener: An Intelligent Way of Assessing Offender Risk / Corrections, 20 Jan 2006
http://www.corrections.com/news/archives/results2_new.asp?ID=14809
Paul A. Quander, Jr.
"AUTO Screener is an 'intelligent' assessment tool that determines the appropriate level of supervision for offenders and recommends treatment and support services to meet the offender's needs. Based on extensive historical and social data entered in a structured interview with a CSO, the AUTO Screener generates a prescriptive supervision plan that contains support service recommendations.
Thomas Williams, Associate Director for Community Supervision Services, sums up the value of this new tool: "Through a combination of logic, rules, and formulas, AUTO Screener is able to derive a total score and a list of prescriptive treatments and supervision recommendations. Supervision officers can quickly determine the appropriate treatment and supervision level for the offender. Auto Screener allows quantitative intelligence to provide quality supervision and treatment services better, faster and more accurately. "
Paul A. Quander, Jr.
"AUTO Screener is an 'intelligent' assessment tool that determines the appropriate level of supervision for offenders and recommends treatment and support services to meet the offender's needs. Based on extensive historical and social data entered in a structured interview with a CSO, the AUTO Screener generates a prescriptive supervision plan that contains support service recommendations.
Thomas Williams, Associate Director for Community Supervision Services, sums up the value of this new tool: "Through a combination of logic, rules, and formulas, AUTO Screener is able to derive a total score and a list of prescriptive treatments and supervision recommendations. Supervision officers can quickly determine the appropriate treatment and supervision level for the offender. Auto Screener allows quantitative intelligence to provide quality supervision and treatment services better, faster and more accurately. "
Canada's Inadequate Response to Terrorism: The Need for Policy Reform / Fraser Institute , Feb 2006
PDF - http://www.fraserinstitute.ca/admin/books/files/Terrorism%20Response.pdf
Martin Collacott
"Canada is becoming a haven for terrorists because of lax immigration and refugee policies. Failure to exercise adequate control over the entry and the departure of non-Canadians on our territory has been a significant factor in making Canada a destination for terrorists. The latter have made our highly dysfunctional refugee determination system the channel most often used for gaining entry."
Martin Collacott
"Canada is becoming a haven for terrorists because of lax immigration and refugee policies. Failure to exercise adequate control over the entry and the departure of non-Canadians on our territory has been a significant factor in making Canada a destination for terrorists. The latter have made our highly dysfunctional refugee determination system the channel most often used for gaining entry."
Study calls for values oath for immigrants
http://digbig.com/4gnkw
Stewart Bell
"The government's failure to ensure that immigrants are fully committed to living according to Canada's liberal democratic values explains why some put overseas causes ahead of Canadian interests. 'Greater emphasis has been given in recent years to the rights of newcomers than to their obligations to Canada,' he writes. 'This has in all likelihood been a contributing factor in encouraging them to treat this country as a convenient and generous base from which to engage in or mount support for their favourite conflicts abroad.'"
Stewart Bell
"The government's failure to ensure that immigrants are fully committed to living according to Canada's liberal democratic values explains why some put overseas causes ahead of Canadian interests. 'Greater emphasis has been given in recent years to the rights of newcomers than to their obligations to Canada,' he writes. 'This has in all likelihood been a contributing factor in encouraging them to treat this country as a convenient and generous base from which to engage in or mount support for their favourite conflicts abroad.'"
Detention shake-up follows scandals / The Age, 2 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnkt
Jewel Topsfield,
"THE CONTROVERSIAL private operator of Australia's detention centres will not have its lucrative $90-million-a-year contract extended. GSL took over the running of Australia's detention centres in late 2003. The company has come under intense scrutiny, with critics claiming it has introduced a punitive prison regime to detention centres, including the use of solitary confinement."
Jewel Topsfield,
"THE CONTROVERSIAL private operator of Australia's detention centres will not have its lucrative $90-million-a-year contract extended. GSL took over the running of Australia's detention centres in late 2003. The company has come under intense scrutiny, with critics claiming it has introduced a punitive prison regime to detention centres, including the use of solitary confinement."
National Military Strategic Plan for the War on Terrorism. / National Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism
PDF - http://www.mipt.org/pdf/Military-Strategic-Plan-War-On-Terrorism-2005.pdf
This report "constitutes the comprehensive military plan to prosecute the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) for the Armed Forces of the United States. This document reflects the lessons of the first four years of the Global War on Terrorism, including the findings and recommendations of the 9-11 Commission and a rigorous examination within the Department of Defense (DoD), personally led by the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff."Source: Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Department of Defense
This report "constitutes the comprehensive military plan to prosecute the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) for the Armed Forces of the United States. This document reflects the lessons of the first four years of the Global War on Terrorism, including the findings and recommendations of the 9-11 Commission and a rigorous examination within the Department of Defense (DoD), personally led by the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff."Source: Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Department of Defense
[Namibia] Old Passports Phased Out / allAfrica.com, 1 Mar 2006
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Old Passports Phased Out:
Tanja Bause
"THE Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration has announced that the old, handwritten passports will be phased out from today. The old passports will not be renewed any more but replaced by machine-readable passports to curb fraud and forgery. The ministry has also invested in more computers and manpower, which it says will enable it to issue passports within 10 days after application from the beginning of April. People applying for passports should take note that they now have to bring along not only certified copies of the birth certificates, Namibian citizenship documents and identity documents, but also the originals. This is a further attempt to curb fraud and falsification of passports." [Snippet]
Tanja Bause
"THE Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration has announced that the old, handwritten passports will be phased out from today. The old passports will not be renewed any more but replaced by machine-readable passports to curb fraud and forgery. The ministry has also invested in more computers and manpower, which it says will enable it to issue passports within 10 days after application from the beginning of April. People applying for passports should take note that they now have to bring along not only certified copies of the birth certificates, Namibian citizenship documents and identity documents, but also the originals. This is a further attempt to curb fraud and falsification of passports." [Snippet]
Alleged secret detentions in Council of Europe member states / Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, 2006
Pdf -http://digbig.com/4gnks
Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights
Rapporteur: Mr Dick Marty" [Rendition]
Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights
Rapporteur: Mr Dick Marty" [Rendition]
EU seeks more curbs on foreign agents / International Herald Tribune, 2 ar 2006
http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/03/01/news/detain-5809463.php
Craig S Smith
"Davis released a report Wednesday documenting responses by the council's 46 member states to questions about whether any of their public officials had been involved in the extra-judicial transport or detention of terrorism suspects in a process known as 'rendition"
Craig S Smith
"Davis released a report Wednesday documenting responses by the council's 46 member states to questions about whether any of their public officials had been involved in the extra-judicial transport or detention of terrorism suspects in a process known as 'rendition"
Working with the voluntary sector/eGov monitor, 2 Mar 2006
http://www.egovmonitor.com/node/4899
"The importance of the voluntary sector to communities across the country should not be underestimated. People are engaging in voluntary action through an increasing range of means and the importance of the sector for delivering public services is set to increase. "
"The importance of the voluntary sector to communities across the country should not be underestimated. People are engaging in voluntary action through an increasing range of means and the importance of the sector for delivering public services is set to increase. "
[Netherlands] Is the Netherlands swinging to the right? / Aljazeera.Net, 1 Mar 2006
Aljazeera.Net - Is the Netherlands swinging to the right?: Ginko Kobayashi
"Both incidents led Dutch pundits to argue that multiculturalism had failed and tolerance, which the Netherlands had prided itself on, had been taken advantage of by an intolerant immigrant population."
"Both incidents led Dutch pundits to argue that multiculturalism had failed and tolerance, which the Netherlands had prided itself on, had been taken advantage of by an intolerant immigrant population."
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
[ New Zealand] Drug trafficking through NZ worries UN / Stuff NZ, 1 Mar 2006
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3588275a10,00.html
"Trafficking of ecstasy, cocaine and crystal methamphetamine through New Zealand is causing the United Nations serious concern, an annual report into narcotic use worldwide has revealed. The UN's International Narcotics Control Board 2005 report says it appears New Zealand is being increasingly used as a major transit area for drugs, especially cocaine, destined for Australia and the United States. In 2004, over 18kg of cocaine were seized here compared with only 7kg in 2003. Most of the cocaine originated in Brazil or Chile and was destined for Australia. The report also says Oceania may be emerging as a transit area for consignments of crystal amphetamine, commonly called 'P' or 'ice', and that trafficking and abuse of ecstasy are significant problems in New Zealand and Australia. "
"Trafficking of ecstasy, cocaine and crystal methamphetamine through New Zealand is causing the United Nations serious concern, an annual report into narcotic use worldwide has revealed. The UN's International Narcotics Control Board 2005 report says it appears New Zealand is being increasingly used as a major transit area for drugs, especially cocaine, destined for Australia and the United States. In 2004, over 18kg of cocaine were seized here compared with only 7kg in 2003. Most of the cocaine originated in Brazil or Chile and was destined for Australia. The report also says Oceania may be emerging as a transit area for consignments of crystal amphetamine, commonly called 'P' or 'ice', and that trafficking and abuse of ecstasy are significant problems in New Zealand and Australia. "
Making data protection simpler: advice for professionals / Good Practice Notes, ICO, 2006
PDF - http://digbig.com/4gncg
"This good practice note aims to inform organisations and practitioners about some of the data protection issues that arise in relation to the information about individuals that they record in their professional opinions. The information in this note may also be of interest to individuals."
"This good practice note aims to inform organisations and practitioners about some of the data protection issues that arise in relation to the information about individuals that they record in their professional opinions. The information in this note may also be of interest to individuals."
Edinburgh - Jail chiefs say classes can cut re-offending / Scotsman, 1 Mar 2006
http://news.scotsman.com/edinburgh.cfm?id=312052006
"EDINBURGH prison bosses claim they've found the answer for cutting re-offending rates - classes in IT, English, and business studies. The Scottish Executive has called on prisons to offer more courses to inmates after impressive figures from Saughton prison showed that the number of prisoners gaining qualifications far exceeded targets set by ministers to work towards 400 qualifications in 12 months. "
"EDINBURGH prison bosses claim they've found the answer for cutting re-offending rates - classes in IT, English, and business studies. The Scottish Executive has called on prisons to offer more courses to inmates after impressive figures from Saughton prison showed that the number of prisoners gaining qualifications far exceeded targets set by ministers to work towards 400 qualifications in 12 months. "
Increased sentences for people who offend while out on bail / Scotsman, 1 Mar 2006
http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=310532006
Shan Ross
"SUSPECTED sex offenders who commit crimes while on bail face up to five extra years on top of their prison sentence, as part of a hard-hitting reform of Scotland's courts. Proposals unveiled follow public disquiet about the number of crimes being committed by people awaiting trial. The measures outlined in the Summary Justice Reform Bill will see an increase in the sentence for breaking bail conditions in a solemn case rise from two years to five years. Those breaching summary court orders will now face a one-year sentence, instead of the current three months. "
Shan Ross
"SUSPECTED sex offenders who commit crimes while on bail face up to five extra years on top of their prison sentence, as part of a hard-hitting reform of Scotland's courts. Proposals unveiled follow public disquiet about the number of crimes being committed by people awaiting trial. The measures outlined in the Summary Justice Reform Bill will see an increase in the sentence for breaking bail conditions in a solemn case rise from two years to five years. Those breaching summary court orders will now face a one-year sentence, instead of the current three months. "
One third of rank-and-file officers think police provide a poor service / Scotsman, 28 Feb 2006
http://news.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=304782006
MICHAEL HOWIE
"A THIRD of police officers in Scotland think they are providing a 'poor' or 'very poor' service, a new survey has revealed. The poll of rank-and-file officers found that 34.4 per cent had a negative view of the role they were performing, while 39.5 per cent thought they were doing only an 'average' job. The Scottish Police Federation (SPF), which carried out the research, blamed under-staffing for the alarming results. They say chief constables are overloading backroom positions at the expense of vital 'frontline' staff. "
MICHAEL HOWIE
"A THIRD of police officers in Scotland think they are providing a 'poor' or 'very poor' service, a new survey has revealed. The poll of rank-and-file officers found that 34.4 per cent had a negative view of the role they were performing, while 39.5 per cent thought they were doing only an 'average' job. The Scottish Police Federation (SPF), which carried out the research, blamed under-staffing for the alarming results. They say chief constables are overloading backroom positions at the expense of vital 'frontline' staff. "
"Falling Short of the Mark: An International Study on the Treatment of Human Trafficking Victims" / The Future Group, 2006
PDF - http://digbig.com/3ndh
"This study concludes that Australia, Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden and the United States are generally complying with their international obligations under the U.N. Trafficking Protocol related to the protection of victims of human trafficking. However, the United Kingdom has failed to meet these international standards and is currently reviewing its policy. Canada has systematically failed to comply with these international obligations and its record of dealing with trafficking victims is an international embarrassment. "
"This study concludes that Australia, Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden and the United States are generally complying with their international obligations under the U.N. Trafficking Protocol related to the protection of victims of human trafficking. However, the United Kingdom has failed to meet these international standards and is currently reviewing its policy. Canada has systematically failed to comply with these international obligations and its record of dealing with trafficking victims is an international embarrassment. "
Avian flu - Introduction/ NHS Direct, 2006
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/en.aspx?printPage=1&articleId=1565
Avian - (bird flu) described, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, prevention.
Avian - (bird flu) described, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, prevention.
Fiber optics may beat hackers / Monsters & Critics, 27 Feb 2006
http://digbig.com/4gmxr
Stokely Baksh
"Hackers should take note that researchers have successfully completed a new technique that could nab eavesdroppers in the future. Published in the Feb. 24 issue of 'Physical Review Letters,' their study looked at manipulating the intensity of photons in order to create 'decoys' to catch eavesdroppers.
Researchers also expanded the encryption key rate and distance for the technique, using a commercial device."
Stokely Baksh
"Hackers should take note that researchers have successfully completed a new technique that could nab eavesdroppers in the future. Published in the Feb. 24 issue of 'Physical Review Letters,' their study looked at manipulating the intensity of photons in order to create 'decoys' to catch eavesdroppers.
Researchers also expanded the encryption key rate and distance for the technique, using a commercial device."
UK introduces visas for Malawians / IOL, 1 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnak
Malawians need visas to visit Britain from Wednesday, the government said. Home Office minister Tony McNulty said visas are being introduced because of growing abuse of the asylum system by Malawi nationals and other Africans using Malawi passports. "Visas are an important tool in effective border control and our visa policy is kept under constant review to ensure that requirements remain proportionate and are responsive to changing situations," McNulty said. Malawi nationals will require visas to visit or transit Britain from Wednesday, although there will be a period of grace for those who have already made travel plans. The number of asylum applications from Malawi nationals has been growing - from 45 in 2001 to 170 in 2004 - and the government says there has been an increasing number of immigration offences among Malawians, including overstaying leave to remain in Britain."
Malawians need visas to visit Britain from Wednesday, the government said. Home Office minister Tony McNulty said visas are being introduced because of growing abuse of the asylum system by Malawi nationals and other Africans using Malawi passports. "Visas are an important tool in effective border control and our visa policy is kept under constant review to ensure that requirements remain proportionate and are responsive to changing situations," McNulty said. Malawi nationals will require visas to visit or transit Britain from Wednesday, although there will be a period of grace for those who have already made travel plans. The number of asylum applications from Malawi nationals has been growing - from 45 in 2001 to 170 in 2004 - and the government says there has been an increasing number of immigration offences among Malawians, including overstaying leave to remain in Britain."
Britain to lift visa requirement for Croatian citizens / Makfax, 1 Mar 2006
http://digbig.com/4gnag
"Great Britain will revoke visa requirements for citizens of Croatia as of 22 March, Croatian media cited the UK Ambassador Sir John Ramsden as saying. According to him, Home Secretary Minister Charles Clark has already notified the Parliament about the move, which is a standard practice in such procedures. UK introduced visa regime for Croatia in 1999. Three years ago, official London lifted the requirement for transit visas to Croatians who used British airports when traveling to third countries. [Snippet]"
"Great Britain will revoke visa requirements for citizens of Croatia as of 22 March, Croatian media cited the UK Ambassador Sir John Ramsden as saying. According to him, Home Secretary Minister Charles Clark has already notified the Parliament about the move, which is a standard practice in such procedures. UK introduced visa regime for Croatia in 1999. Three years ago, official London lifted the requirement for transit visas to Croatians who used British airports when traveling to third countries. [Snippet]"
The Internet jihad / Editorials/Op-Ed�-�The Washington Times, 28 Feb 2006
http://www.washingtontimes.com/op-ed/20060227-093415-6488r.htm
"A troubling video of an insurgent sniper in Iraq known only as 'Juba' is spreading across the Internet. As National Public Radio describes it, in the professional-quality video, 'Juba' is quiet, efficient and ruthless as he trains his sights on American soldiers and pulls the trigger. Jihadist messages accompany the grisly footage -- in English. The video's colloquial American vernacular strongly suggests the video was either made in the United States or by people deeply familiar with this country -- and skilled in the use of the latest technologies. "
"A troubling video of an insurgent sniper in Iraq known only as 'Juba' is spreading across the Internet. As National Public Radio describes it, in the professional-quality video, 'Juba' is quiet, efficient and ruthless as he trains his sights on American soldiers and pulls the trigger. Jihadist messages accompany the grisly footage -- in English. The video's colloquial American vernacular strongly suggests the video was either made in the United States or by people deeply familiar with this country -- and skilled in the use of the latest technologies. "
[Pakistan] No end to violence against women / Daily Times, 1 March 2006
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2006\03\01\story_1-3-2006_pg7_8
Aayan Ali
"There seems to be no end to incidents of violence against women in Pakistan, gender abuse statistics of January 2006 suggest. At least 126 cases of violence against women were reported in the national press in January in which 86 women were killed."
Aayan Ali
"There seems to be no end to incidents of violence against women in Pakistan, gender abuse statistics of January 2006 suggest. At least 126 cases of violence against women were reported in the national press in January in which 86 women were killed."
Closing the Gap, Combating the causes of child poverty in London / 27 Feb 2006
PDF - http://digbig.com/4gmwk
Association of London Government; Mayor of London ; End Child Poverty campaign
"The Closing the Gap report highlights five key policy areas that require urgent action in order to combat the capital's child poverty problem;
� increasing employment and making work pay
� improving education and childcare
� improving housing
� reducing financial exclusion
� supporting vulnerable children"
Association of London Government; Mayor of London ; End Child Poverty campaign
"The Closing the Gap report highlights five key policy areas that require urgent action in order to combat the capital's child poverty problem;
� increasing employment and making work pay
� improving education and childcare
� improving housing
� reducing financial exclusion
� supporting vulnerable children"
[Australia - victoria] Crime squads to go as police target Mr Bigs / The Age, 28 Feb 2006
http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2006/02/28/1141095741314.html?from=rss
John Silvester
"It is believed the major fraud group will be cut and large companies will be encouraged to employ private forensic accountants to find weaknesses in their internal audit systems. Under the new structure, detectives will concentrate on organised crime, habitual criminals and serial offenders. The review found that many complex fraud investigations were taking years to complete. It suggested companies should take greater responsibility for internal frauds."
John Silvester
"It is believed the major fraud group will be cut and large companies will be encouraged to employ private forensic accountants to find weaknesses in their internal audit systems. Under the new structure, detectives will concentrate on organised crime, habitual criminals and serial offenders. The review found that many complex fraud investigations were taking years to complete. It suggested companies should take greater responsibility for internal frauds."
Al-Qaeda bankrolled Bali attacks, say police / Sydney Morning Herald, 1 Mar 2006
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2006/02/28/1141095740967.html?from=rss
Mark Forbes
"AL-QAEDA funded the bombings in Bali in October and in 2002, the blast outside the Marriott Hotel in Jakarta in 2003 and the attack on the Australian embassy in Jakarta in 2004, Indonesian police say. Tens of thousands of dollars were sent by courier from al-Qaeda leaders in Afghanistan and Pakistan to fund the wave of attacks, one of Indonesia's most senior counter-terrorism officers"
Mark Forbes
"AL-QAEDA funded the bombings in Bali in October and in 2002, the blast outside the Marriott Hotel in Jakarta in 2003 and the attack on the Australian embassy in Jakarta in 2004, Indonesian police say. Tens of thousands of dollars were sent by courier from al-Qaeda leaders in Afghanistan and Pakistan to fund the wave of attacks, one of Indonesia's most senior counter-terrorism officers"
[Pakistan] No end to violence against women / Daily Times, 1 March 2006
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2006\03\01\story_1-3-2006_pg7_8
Aayan Ali
"There seems to be no end to incidents of violence against women in Pakistan, gender abuse statistics of January 2006 suggest. At least 126 cases of violence against women were reported in the national press in January in which 86 women were killed."
Aayan Ali
"There seems to be no end to incidents of violence against women in Pakistan, gender abuse statistics of January 2006 suggest. At least 126 cases of violence against women were reported in the national press in January in which 86 women were killed."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)