POLICE INTELLIGENCE AS A TOOL FOR THE PREVENTION OF ORGANIZED CRIME

Abstract

Organized crime constitutes a complex phenomenon, characterized by structured, collective action oriented toward specific objectives, which makes its conceptual delimitation difficult and challenges state responses. The absence of a consensual scientific definition, especially within the field of criminal dogmatics, has historically contributed to the construction of stereotyped perceptions of this form of criminality, often based on popular imagery and imprecise discourses. In this context, confronting organized crime requires instruments capable of understanding its dynamics, identifying its structures, and anticipating its movements. Police Intelligence emerges as a central element in this process, as it enables the systematic production of knowledge aimed at prevention, decision-making support, and the protection of public order. This article aims to discuss Police Intelligence as an instrument for the prevention of organized crime, highlighting its conceptual, normative, and operational relevance. Based on a bibliographic and documentary review, grounded in classical authors on organized crime and in norms governing public security intelligence activity in Brazil, the study seeks to demonstrate how intelligence knowledge production contributes to threat identification, understanding of criminal organizations, and the strengthening of state preventive actions.