RT Article
T1 International weapons trafficking from the United States of America: a crime script analysis of the means of transportation
JF Global crime
VO 23
IS 3
SP 284
OP 305
A1 Langlois, Fiona
A2 Rhumorbarbe, Damien
A2 Werner, Denis
A2 Florquin, Nicolas
A2 Caneppele, Stefano
A2 Rossy, Quentin
LA English
YR 2022
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/183702412X
AB Using a crime script analysis, this research aims to document how smugglers operate when they traffic arms from the US to foreign countries. Our study is based on an analysis of 66 cases that have been judged by US courts (2008-2017). The criminal activities involved are detailed in a series of distinct scenes, according to Cornish’s theory. Five scripts have been developed, based on the means of transport used by the traffickers: road transport, commercial airlines, postal services, freight transport and crossing the border on foot. Results suggest that most criminals prefer to operate according to an established modus operandi. This commonality suggests that the potential exists for the professionalisation of this criminal activity. Indeed, offenders are likely to maintain it to reduce effort and risk. Complementary sources of information would help to enrich the approach proposed in this study and to address the challenges posed by complex cases.
K1 Arms trafficking
K1 contraband
K1 illicit trade
K1 Organised Crime
K1 Transnational Crime
DO 10.1080/17440572.2022.2067847