Investigating Terrorism: Current Political, Legal and Psychological Issues

Investigating Terrorism takes a look behind the closed doors of terrorist cases, and at the entire judicial process of these cases from heated debates in both Houses of Parliament, through arrest, prosecution and imprisonment. In doing so, it confronts many of the crucial political, enforcement, legal and psychological issues currently influencing major decision makers in this arena. Specialist contributors discuss recently–released research into the effectiveness of front–line counter terrorism officers in their dealings with terrorist suspects, including the findings from a study commissioned by New Scotland Yard into the effectiveness of police interviews with terrorist suspects. Also included are strategic reviews of many of the major legislative changes and subsequent high profile legal challenges that have repeatedly undermined government policy. Contributors provide a clear psychological understanding of aspects of terrorist behaviour, including insights into what drives individuals to become suicide bombers.   Contributions come from both senior police officers and psychologists.  Contributors Lord Carlile, the former HMG’s Independent Reviewer of Terrorist legislation, and Peter Clarke, the recently retired Head of Terrorist Investigations for the UK, combine academic credentials and understanding with substantial policy or practitioner experience. This combination of perspectives ensures a holistic and richly informed view of the subject and issues.

John Pearse is Vice President of the Paul Ekman Group and the Managing Director of Forensic Navigation Services Ltd, an independent company that combines forensic consultancy and investigation with psychological training and empirical research. He has provided counter–terrorist advice and training around the world and has designed and delivered a number of acclaimed international multi–agency counter terrorism seminars. John has been researching the area of interviewing and interrogation and terrorist related issues since 1991, and is a visiting lecturer at a number of colleges within the University of London.