Perspectives on Police Specialization in Art Theft Investigations

Abstract

Abstract The concept of specialization is accepted in many fields of policing, yet most national law enforcement authorities do not regard art and cultural heritage crime as one deserving of specialist attention. Drawing on interviews with Norwegian and international stakeholders, the analysis identifies what separates art theft investigations from other investigations and when specialist knowledge becomes necessary. Findings reveal compelling arguments for specialization and establishing dedicated art crime units. Respondents voiced clear concerns regarding the level of prioritization and knowledge of art theft in the police; yet, the analysis cannot conclude that art theft investigations in Norway have necessarily suffered from an absence of specialization. To justify the establishment of a dedicated unit, first there is a need to develop consistent crime recording practices, create a national database for stolen or missing art and conduct comprehensive and systematic research to determine what characterizes the crimes and the current criminal justice response.