ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the criminal use of firearms and ammunition, the role they play within criminal justice systems and the relevant responses that seek to control their illicit use on both national and international scales. It introduces the diverse scope of firearm-related offences and examines the response from all sectors of the criminal justice system including the role of procedural law, law enforcement, forensic science, forensic-led investigation and the prosecution and sentencing of firearm-related crime in court. This chapter aims to demonstrate and understand the challenges and complexity that currently exist in the context of fighting firearm-related crime both within and across country borders. In doing so, it seeks to highlight and justify the need for culture change in criminal justice systems across the globe. To more effectively and efficiently detect, investigate and prosecute all forms of firearm-related crime, we need to move towards more holistic and co-operative processes, developing improved communication methods between criminal justice sectors and enhancing individuals’ knowledge and skillsets to maximise the value and use of modern technology. The contribution and role of probation and rehabilitation services are therefore beyond the scope of this chapter.
