Absolutely, BeginnersLuck..
There has been a vast improvement in LEAs taking advantage of the many State and Federal resources available upon request, imo. In the past, imo, egos got in the way in many of the missing person's cases. Investigations such as the Mickey Shunick(LA-2012), and the recent rescue of Hannah Anderson(CA/Idaho) are two excellent examples of investigations where all available resources were utilized by investigators..
One Example of the efforts by the FBI to inform and encourage State & Local LEAs to utilize all available resources: 2005 symposium-
http://www.fbi.gov/stats-services/publications/serial-murder
The FBI is committed to contributing to the understanding of these horrific acts. The FBI’s National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime stands ready to assist our state, local, and international partners. We believe the best way to combat any threat — be it terrorism, gang violence, or serial murder — is to combine our knowledge and resources with those of our partners, and to work as a team. I am grateful for the partnerships that helped spur this symposium, and for the partnerships that were formed as a result.
Additionally, the lack of communication between law enforcement agencies and differing records management systems impede the linkage of cases to a common offender.
Attendees stressed the importance of law enforcement networking with other investigative agencies and cited the National Law Enforcement Teletype System (NLETS) messages, ViCAP Alerts, and the Law Enforcement Online (LEO) website as alternative mechanisms for sharing information to help determine other linked cases. The use of the FBI’s NCAVC, both the Behavioral Analysis Units and the Violent Criminal Apprehension Program, in linking potential cases was also encouraged.
Leadership
High profile investigations present a multitude of leadership challenges for law enforcement, from investigators to police executives. Law enforcement personnel may face external pressures from political entities, victims’ families, and the media.
• Systems similar to the FBI’s Rapid Start computerized case management system should be utilized, to effectively organize and collate lead information.