Disengagement from involvement in organised crime: Processes and risks

This paper provides insight into the processes and risks associated with disengaging from involvement in organised crime. It seeks to offer an understanding of what membership of an organised crime group entails, the motivations for leaving, processes of disengagement and potential repercussions that may be encountered as a result. Suggestions for promoting disengagement are also canvassed. Given the expansive nature of organised crime that takes place in Australia and globally, the different contexts of membership and personal involvement, and the cultural and social factors involved, disengagement is clearly complex and difficult to manage. Improved understanding of the processes and risks will enable policymakers to assist in the disruption of organised crime groups through the implementation of strategies designed to facilitate easy and effective disengagement from serious criminal activity.