From cooperation agreemente to whistleblower: new trends in combating complex crimes

Abstract

This article examines cooperation agreement and whistleblower mechanisms as relevant tools in combating crime in modern societies. It delves into the criminological origins of theories explaining criminal phenomena to discuss how a paradigm shift in crime control has led to the evolution of investigative methods within the context of Economic Criminal Law. Consequently, there has been an increasingly frequent implementation of consensual mechanisms in criminal justice, namely plea bargaining and the whistleblower role. Drawing a parallel between these two institutions highlights the need to enhance incentives for bona fide informants, aiming to reconcile efficiency in criminal prosecution with the consolidation of an ethical culture that respects legality, both in the public and private domains.