The text examines problems that can confront police commanders who do not guard against runaway intelligence, infringements on privacy, and overzealous collection habits. It explains the need for intelligence in police services and details the necessary elements of file guidelines. Examples of forms and control documents for use in central files are presented. A suggested city ordinance defines the need for intelligence, authorizes the existence of an intelligence unit, and lays out explicit regulations for handling information, setting information standards, and protecting the identification of individuals. The final section presents a multiple-question examination to help police commanders determine their intelligence units' strengths and weaknesses. A total of 17 references are supplied. (Author abstract modified)