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• Assessing Homeland Security Risks: A Comparative Risk Assessment of 10 Hazards

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  "The National Academy of Sciences recommended that the Department of Homeland Security use methods of qualitative comparative risk assessment as part of its approach to strategic planning. To provide insight into how this can be done, this paper examines a set of ten homeland security risks-- including natural disasters, terrorist events, and major accidents-- in a systematic fashion. These hazards were described in terms of the annualized risk to the United States as a whole using open-source data and a standardized set of attributes. This assessment can be useful on its own, providing a baseline of knowledge about these homeland security risks and a source of data for subsequent risk management and comparative risk assessment studies. Additionally, this assessment can help identify what is known about the homeland security risk generally-- the availability of data on homeland security risks and the uncertainty of the risks as they vary by hazard and attribute."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Lundberg, Russell; Willis, Henry H.

  2015-12
• Improving Access to Military Aircraft During Civilian Wildfires

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  From the thesis abstract: "Wildfires are a growing problem in the United States, and military aircraft are increasingly mobilized in support of civilian wildfire suppression efforts. The photogenic qualities of aircraft distributing a trail of red slurry over a wildfire increase the public's expectation of fire suppression from the air. The problem is that Department of Defense (DOD) aircraft are not dispatched to civilian wildfires in a timely manner, resulting in lives lost, property destroyed, and critical infrastructure damaged. The research question considered by this thesis is, 'What improvements can be implemented to existing local, state, and federal protocols to provide a more timely response to civilian wildfires by DOD aircraft?' The current system is complicated and confusing, involving federal laws, such as the Economy and Stafford acts; DOD doctrine and instruction, such as Defense Support to (of) Civil Authorities and Immediate Response Authority; and civilian agencies, such as the National Interagency Fire Center with its 'Military Use Handbook' in the existing process to dispatch military aircraft to civilian wildfires. The results of the study recommend that (1) DOD aircraft be more closely coordinated with civilian aircraft via the IRA [Immediate Response Authority] for responding to civilian wildfires, and that (2) the Economy and Stafford acts be modified to improve the efficiency with which military aircraft respond to civilian wildfires."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Dubay, Steve E.

  2015-12
• Viewpoints in Homeland Defense and Security: Challenges and Gains in Cybersecurity [video]

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  From the Video Description: "Cybersecurity is now at the forefront of Homeland Security threats. Antonio Scurlock, (Senior Cybersecurity Strategist Enhance Shared Situational Awareness (ESSA) Portfolio Lead Office of Strategy, Policy, & Plans National Protection and Programs Directorate) talks about the challenges and gains made in cybersecurity and cybersecurity programs over the years." The duration of the video is 18 minutes and 8 seconds.

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  2015-12-01
• Intelligence-Driven Border Security: A Promethean View of U.S. Border Patrol Intelligence Operations

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  From the thesis abstract: "Transnational criminal networks will continue to evolve. The United States Border Patrol's (USBP) intelligence-driven planning, resourcing, and operations need to be responsive to the constant evolution in adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures. To successfully standardize and institutionalize intelligence processes, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted on the current USBP intelligence architecture and intelligence processes. The research compared and contrasted the current Border Patrol intelligence mission with best practices, lessons learned, shared missions, and constraints within the Intelligence Community. The research focused on the synthesis of an intelligence-driven, law enforcement culture, one that will increase situational awareness and understanding of the homeland security ecosystem through efficient planning, collections, exploitation, processing, analysis, production, and dissemination of intelligence-related information to all components of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This study examines literature from the DHS strategic documents, Department of Defense intelligence doctrine, Government Accountability Office reports, internal USBP intelligence documents, and subject-matter expert perspectives. This research leads USBP to consider instituting an effective organizational architecture that supports the evolutionary development of its intelligence-driven, border security operations and intelligence-driven, decision-making process. The thesis concludes that the synergy between law enforcement culture and intelligence-driven operations is difficult to achieve, yet once established, it is very powerful, irreplaceable, highly effective, and self-sustainable. Evidence demonstrates that in order to institute a culture of an intelligence-driven border security agency, a more robust approach needs to be standardized to sustain the flexibility and adaptability the USBP requires to address future threats in the twenty-first century."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Chavez, Gloria I.

  2015-12
• Beating the Red Gold Rush: Copper Theft and Homeland Security

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  From the thesis abstract: "This thesis is a comparative case study comparing and contrasting the efforts of three countries (United Kingdom, France, Italy) in their fight to reduce copper wire theft incidents within their nations. The ultimate goal of the research is to highlight the significant threat posed to critical infrastructure from copper thieves and to offer best practice recommendations to policymakers within the United States in response, based on the experiences of the three targeted nations. An analysis of the data reveals that the United Kingdom has had the most success in the reduction of reported copper wire theft incidents primarily due to its multi-faceted approach to the problem, which includes heavy regulation of the scrap recycling industry, centralized law enforcement operations, and enhanced criminal statutes."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Cook, James A.

  2015-12
• Crime-Terrorism Nexus, and the Threat to U.S. Homeland Security

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  From the thesis abstract: "Since 2001, violent sub-national groups with disparate ideologies and motivations have been working together to further their objectives. They are collaborating, sharing each other's tactics, and learning from one another's successes and failures. What is the background or historical context of the crime-terror nexus, and what challenges does it present to U.S. homeland security practitioners? This thesis uses a case study approach to examine the history of the nexus between transnational criminal organizations and foreign terrorist organizations. The three case studies are then used as the data for the analysis chapter, which shows the historical and emerging relationships between states and the three violent sub-national groups. The three case studies suggest the activities of these violent sub-national groups are protean in nature; they are best described by analysts as falling into the 'gray area phenomenon.' The three case studies, the analysis, and conclusion of this thesis support the recommendation that more effort needs to be placed on intelligence collection, especially at the domestic and local levels."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Schofield, Robert Michael

  2015-12
• Ideal Police Oversight and Review: The Next Piece of the Community Policing Puzzle

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  From the thesis abstract: "There has been independent oversight of law enforcement complaints for over a hundred years in the United States, but recent cases of perceived excessive use of force by law enforcement officers have thrust independent oversight into the national forefront. This thesis set out to discover frameworks, operation methods, and responsibilities of independent oversight of cases involving police excessive use of force by researching the current structures and practices of oversight bodies across America--how they differ from each other, how they are successful--and determining whether there should be a national standard. This research includes oversight boards from small, medium, and large American municipalities with law enforcement agencies whose ethnic diversity is not reflective of their communities. Through the use of a request for information, 12 independent oversight boards were examined. The research suggests there is no consistency across independent oversight boards, no standard for independent oversight board frameworks, and no tracking of their efficiency toward organizational or academically suggested goals. Nor is there a central repository where lessons learned and best practices can be catalogued and distributed. This thesis provides recommendations for future research on independent oversight boards."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Sajor, Antonio, Jr.

  2015-12
• What's In a Name: A Comparative Analysis of the United States' REAL ID Act and The United Kingdom's National Identity Scheme

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  From the thesis abstract: "Since September 11, 2001, many governments have considered developing national identity management systems. Beyond identification, politicians and proponents of these systems have touted such system benefits as combating terrorism, preventing identity theft, facilitating travel, and combating illegal work and benefit fraud. For these reasons, the United States and United Kingdom both considered variations of these systems. While the United Kingdom passed the Identity Cards Act of 2006 and spent several years developing a national identity management system before ultimately scrapping the scheme in 2010, the United States sought to secure further the existing means of identification--driver's licenses and identity cards--through the passage of the REAL ID Act. Both measures met with widespread resistance. What does an examination of resistance to nationwide identity management schemes in the United States and United Kingdom reveal about the nature of national identity management systems and identity cards, and what does this resistance tell policymakers and security officials who promote such schemes? Through a comparative analysis of the REAL ID Act implementation and the National Identity Scheme, this thesis shows that Anglophone, common-law nations experience the same inhibiting factors, whether or not they attempt to implement a national identity management system or an identity card on a national scale."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Jefferson, Karrie Ann

  2015-12
• What Can History Teach Us? A Comparative Historical Analysis on the Reserve Officer Training Corps and the Department of Homeland Security

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  From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines an institution that has been educating, providing leadership training and commissioning the vast majority of U.S. military officers for nearly 100 years, the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC). This program was formed and shaped over nearly a century through conflict, military necessity, and political maneuvering. Through the incorporation of a historical comparative lens, this program's mechanistic and temporal conditions are captured to provide lessons learned for other entities searching for an educational identity. One such organization that is struggling to establish a preparatory program and identity is the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). When looking at the two case studies side by side, it is easy to see that they do indeed share commonalities in organizational structure, need, and mission. The findings from this thesis offer evidence that the DHS is growing in educational parallel to ROTC, while suffering from many of the same growing pains the Department of Defense did while trying to establish its educational roots. This thesis tracks conditions that shaped the ROTC we know today, while simultaneously highlighting the deficiencies the DHS is facing. It also lays the path for future work that could call for a similar analog as the ROTC for the DHS."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Banker, Thomas A.

  2015-12
• Considerations for Domestic Law Enforcement Implementation of a UAS Program in the Proposed FAA Regulatory Environment of Integration into the National Airspace System

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  From the thesis abstract: "This thesis identifies the potential future mission profile of an unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) program within a domestic law enforcement agency after implementation of UAS regulations, a task currently in progress by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). First, the author reviews current academic literature and provides analysis on key policy issues of safety, the transfer of risk, and constitutional rights. Then, the author consults the knowledge and experience of individuals responsible for the integration architecture of UAS through an IRB [Institutional Review Board]-approved online survey. The survey of these subject matter experts using the Delphi method resulted in the following recommendations: (1) early public engagement and transparency for intended UAS use by law enforcement; (2) a policy framework that addresses safe operation and privacy; (3) further investment in 'sense and avoid' technology; (4) the development of a comprehensive UAS training program. This academically rigorous consultation provides law enforcement executives and elected officials the policy implications of initiating a new UAS program and the groundwork to assess existing UAS programs."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  McMinn, Keith Andrew

  2015-12
• Advance of the Black Flags: Symbolism, Social Identity, and Psychological Operations in Violent Conflict

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  From the thesis abstract: "The United States is in an ideological war with violent extremists in the realm of mass communication, but the nature of this conflict is not well understood. This thesis reviewed literature concerning communication principles and the psychology of symbolism, then used qualitative analysis to investigate strategic communication samples to understand how media was used to construct group identity, influence attitudes, and challenge adversaries. Themes critical to narrative construction were identified, as were communication techniques that place emphasis on key ideas in music and film. The roles of symbolism, rituals, and music in human behavior were further researched. This research was then applied to the Islamic State's use of media to influence attitudes and inspire behavior. The ultimate recommendation suggests that the United States approach this conflict as a true war by asserting a communication strategy designed to disrupt violent, exclusionary ideologies."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Milburn, Christopher D.

  2015-12
• Combining Facial Recognition, Automatic License Plate Readers and Closed-Circuit Television to Create an Interstate Identification System for Wanted Subjects

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  From the thesis abstract: "Advancing technology in the field of facial recognition systems (FRS), closed-circuit television (CCTV) and automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) could make it possible to create a system capable of identifying suspected terrorists, current terrorist watch list suspects, other wanted criminals, and missing persons. This research examines the convergence of these technologies to design an efficient system and improve the speed and accuracy of potential suspect identification. To do so, the thesis examines all systems' basic capabilities, privacy issues or concerns, best practices, possible areas for improvement, and policy considerations. Since the tragedies of September 11, 2001, a large volume of literature related to FRS, ALPR, and CCTV systems has been created. The intent of this thesis is to serve as catalyst for a new security system designed to locate, identify, and apprehend known terrorist watch list suspects and other wanted persons who are traversing the interstate systems in the United States. The goal is to provide another layer of protection and create a deterrent to both criminal and terrorist activity, providing a safer environment for all U.S. citizens. Furthermore, this capability can help locate Amber Alert and Silver Alert subjects."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Thomas, Michael J.

  2015-12
• Autonomous and Connected Vehicles: A Law Enforcement Primer

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  From the thesis abstract: "The introduction of autonomous and connected vehicle technologies will have a significant impact on ground transportation systems in the United States. Law enforcement agencies, legislative bodies, judiciary members, and regulatory bodies across the country will have to make changes in their operational, legislative, and regulatory processes to respond to incidents or events involving these technologies to ensure public safety mandates are satisfied. This thesis examined both technologies to gain an understanding of how they function and to identify by predictive analysis the emerging issues that will impact homeland security, as these systems could potentially be used for nefarious purposes. Securing the technology from cyber intrusion will be of paramount concern to manufacturers and consumers. An examination of a cyber security project to protect police vehicle fleets, undertaken by the Virginia State Police and University of Virginia, will highlight vulnerabilities and offer relevant recommendations to safeguard those assets. This thesis is intended to serve as a primer for law enforcement managers to develop a baseline understanding of autonomous and connected vehicle technology, while stimulating a re-examination of law enforcement roles and responsibilities that will require change as these technologies emerge."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Davis, Jerry L.

  2015-12
• Would the U.S. Benefit From a Unified National Strategy to Combat Violent Salafi Jihadism?

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  From the thesis abstract: "Violent Salafi jihadism, or VSJ, motivated the September 11 hijackers, but it is poorly understood by homeland security practitioners and not addressed in U.S. national strategies. This thesis argues that using precise language to define this threat is necessary to achieve a common understanding of the VSJ movement and posits that, based on the resources focused on this threat for the past 14 years, a unified national strategy is warranted. The use of the generic term terrorism has resulted in a vast array of counterterrorism 'experts,' many of whom have little or no understanding of VSJ. An unintended consequence of conflating VSJ with motivation behind other Muslim groups using terrorist tactics is that it feeds the false narrative that VSJ represents Islam. Muslims in Asia and Africa are by far more often victimized by VSJ than is the far enemy in Europe and the United States. This thesis argues that imprecise language referencing the threat from VSJ has led to diluted and sometimes counterproductive, counterterrorism strategies. It also argues that the United States should disaggregate terrorist groups that do not directly threaten the United States and, instead, focus on VSJ with unity of effort across the federal government."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Palmieri, Lisa M.

  2015-12
• Applying Systems Thinking to Law Enforcement Safety: Recommendation for a Comprehensive Safety Management Framework

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  From the thesis abstract: "Each year, approximately 100,000 police officers experience work-related occupational injuries, and more than 100 are killed on the job, in training accidents, routine operations, and emergency response. Many of these injuries and deaths are considered preventable. Although the law enforcement profession has recently begun to place an emphasis on safety, with the goal of reducing injuries and fatalities, no systematic or comprehensive approach to safety management exists to oversee and coordinate safety throughout organizations. This thesis uses best-practice research to examine the safety protocols, practices, and safety management systems implemented in other high-risk professions, such as the fire service, military, and private industry, to determine common components and effective strategies that may be applied to the law enforcement profession. Numerous issues were identified to include the lack of a systemic approach to safety management, lack of a national reporting system for accidents and injuries, lack of safety management training for officers and leadership, lack of safety regulations and standards in the profession, and a failure to dedicate personnel to managing safety in organizations. A recommendation is then offered for a model law-enforcement safety management framework that can be applied to agencies of any size, with the goal of reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities in the profession."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  DeBoard, Maggie A.

  2015-12
• Pivots -- A Bottom-Up Approach to Enhance Resilience

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  From the thesis abstract: "Homeland security is evolving. Past and current linear approaches to preparedness do not focus on improving the 'resilience' of an area post-recovery. Most preparation efforts do not address or consider the high number of small business owners failing due to lack of planning, even though small businesses are sometimes as much as half of the economic life of any given area. To address these challenges, a holistic approach establishes multiple sectors of preparedness. This thesis explores the advantages of a wrap-around services model (similar to a business incubator) to provide entrepreneurs with tools and resources to withstand disaster. Case studies and best practices identify and inform models of preparedness, including community asset mapping, scenario planning, and social network analysis for capacity building within Anytown, USA, when facing natural or man-made disasters. This approach engages entrepreneurs and coordinates already existing models and resources into a cost-effective community asset, since every dollar spent on mitigation saves four dollars in the event of a disaster. Successful response models mobilize support for a more resilient nation, community by community."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Ibarra, Vladimir A.

  2015-12
• Case Studies of Predictive Analysis Applications in Law Enforcement

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  From the thesis abstract: "Law enforcement executives and policy makers continuously seek out effective strategies to reduce crime. Reducing crime reduces social harm, improves community resilience, and therefore improves homeland security. Before investing in a crime control strategy, police leaders must know if the effectiveness of that strategy has been validated. Predictive policing is one such strategy in use that relies on mathematical algorithms to forecast probable future crime locations and the application of interventions to interdict or prevent crime in those locations. In this thesis, theories and methodologies behind predictive policing are described, and the case study method is used to review current predictive policing practices. The research finds that despite the conventional wisdom that a correlation exists between the implementation of a predictive policing program and a reduction in crime, no evidence indicates that a direct cause and effect relationship exists. This thesis provides law enforcement executives and policy makers with objective research on the effectiveness of predictive analysis in reducing crime and provides recommendations for those evaluating whether to invest time and resources into a predictive policing program."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Hayes, William J.

  2015-12
• Quantifying a Negative: How Homeland Security Adds Value

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  From the thesis abstract: "Currently, fire department performance is measured in terms of tangible loss reduction, meaning lower dollar losses of tangible structures and contents equate with greater performance. This metric is flawed because it ignores the unmeasured performance of a fire department that saves nearby at-risk properties and businesses. Therefore, this thesis proposes a new metric: the saved ratio metric. It includes damages and business losses that may have occurred but did not, thanks to the suppression actions of an effective fire department. The saved ratio is defined as the ratio of the value that was saved at an incident versus the value of what was at risk. The total value of what was saved is defined as the total amount of what was at risk minus the total amount of what was lost, and total at risk is quantified using a new network model of at-risk property. Adjacent at-risk property is cast into a network model whereby structures are nodes and adjacency or direct contact is represented by links. Three major conclusions can be drawn from this study. First, the methodology of the real estate and economic industries can be used to quantify tangible and intangible value for structure fires. Second, network theory can be used to map the potential spread of a fire, allowing the user to identify which structures were saved or lost. Third, it is possible to estimate the return on investment added to the community from a fire suppression response model."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Saylors, Eric

  2015-12
• Department of Homeland Security's Pursuit of Data-Driven Decision Making

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  From the thesis abstract: "Lack of management integration is hindering the Department of Homeland Security's ability to conduct oversight and perform accurate assessments of its mission support functions. The DHS Under Secretary of Management and the Department's Management Directorate have been tasked with creating a 'unity of effort' aimed at integrating the department's management functions via technology strategies that capture data and use it to make informed decisions. This thesis explores these strategies as the Department makes strides towards removing itself from the GAO's [Government Accountability Office] classification of DHS as high-risk--a categorization due in part to DHS's inability to integrate the disparate management information systems in existence during its creation in 2001. The author conducted interviews with past and present senior executives in an effort to comprehensively explore the various strategies used to accomplish the goal of implementing true data-driven decision-making. The result is identification of impediments and facilitators associated with the ability to drive enterprise-wide change. These findings are then applied against a change management analytical framework, Leavitt's Diamond. Recognizing that change cannot happen in a vacuum, the findings are analyzed across the dimensions of Leavitt's Diamond to determine which strategies are most consistently aligned. Ultimately, the results of this thesis are considerations for how the Management Directorate can position and mature its technology strategies in accordance with other organizational dynamics."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  King, Robert C., III

  2015-12
• What Are We Missing? A Call for Red Teaming Within the Domestic Maritime Domain for Anti-terrorism Programs

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  From the thesis abstract: "As a component of the Department of Homeland Security and the department's lead for maritime security, the Coast Guard is charged with executing the United States domestic maritime anti-terrorism program. It is critical that Coast Guard policy, plans, and tactics maintain pace with the ever-changing risks associated with terrorism. This thesis examines alternative analysis red teaming and its potential value to the Coast Guard. Specifically, it seeks to answer how red teaming can be leveraged to enhance the value of domestic maritime anti-terrorism activities. The research reviews elements of the maritime domain and principles of red teaming, and proposes and provides implementation recommendations for a terrorism red teaming program for the domestic maritime domain. The study revealed that a red team program would be value added to the Coast Guard for domestic maritime anti-terrorism programs. Leveraging the concept of a minimal viable program, the thesis proposes a red team program and strategy to implement the program within the U.S. Coast Guard. The suggested program would be comprised of three elements: physical red teaming, identification of future attack scenarios, and policy red teaming. The thesis further provides insight into the implementation of these programs and suggests a minimal viable program approach to establishing a terrorism red teaming program for the domestic maritime domain."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  List, Timothy J.

  2015-12
• Correcting Blindness in the Nerve Center: How to Improve Situational Awareness

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  From the thesis abstract: "Even though success or failure depends on it, situational awareness in emergency operations centers is often poorly prioritized. These centers depend on situational awareness to manage information, coordinate resources, and support executive-level decision making. Having limited or poor situational awareness forces emergency responders to act without all the information needed to make good decisions, leading to poor coordination and ineffective response. In order to identify opportunities for improving situational awareness, this thesis used a qualitative case study approach to examine the level of importance situational awareness plays in the emergency operations center during disasters, and to identify both good and poor practices. Examining four case studies through an organizational-change analytic framework revealed that situational awareness is a system of interconnected elements that include task, structure, people, and technology. This thesis concludes that situational awareness in the emergency operations center can be improved by employing an emergency operations center situational awareness organizational model. Investments must be made in improving all elements of the organization. The research determined that the intelligence process is an ideal model for defining how situational awareness can be established, maintained, and shared."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Russas, Michael E., Sr.

  2015-12
• Increasing Effectiveness and Efficiency Through Risk-based Deployments

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  From the thesis abstract: "Over the past several years, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun shifting away from a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to security and toward one predicated upon risk-based security principles. The TSA has also been called upon by the Government Accountability Office and U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General to make risk-based decisions regarding the allocation and deployment of its resources. This thesis established an initial strategic framework with which to evaluate possible options and applied this framework to explore three possible paths forward. The first path was maintaining the current approach to resource deployments. The second path was the collection and analysis of various data points in order to understand the risk environment. The third path was the use of Bayesian game-theory to model adversarial actions. With the framework applied, the use of Bayesian game-theory was identified as the most beneficial to TSA in comparison to the other two assessed options. Strategic recommendations are also provided based upon research into the experiences of other entities with risk-based deployment methodologies."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Cotten, Thomas Randolph, IV

  2015-12
• Team Communication: The Social Identity Approach to Collaboration

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  From the thesis abstract: "This research applies the social identity approach to organizations and the public sector leaders who are instrumental in building the collaborative capacity of their respective groups. Collaboration at all levels of government and with the agencies within those levels of government has been elusive. Traditional studies on collaborative public management have focused on the need for collaboration and failures that occur without collaboration. Past studies in leadership communication have largely ignored the role of social identity in individual behavior. This research blends the social identity approach, collaborative public management, and leadership communication in order to alleviate these issues. The analysis of this research proposes that the social identity approach to organizational behavior gives insight into individual member behavior and thus the behavior of groups and the organization itself. Communication techniques are filtered through the social identity approach in order to identify those techniques that have the greatest chance of creating an identity that is more open to collaboration."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Sedam, Michael W.

  2015-12
• Implementation of Policies to Bridge the Gap Between Police Officer Line of Duty Deaths and Agency Resiliency

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  From the thesis abstract: "Law enforcement agencies in the United States experience line of duty deaths on a regular basis, but unfortunately too many agencies do not have a line of duty death policy. This thesis focuses on locating agencies with viable and effective line of duty death policies to assist other agencies in policy implementation. The research found agencies with proactive policies to help guide leadership and subordinate personnel through the many aspects of such tragic events. For comparative analysis, five law enforcement agencies and three fire departments with varying degrees of line of duty death experience were selected. This research examined formal and informal, as well as written and unwritten, line of duty death policies in use by law enforcement agencies and fire departments across the United States and identified viable examples of policies and procedures. This thesis recommends that the St. Petersburg Police Department and other law enforcement agencies without a line of duty death policy take steps to create and implement a policy to enhance resiliency, readiness, and effectiveness."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Hubbard, Patrice Nicole

  2015-12
• 'The Buck Stops Where?' Aligning Authority to Strategy in Homeland Security

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  From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines how having authority to make decisions in different levels of an organization affects performance. The homeland security implications of this study are that the agencies responsible for homeland security are commonly structured along a rigid hierarchy with authorities accumulated at the top. This slow-moving structure is compared to more decentralized and flexible organizations found in private industry and in some foreign governments. Organizational performance can be predicted by examining how the level of operating environment instability is matched to an organization's decision-making authorities. Using case study analysis, coupled with an extensive literature review, this thesis concludes that the more turbulent the potential environment, such as in the case of a terrorist threat or natural disaster, the more decentralized the organizations should be. The conclusion recognizes the political reality that Congress and executive leaders are not going to easily devolve authority to lower levels in organizations. Therefore, the study concludes with recommendations that agencies dealing in uncertain and changing environments be more loosely coupled at lower levels, allowing more decision-making authority to street-level operators while maintaining ultimate authority at upper levels. Finally, the thesis also recommends additional study of decentralizing strategies specific to homeland security agencies."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Swearingen, Brent D.

  2015-12
• Putting the Critical Back in Critical Infrastructure

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  From the thesis abstract: "In the context of national critical infrastructure security and resilience doctrine and deference to our federalist system and the sovereignty it demands, each of the sovereign states and their subdivisions have unilaterally interpreted their roles and priorities while still remaining true to the law of the land and national supremacy as demanded by the supremacy clause in Article VI of the United States Constitution. Each has independently structured, developed, and resourced its own critical infrastructure security and resilience program. Due to this subjective and evolving nature of the critical infrastructure security and resilience mission nationally, a qualitative research method was best suited and used for the foundational nature of this work. A formative program evaluation was conducted through an anonymous online survey to capture the perceptions and views of critical infrastructure professionals across the nation. The survey included an evaluation on the perceptions and views of the business process, program maturity and implementation, as well as the current state of outcomes. This thesis concludes with several key findings and recommendations based on the respondent survey data and analysis."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Mason, Bradford C.

  2015-12
• Building Automation System Cyber Networks: An Unmitigated Risk to Federal Facilities

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  From the thesis abstract: "The General Services Administration accesses building-automation system technology that runs federal facility processes such as HVAC [Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning], lighting, elevators, and access control via active Internet connections. Currently, these networks are not secure, despite legislation requiring them to be. This thesis investigated whether the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) could leverage existing federal laws, presidential directives, executive orders, government frameworks, and its current cyber and investigative capabilities to establish a strategy to secure federal facility building-automation system cyber networks, or if additional resources are needed The research uncovered significant vulnerabilities and threats to federal facility building-automation system networks, which, if exploited, could cause a significant impact on the American people, who are dependent on services offered by federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Social Security Administration. A qualitative research method was used to interpret and analyze government and nongovernment institutional studies and reports, existing cybersecurity frameworks, and scholarly journals to determine which of the policy options offered would provide the best strategy for the DHS moving forward. The thesis concluded that utilizing a combination of private contractors and existing DHS assets would provide the best option."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Tupper, Shawn P.

  2015-12
• Texas Should Adopt Homeland Security Standards for High-Speed Rail

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  From the thesis abstract: "A private corporation is proposing a high-speed intercity passenger train system to operate between Dallas and Houston using Japanese technology and methods. This project brings with it an array of unique and unprecedented homeland security issues. Train bombings in Madrid and London and attacks on high-speed trains elsewhere raise questions about the security of such transportation. A modern high-speed rail system is a network of potential vulnerabilities, and terrorist groups have identified public transportation as desirable targets. Should the State of Texas require homeland security standards for high-speed rail? A review of the literature reveals the number and consequences of terrorist actions against passenger rail in general and intercity high-speed trains in particular. In addition, it suggests that this writing is the first in its specific application. This thesis places the project in historical and geographical context and reviews potential vulnerabilities using a framework developed by the Argonne National Laboratory. Furthermore, it includes a fault tree analysis and an options analysis through which possible approaches are identified and analyzed. Finally, this thesis finds that the State of Texas should require homeland security standards and provides recommendations for action in the areas of law enforcement, cybersecurity, intelligence, privacy, screening, psychological and mental health effects, and community involvement."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Polunsky, Steven M.

  2015-12
• Comparative Analysis of Fusion Center Outreach to Fire and EMS Agencies

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  From the thesis abstract: "Fire and EMS responders have had little involvement with fusion center operations, and this directly impacts the country's safety. Only a handful of fusion centers have integrated the fire and emergency medical services (EMS) responders into the collection, analysis, and sharing of information on homeland security activities. This thesis analyzes the predominant practices of five fusion centers that have integrated fire and EMS responders into their reporting process. The highlighted practices from the study of these fusion centers can be utilized to expand the integration at fusion centers across the country and to further expand the role of the fire and EMS responder in homeland security. Implementing these practices involves the fusion centers commitment to integration, to cooperation, and to preparedness. Having basic terrorism behavior training, along with suspicious-activity indicator awareness, sets the baseline for fire and EMS agencies to select key decision makers who become the liaison with the fusion center. Sufficient quantities of fusion center liaisons are needed to support the size and number of agencies in the fusion centers' area of responsibility. Having uniformed senior fire and EMS line officers staffing the liaison positions will expand the trust of the fusion centers' processes while providing more channels for outreach and interaction between first responders and fusion centers."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Goldstein, Scott E.

  2015-12
• 'Sensing Disaster': The Use of Wearable Sensor Technology to Decrease Firefighter Line-of-Duty-Deaths

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  From the thesis abstract: "After more than 30 years of the American fire service averaging over 100 line-of-duty deaths annually, the technology now exists that can reduce the number of firefighter line-of-duty deaths of cardiac origin. Despite the creation of programs designed to improve firefighters' cardiac health and fitness, no reduction has occurred in the number of firefighters suffering fatal cardiac events. While firefighters can suffer heart attacks or cardiac emergencies anywhere, it has been well documented that firefighters working on the fire ground are exposed to significantly increased risk-factors for the development of coronary heart disease, as well as the exacerbation of underlying cardiac problems. As a result, more firefighters experience signs and symptoms of cardiac complications while on the fire ground than anywhere else while on duty. The development of wearable sensor technology now allows for incident commanders or their assigned designees to monitor the real-time physiologic health and wellness of each and every firefighter operating on the fire scene. Through the use of wearable sensor technology, firefighters can not only have their vital signs and EKG [Electrocardiogram] monitored, but this technology will also allow for real-time tracking of their location within a structure and their body motion, speed, and direction of travel. The use of wearable sensor technology in the fire service will have a significant impact on improving not only firefighter health and safety, but when fully developed, will improve other aspects of the firefighting profession, such as search and rescue and fire attack."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security

  Payne, John A.

  2015-12