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Establishing a Deradicalization/Disengagement Model for America's Correctional Facilities: Recommendations for Countering Prison Radicalization
From the thesis abstract: "Prison radicalization has been identified as a potentially significant threat to America's homeland security. When considering the inmate population currently housed within the Federal Bureau of Prisons with a terrorism nexus and the fact that 95 percent of our inmate population will return to our communities, the need for a proactive posture to prison radicalization becomes evident. Currently, the United States has no prison deradicalization program. This thesis provides a comparative analysis of two deradicalization/disengagement programs currently utilized in Singapore and Saudi Arabia. The analysis identifies externally valid data that provides the basis for recommendations for United States correctional policymakers in building a framework for a United States prison deradicalization model. This thesis also examines the current literature, relevant to prison radicalization and the prison environment that may promote prison radicalization. Through an analysis of these environmental elements, specific recommendations are made that attempt to counter the contributing factors, within the prison environment, that make the prison setting a fertile ground for radicalization."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Parker, Tony C.
2013-03
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Ready for the Future: Assessing the Collaborative Capacity of State Emergency Management Organizational Structures
From the thesis abstract: "Emerging needs of the emergency management discipline are outlined in recent presidential directives, national strategies and federal emergency management strategic initiative documents. Meeting these needs requires collaboration as a core capability. Collaboration with diverse communities, volunteers and the private sector are essential, as are strategic and operational actions for collaboration, building social capital, and using social media for collaboration. The future of our nation's resilience to disasters depends on a collaborative network of partners that reaches from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to individual citizens and the communities they inhabit. State emergency management agencies are the hub of this network and must lead the effort to effectively collaborate at all levels. The research findings of this thesis show that state emergency management organizations have not yet fully developed the collaborative capacities necessary to meet emerging needs. In addition, data shows that organizational structures of state emergency management organizations are impacting collaborative capacity development. In particular, military-based organizations lag behind their civilian-based counterparts in every area of collaborative capacity building. Reasons for these differences, and research into more effective structural models, should be explored."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Schaal, Jennifer
2013-03
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Should Cops Be Spies? Evaluating the Collection and Sharing of National Security Intelligence by State, Local and Tribal Law Enforcement
From the thesis abstract: "Presidential commissions, the Congress, and numerous national law enforcement groups have noted that the unfettered collection and sharing of intelligence is key to the prevention and mitigation of terrorism in the United States. The sharing of classified national security intelligence collected by the United States Intelligence Community with nonfederal law enforcement is, however, problematic, particularly since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. This thesis examines problems associated with the collection and sharing of classified national security intelligence with and by state, local and tribal law enforcement. It explores four policy options for the collection and sharing of national security intelligence, including Intelligence-led Policing, Nationwide Suspicious Activities Reporting Initiative; the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force; the National Counterterrorism Center/National Fusion Center; and the British Special Branch system. It recommends an American adaptation of the British Security Service and Metropolitan Police Service Special Branch model meant to improve the sharing of classified national security intelligence vital to the protection of the homeland. The recommendations in this thesis are designed to promote a debate on the utility and feasibility of classified national security intelligence collection within the homeland by state, local and tribal law enforcement."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Gomez, David C.
2013-03
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Measuring Security Effectiveness and Efficiency at U.S. Commercial Airports
From the thesis abstract: "Civil aviation contributes over $900 billion to the U.S. economy annually and the cost of securing U.S. aviation against criminal and terrorist attack runs in the billions of dollars. Therefore, it is critical to use appropriate metrics in managing the security policy and programs. Nonetheless, aviation security has typically evolved haphazardly as a reaction to changing criminal events, often resulting in widespread controversy. The U.S. Government Accountability Office and the media have questioned many Transportation Security Administration procedures. This thesis uses formative program evaluation and policy analysis to investigate current assessment of airport security programs. It identifies innovative public administration and policy-analysis tools that could provide potential benefit to airport security. These tools will complement the System Based Risk Management framework if the Transportation Security Administration involves more stakeholders in collecting and analyzing pertinent data, proactive planning, and developing solutions."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Diehl, Daniel
2013-03
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Message in a Battle: An Analysis of Presidential Communication Since 9/11
From the thesis abstract: "The use of public diplomacy is an essential component of counterterrorism efforts but, to date, the United States has not been as effective in its attempts to utilize strategic communication against the threat of violent Islamic extremism as it has been in its utilization of military, intelligence, and law enforcement resources. Based upon the idea that a retrospective analysis of previous presidential speeches could provide guidance for future strategic communications of U.S. government officials, this thesis identifies the nature of the message delivered by U.S. Presidents to foreign audiences since the 9/11 attacks through a qualitative analysis of a purposeful sampling of 50 speeches and statements. The analysis examines the position of the United States government in the ideological debate with violent Islamic extremists to determine whether the United States has taken a largely defensive stance, in which the United States constantly strives to counter the narrative of violent extremist adversaries, or a more forward-leaning posture, in which the United States remains primarily concerned with presenting its own narrative based on its values and ideals. The results of this analysis are then utilized to offer recommendations on modifying the message to better support U.S. efforts to combat violent Islamic extremism."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Maguire, Jacqueline
2013-03
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Increased Anti-Money Laundering Banking Regulations and Terrorism Prosecutions
From the thesis abstract: "After 9/11, anti-money laundering banking regulations were increased to counter terrorism finance. This study attempts to identify whether increasing banking regulations has countered terrorism finance by reviewing terrorism prosecutions. This study looked at federal terrorism prosecutions from January 2004 through April 2009. The study reviewed court documents and case backgrounds for indicators that anti-money laundering banking regulations were useful to the terrorism prosecution by either detecting terrorism financing or by supporting other charges, such as money laundering. The study did not find that banking regulations detected terrorist financing. The avoidance of banking regulations was used to support money laundering charges in two cases; however, pre-9/11 regulations would have sufficed. The study found that increasing anti-money laundering banking regulations had limited effects on countering terrorism financing. How anti-money laundering banking regulations are implemented within a counterterrorism finance regime should be reevaluated."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kao, Albert L.
2013-03
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Expanding the Role of Emergency Medical Services in Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has an established nationwide workforce that has not participated in homeland security as a full partner. EMS is a profession in transition that is looking to establish its identity and expand in ways that enhance its overall mission. This thesis explores the role of EMS in response, recovery, acting as intelligence sensors, participation in fusion centers, and syndromic surveillance to see if there are practical applications and logical integrations that could provide value to homeland security. EMS has an opportunity to take advantage of new models and technologies to meet the needs of the citizens and to improve the outcomes of patients. EMS should consider what expanded roles in homeland security enhances the EMS profession, improves security at home, and meets current goals of EMS across the nation. Comparative analysis, application, evaluation, measurement, and vulnerability assessment provided several potential new roles for EMS in homeland security."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kemp, Malcolm
2013-03
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Sustaining Statewide Disaster Response Capabilities from a Fire Service Perspective
From the thesis abstract: "The events of 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina have forever changed the way we look at disaster readiness and response from an emergency-response perspective at the local, state, and federal levels of government. A public expectancy of preparedness and resilience for emergency-response organizations that leverages collaboration in order to meet mission requirements is a primary focus of government. To assist emergency-responder readiness at the state and local levels of government, the federal government has increased homeland security spending by more than 350 percent since 2001 (Federal Emergency Management Agency, 2012). Because of current fiscal constraints posed by a lagging economy, local and state emergency responders must find a more efficient way to prepare and manage disaster preparedness and response. Using the state of Texas as its focus, a policy analysis of centralized and decentralized disaster response has been studied in order to explore more efficient methods of disaster response. The emphasis is an analysis of how the fire service in Texas is integrated into Texas Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue, and how the statewide model of disaster response could be organized to maximize cost effectiveness and emergency responder capability."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Giusti, Richard G.
2013-03
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Faded Colors: From the Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) to the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS)
From the thesis abstract: "After the events of 9/11, Homeland Security Presidential Directive-3 (HSPD-3) established the Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS) to provide a comprehensive and effective means to disseminate information regarding the risk of terrorist acts to federal, state, and local authorities and the American people. Under HSAS, threat levels were raised or lowered 16 times, but never below Threat Level Yellow (Elevated Condition). HSAS should have been straightforward and easy to understand. What evolved was confusion over alerts, lack of specific threat information, concerns over costs to institute and maintain protective measures, and questions regarding what was expected of citizens. Government agencies, the private sector, and the general population became immune with the threat level remaining at or above Yellow. HSAS was woefully misunderstood not just by the general population, but also within federal, state, and local governments. Ridiculed by comedians, HSAS gradually began to disappear, to the point where it was necessary to search to find the current threat level, whereas it had once been prominently posted. The purpose of this thesis is to review HSAS and the associated problems, look at comparable international systems, and present an alternative recommendation to provide timely and informative warnings of terrorist threats, and restore credibility by merging HSAS with the already existing DoD [Department of Defense] force protection conditions."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Sharp, Vincent H.
2013-03
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Formulating a Strategic Response Plan For a High-Risk Seismic Event In New York City
From the thesis abstract: "One of the lessons the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) has learned from the attacks of September 11, 2001, is to be prepared for the inevitable. As one of the world's most renowned emergency response agencies, the FDNY can and should be the model of preparedness for any disaster that may affect New York City (NYC). Historical and scientific data confirms the very real threat of a low frequency, high risk earthquake affecting the NYC region. Potential for devastation is compounded due to the complexity of NYC's infrastructure and the vast population unfamiliar with this type of natural disaster. The formulation of an FDNY pre-plan for a high-risk earthquake scenario based on extensive information-gathering and the assembly of a dedicated focus group will lessen the impact of a powerful quake while minimizing losses to lives, property and emergency responders themselves. By being prepared for the seemingly inevitable, the FDNY can live up to its role as one of the world's most respected emergency response agencies."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Barvels, Michael B.
2013-03
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Improving Strategic Planning for Federal Public Health Agencies Through Collaborative Strategic Management
From the thesis abstract: "Collaborative strategic management of public health emergency and homeland security issues can address gaps in roles and responsibilities and foster better coordinated planning at the federal level. Recent changes in the alignment of the national planning standards for public health emergency preparedness have created an opportunity to rethink the collaborative approach to strategic planning. This thesis considers the role that collaborative strategic management and collaborative frameworks may play in strengthening strategic planning at the federal level through a policy options analysis. Considerations for implementation and recommendations moving forward are provided for both existing collaborations and new collaborations."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Martin, Jennifer L.
2013-03
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Myth, Metaphor, and Imagination: Framing Homeland Security as Art and Archetype
From the thesis abstract: "Art, myth, metaphors and archetypes can foster divergent thinking and serve as channels for integrating imagination and evocative ambiguity into traditional analysis and problem solving. New ways of representing ideas about homeland security not only provide vehicles for communication, but also expand and improve our ability to contemplate and understand this complex, emerging discipline. Through this paper and three original artworks, I argue for admitting art, imagination and the searching attitude of humanism into the domain of homeland security. I use the myth of Perseus and Medusa to focus on the mirrored shield as a metaphor for seeing ourselves as part of the predicament and for regarding the response not simply as solution, but as creative evolution. The metaphors we choose, consciously or unconsciously, to tell the story of homeland security will frame not only what we think but how we act and how we are perceived. Art is not frivolous. It is both mirror and shield, and allows us to move, stretch, and reach to transform reality. Art is forward leaning and operates in a non-linear or supra-linear process whose edges, mass, margins, and shadows expand the universe of possibilities and pre-suppose the existence of new forms."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Epley, Veronica H.
2013-03
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On a Clear Day, You Can See ICS: The Dying Art of Incident Command and the Normal Accident of NIMS-A Policy Analysis
From the thesis abstract: "One basic expectation that citizens have of government is to restore order in the face of devastation. With each catastrophic incident, politicians and administrators step under the public microscope, as they attempt to bring order out of chaos. Failure to perform such a basic governmental function subjects officials and agencies to immense scrutiny with personal and organizational repercussions. In the quest for the answers to 'What can be done better next time?' and 'How do we prevent this from happening again?' elected officials and bureaucrats seek various policies. A recent example of this is the National Incident Management System (NIMS). NIMS is a fusion of Incident Command Systems (ICS) and broad governmental policy aimed at providing a systematic response to incidents. The fact that NIMS became policy was quite possibly a predictable event in an incremental series of events that began in the early 1970s. This thesis reveals how these predictable and incremental efforts have pushed our national frameworks into an increasing state of complexity with the potential of catastrophic failure. Further, this thesis recommends ways that will harvest success in the face of a catastrophic or disastrous incident without increasing complexity."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Teeter, Andrew C.
2013-03
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Clarifying Resilience in the Context of Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "The term resilience is frequently used in the context of homeland security. The definition continues to emerge within the evolving homeland security enterprise. The purpose of this thesis is to clarify the concept of resilience in the context of homeland security. Existing homeland security polices of the federal government of the United States were synthesized with resilience-based research obtained from various sciences. The synthesis of research and policy concluded that resilience is a process of adaptability influenced by complexity, interaction, and experience. In the homeland security context, resilience is a continual process of adaptation based upon a variety of man made, natural, and economic adversities. Resilience is a vision of homeland security rather than a policy of the enterprise. The homeland security practitioner's understanding of resilience is influenced through the clarification, introduction, and application of the concept. Developing a clear understanding of resilience is accomplished through the development of a resilience narrative for the enterprise, the introduction of the concept into new and existing training programs of the homeland security enterprise, and the application of the concept as an approach of the enterprise. The exploration of the homeland security enterprise at the academic and practitioner level requires a directional heading. The concept of resilience recommended by this thesis establishes a directional heading for the homeland security practitioner."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Monier, Jerry T., Jr.
2013-03
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Suicide Terrorism in America?: The Complex Social Conditions of This Phenomenon and the Implications for Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "This research applies social identity and intergroup relations theory to the phenomenon of suicide terrorism and develops a framework that can be used to better understand the threat of suicide terrorism and the implications for United States homeland security. Suicide terrorism is growing worldwide and is becoming more geographically diverse. Traditional studies of suicide terrorism tend to seek causal explanations of the phenomenon. This research uses a grounded theory approach to study the phenomenon that seeks to offer insight, enhance understanding, and provide a meaningful framework for understanding. The findings of this research recommend an alternate framework for understanding suicide terrorism based on the application of social identity theory and intergroup relations theory. Through the identification of alternative normative accounts in the choices that individuals make, this research is able to identify the complex social conditions of suicide terrorism and argues that the phenomenon is driven by powerful socio-cultural systems that prey on an individual's basic identity needs." A 9-min, 44-second video interview on this thesis is also available at the following link: [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did= 730385]
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Fleece, Richard J.
2012-12
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Enhancing Decision Making During Initial Operations at Surge Events
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis utilized a Delphi survey method to obtain the perspective of seasoned Incident Commanders (ICs), as they reflected on their experience responding to surge incidents. Surge events are defined as complex and chaotic emergencies that require resources well beyond normal operating capacity. These surge events are rare and of such a magnitude that the Incident Commander is confronted with a unique situation that often exceeds his/her experience and ability to improvise and adapt to changing conditions. This thesis combines the pertinent literature on decision making, situational awareness, collaboration and geospatial technology with the lens of experience provided by the Delphi panel. First, this research identifies and prioritizes 18 signals that an incident is becoming nonroutine, unfamiliar and chaotic. Second, it provides an inventory of strategic options that an Incident Commander can consider when faced with the chaos that often accompanies a surge event. Finally, this material was synthesized into a quick action guide as a reference source that can inform Incident Commanders, as they face the dynamic and unpredictable environment of surge events. The knowledge obtained through this research is offered with the desire to enhance the ability of Incident Commanders to make effective decisions when lives are most at risk." A 12-minute, 28-second interview on this thesis is also available at the following link: [https://www.hsdl.org/?mdt:manage&did=730384]
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Duggan, Brian P.
2012-12
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Southwest Hispanic Community-The Absence of Homeland Security Threats
From the thesis abstract: "Threats of terrorism and insurgency along the Southwest border are typically supported by anecdotal evidence rather than objective assessments of such threats, which limit the ability to appropriately address issues related to homeland security, such as immigration enforcement and border security. This thesis provides an objective assessment of the potential for terrorist and insurgent threats to emanate from within the Southwest Hispanic Community by reviewing the status of and pressures upon the community using Social Identity Theory and Resource Mobilization Theory. Data indicates that Hispanics in the Southwest typically experience greater disparities in sociocultural, economic, and political conditions due to regional ethnic concentration. External and internal pressures, represented by immigration policy and mandates for language usage, also have greater impact upon the community. Social Identity Theory provides a means for understanding 'why' social movement form, while Resource Mobilization Theory provides insight into 'how' movements are created. The potential for radicalization is also examined to determine if violent movements can develop from otherwise nonviolent movements or communities. Despite disparities and significant pressure, the conclusion is that there are no current homeland security threats of terrorism or insurgency and the adoption of omnicultural policies can further reduce what limited potential may exist."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Moore, Alan G.
2012-12
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Aviation Security: Biometric Technology and Risk Based Security Aviation Passenger Screening Program
From the thesis abstract: "Since 9/11, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has struggled to maintain a balance between providing a secure world-class aviation passenger-screening program (APSP) while providing efficiency, convenience and security for the traveling public and the airline industry. For years the TSA has applied resources and procedures uniformly to all passengers during aviation passenger screening. It is mainly a 'one size fits all ' screening where all passengers are treated as equal risk, which has exponentially increased resources, procedures and equipment required to do aviation passenger screening, Recently, the Transportation Security Administration has sought to find a better way to conduct aviation passenger screening and is transitioning to Risk Based Security (RBS). The RBS initiatives have greatly improved the aviation passenger screening experience while increasing the efficiency of checkpoint screening by shortening the amount of wait times. Furthermore, it has allowed resources to be applied to high-risk individuals and lessen the burden of passenger screening on low-risk individuals. This has freed up resources reduced procedures while simultaneously increasing the efficiency of the checkpoint. The research here provides options on how to better enable current RBS initiatives by incorporating biometric technology into the aviation passenger-screening program. This research has reviewed other government programs that have incorporated biometrics into their procedures to improve the efficiency and reliability by using biometrically enhanced security measures. Through the application or modification of these biometrically enhanced security programs of other agencies, the TSA could standardize and incorporate biometrics into the RBS APSP allowing for authentication of both identity verification and identification. This research will explore how to incorporate biometrics into the current Risk- Based Security Aviation Passenger Screening Program."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Cooper, Curt S.
2012-12
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New Technologies and Emerging Threats: Personnel Security Adjudicative Guidelines in the Age of Social Networking
From the thesis abstract: "Publicized incidents involving espionage or violence by government employees with security clearances have raised concern for the personnel security community. The guidelines used to adjudicate security clearances were last updated in 2005; since that time, significant technological developments, especially in social media and communications, have emerged. This thesis developed a comprehensive list of current Internet behaviors, and used the list to examine Internet behavior in cases of cleared government employees who have been charged with espionage or terrorism-related crimes since 2008. Cases showed a trend of increasing variety of behaviors in these cases with time. In contrast, data from the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) pertaining to proposed security clearance denials related to the Use of Information Technology Systems guideline showed a slight decrease. Incorporation of cybervetting into the background investigation process is proposed as a measure to enhance mitigation of questionable Internet behaviors, and may result in an increase in security clearance denials. Examination of the list of Internet behaviors against the current adjudicative guidelines resulted in recommended improvements for the Foreign Influence, Financial Considerations, Personal Conduct, Handling Protected Information, and Use of Information Technology Systems guidelines. Operations Security is proposed as a completely new adjudicative guideline."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Festa, James P.
2012-12
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Preparing Minority Populations for Emergencies: Connecting to Build a More Resilient Community
From the thesis abstract: "Disagreement continues over events that resulted from the country's largest and most controversial natural disaster, Hurricane Katrina. Casualties due to poor evacuation procedures and inconsistent responses in search and rescue have been examined in the media and academia. Finger pointing trumps constructive discussion. Government officials sought to place responsibility at the feet of many including the victims. Likewise, others place blame on an ineffective government process that excludes people of color. Are government authorities really reaching out to minorities to bridge the gap, or are lapses in communication efforts systemic of a larger problem? Shared experiences resulting from long-standing discrimination toward minority populations, particularly those of African descent, have historically affected their perception of government and its concern for their well-being. To quell this perception and add value to the emergency preparedness doctrine, a community-based approach emphasizing personal responsibility is most effective in bridging the trust gap and building resiliency, which will necessitate change in narratives that create the story lines of minority communities to promote social force change. The use of 'positioning theory' variables will enable this change in both individual behavior and actions, and positively impact the next generation's ability to be prepared for disaster."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Miller, Paul L.
2012-12
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Purposefully Manufactured Vulnerabilities in U.S. Government Technology Microchips: Risks and Homeland Security Implications
From the thesis abstract: "Government at all levels, industry, military and critical infrastructure, may be at risk due to purposeful manipulation of micro-processing chips during the manufacturing process. Many microchips intentionally provide remote access to allow for monitoring and updating firmware. However, a remote access capability also introduces a vulnerability, which allows others to potentially take control of a system and shut it down remotely, spy, or remove data. If this is in fact occurring, the implications to the national and homeland security could be significant. It does not appear that there are currently policies and processes to identify purposefully manufactured vulnerable micro processing chips. Should it be determined that vulnerabilities do in fact exist, a federal government-led effort is needed to identify the entities producing these chips; to assess possible intentions of these actors; inventory hardware that is in use, which may have been compromised; and, finally, to pursue the development of a remediation strategy. Additionally, the current supply chain process will have to be re-examined to mitigate current and future concerns. Therefore, in 2012, the Government Accounting Office recommended that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) create and implement a cyber security supply chain vulnerability policy. This policy will assist the federal, state, and local governments, as well as private sector entities, to develop guidelines for procurement and policy decisions."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Perera, George
2012-12
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Evolving the Local Fire Service Intelligence Enterprise in New York State: Implementing a Threat Liaison Officer Program
From the thesis abstract: "Eleven years after the attacks of 9/11, the local fire departments in New York State (excluding New York City) have made limited progress toward increasing their involvement in the homeland security intelligence enterprise. The New York State (NYS) fire service, however, has underutilized potential to be effective contributors, consumers and collaborators with regards to intelligence and information sharing. As the threats facing the fire service and the citizens it protects continue to evolve, the local NYS fire service must build upon NYS's intelligence strengths and overcome existing gaps. This thesis recommends developing and implementing a locally initiated, statewide fire service inclusive Terrorism Liaison Officer (TLO) program. Based on four factors (effectiveness, efficiency, political and legal feasibility, and adaptability), a systematic policy options analysis compares three nationally recognized TLO programs to determine a recommended NYS TLO program model. A detailed implementation strategy is developed to address key stakeholder challenges. This thesis demonstrates that instituting a NYS fire service inclusive TLO program will be a catalyst for evolution. Increasing the local fire service's involvement with the homeland security intelligence enterprise is a natural evolution of the fire service's existing public safety mission."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Covert, Robert M., II
2012-12
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Homeland Security Ecosystem: An Analysis of Hierarchical and Ecosystem Models and Their Influence on Decision Makers
From the thesis abstract: "The premise of this study is the principle that prevention, preparedness, response and recovery strategies for complex manmade threats to our nation necessitate both collaboration and knowledge sharing among government agencies. The thesis asks, 'What can be learned by examining the New Jersey homeland security environment through both hierarchical and ecosystem models, and what aid can those heuristic templates provide to organizational decision making?' The analysis of existing literature revealed two sets of frameworks or conceptual lenses. The hierarchical framework includes command and control, authorities, planning, information flows, organizational culture and behavior, SOPs [Standard Operating Procedures], policy, and governance. The ecosystem framework includes strategic planning, cooperation, collaboration, interdependencies, information flows, diversity, emergence, and networks. The two frameworks are used to conduct comparative case studies of past complex events that occurred within the New Jersey's homeland security environment. The study's findings suggest that New Jersey's fusion center, based on its structure and capabilities, is suitable for blending both organizational frameworks, leading it to having the capacity to solve complex issues through collaboration, emergence, strategic planning, networks, and information sharing."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Schulz, Christian A.
2012-12
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Enhancing Situational Awareness When Addressing Critical Incidents at Suburban and Rural Schools
From the thesis abstract: "This research identifies some of the terrorism-related vulnerabilities in suburban and rural school district facilities and operations throughout New York State. An evaluation of the resources and technologies available to first responders (police, fire, and EMS [Emergency Medical Services] personnel) was conducted through a survey instrument delivered to agencies in the state, in order to identify areas for improvement to response capabilities and protocols for critical incidents in suburban and rural schools. The research also identifies and evaluates emerging technologies that can improve situational awareness, enhance safety, and assist in applying these policies when addressing critical incidents at suburban and rural school districts. The study makes specific recommendations for districts in New York State and highlights useful information for communities across the nation to develop strategies and techniques for first responders to share geospatial information, increase response capabilities, improve effectiveness, promote safety, and reduce vulnerability to terrorist threats and acts of violence."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
O'Flynn, Patrick M.
2012-12
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Rethinking Disasters: Finding Efficiencies Through Collaboration
From the thesis abstract: "Disasters are highly inopportune and represent a convergence of complexities, including multiple layers of government, private and non-profit organizations, and diverse populations. The complexity and unpredictability of disasters has been countered with structured management strategies. While an ordered environment has merit, perhaps the management of disasters is over-engineered that results in missed opportunities to capitalize on collaborative, decentralized solutions. This thesis evaluates the processes and procedures for responding to disasters by examining the current tiered response model (local, state, federal) and exploring whether a nonlinear, adaptive approach could improve interagency collaboration and result in better resource utilization. This research creates a framework for dialogue about the deeper appreciation of the complexities and hardships of disaster response. The management of disasters has been routinely criticized. Using a formative program evaluation method, primary and secondary data analysis focuses on understanding the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, the effectiveness of resource deployment, and intergovernmental collaboration during disaster response. This thesis concludes with several recommendations ranked based on multiple factors including political acceptability, economic plausibility, public perception, effectiveness, and appropriate utilization of resources."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Phillips, Samantha C.
2012-12
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Viewpoints in Homeland Defense and Security: Thesis Series: Your Faith, My Fear: Countering Consent to Cosmic Positioning [video]
From the Video Description: "Addressing American fear of discourse on faith, as indicated through evolving American faith narratives, is essential in effectively countering modern day terrorism and to sustaining and securing the republic founded upon unique and enduring democratic principles. In this interview, Julie Nation discusses her research which explores American faith narratives and subsequent relevance to cosmic war, the consequences of American reactions and perceptions to religious extremism, and the prospect, parameters, and purpose of inclusive faith discourse in the public square." The duration of this video is 14 minutes and 13 seconds. The complete thesis can be accessed at the following web address: [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=710342]
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Nations, Julie
2012-09-06
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Viewpoints in Homeland Defense and Security: Thesis Series: Crossing the River, A Conceptual Framework for Response to Chaos [video]
From the Video Description: "This thesis suggests that the existing protocols for initial emergency response to a chaotic event do not take advantage of the decision-making skills of front-line responders. Building from a foundation derived from the concepts of reductionism, holism and the Cynefin framework, a purposeful sample of real-world incidents was examined in an attempt to understand and demonstrate how front-line, emergent decision making can positively impact a chaotic emergency scene." The duration of this video is 11 minutes and 1 second. The complete thesis can be accessed at the following web address: [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=710258]
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Linthicum, David W.
2012-09-06
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Viewpoints in Homeland Defense and Security: Thesis Series: The Nation that Cried Lone Wolf [video]
From the Video Description: "The purpose of this award-winning thesis was to analyze the characteristics of lone-wolf terrorism through formal statistical models. The study then synthesized data with case study and existing literature to formulate a base of knowledge for lone-wolf terrorism." The duration of this video is 8 minutes and 28 seconds. The complete thesis can be accessed at the following web address: [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=710310]
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Eby, Charles A.
2012-09-06
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Removal of Maher Arar and Lessons Learned for Future Engagement Between the United States and Canada
From the thesis abstract: "Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the United States and Canada have engaged at the highest levels of government to integrate immigration and law enforcement policies and achieve common homeland security benefits. This engagement demonstrates agreement across political parties in both countries on those areas and objectives critical to increasing North American security. Over the same period of time, the removal by the United States of Canadian citizen Maher Arar--based in part on derogatory information provided by Canadian law enforcement--illustrates vividly the complexity, sensitivity and necessity of informal collaboration between agencies in both countries. This thesis presents a case study of the removal of Mr. Arar in order to suggest strategies that policymakers in both countries may adopt in order to achieve greater progress toward the objectives identified during bilateral engagement over the past decade. This thesis relies on the unclassified results of official inquiries in the United States and Canada as well as the record developed by related litigation in both countries, and concludes that this incident itself continues to prevent further integration between the United States and Canada and should be addressed squarely to achieve greater progress toward bilateral security objectives."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Gonzalez, Jorge
2012-09
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Policy Options to Address Crucial Communication Gaps in the Incident Command System
From the thesis abstract: "The Incident Command System (ICS) resulted from the need for a new approach to the problem of managing wildfires in the early 1970s. The events of September 11, 2001, led to issuing of Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD) 5 requiring agencies to adopt ICS as their incident management system. However, in events of national significance since then, internal communications have not performed well, causing numerous response problems. In addition, public information systems have failed to meet the community's expectations and keep the public informed about the size, scope, and impact of the emergency. Three models of possible solutions for addressing the problem were assessed. Model 1 consists of expanding the Communications Unit within the Logistics Section. Model 2 expands and clearly defines the duties, roles and responsibilities of the Public Information Officer. Model 3 merges all communications functions into one section directly under the Incident Commander. Metrics were designed around the management characteristics of the ICS and were assessed utilizing a defined scale. The research found that the creation of the Communication Section would provide the most benefits towards improving communications. However, that model may be difficult to implement due to resistance to strategic change."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Bushman, Edward
2012-09
