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Dual Disruptions: Overcoming the Effects of Disasters and Mis-, Dis-, and Mal-Information on Democracies
From the thesis Abstract: "Democracy stands at a critical juncture in the current environment of mis-, dis-, and mal-information spreading in the media ecosystem and intensifying disaster challenges. This thesis examines how democratic governments can maintain legitimacy after a catastrophic disaster in the age of false information. It uses the comparative case study method to evaluate three international catastrophic disaster responses--the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear power plant disaster in Japan; the Australian wildfires of 2019-2020; and the COVID-19 response in the United States beginning in 2020--within the frameworks for democratic principles, crisis leadership, sensemaking, and the social production of disasters. This thesis finds that the combination of ineffective disaster response, poor leadership, and false information can undermine socially constructed legitimacy, amplify and intensify existing social divides, and create instability and distrust of the government. This thesis proposes a model of social response to disasters that recommends networked responder actions to uphold democratic institutions and legitimacy when citizens have been affected by chaos and uncertainty in the operational and information environments. It recommends building trust and resilient communities through sensemaking, meaning-making, adaptation, community stabilization, and ethics and equity."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
McLane, Lauren
2021-03
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Beyond Reform: Better Policing Through Systems Thinking
From the thesis Abstract: "Police reform is a long-standing objective in America. In one form or another, the same fundamental problem persists: police have never consistently navigated the tension between effectively policing society and being a part of it. In part, systems theory helps explain why traditional best-practice reforms have not been consistently effective. The solution to these problems may lie not in reform but in reframing the approach to police organizations through systems thinking. This thesis seeks to answer a key question predicated on the assumption that reform is not enough: How can systems thinking improve policing? Using gap analysis, this thesis identifies ways to improve American policing and its processes through application of systems theory, specifically systems thinking. This research considers some of the problems that face policing from a systems-thinking perspective and finds that managing systems structures, building agent capacity, understanding context and goal-setting, and pursuing feedback could improve policing in ways that traditional reform strategies have not. Finally, it recommends that law enforcement agencies adopt systems-thinking strategies to improve performance."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Bagby, Christopher R.
2021-03
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Connecting Law Enforcement Records Management Systems
From the thesis Abstract: "Every law enforcement agency uses records management systems (RMS) that contain a wealth of information essential for investigations or intelligence. This information includes crime reports, arrest reports, name records, and property records. The ability to share this information between law enforcement agencies, especially those with bordering jurisdictions, would appear beneficial to the homeland security enterprise; however, this thesis reveals that sharing RMS data is not occurring as often as expected. Direct RMS connections are uncommon, and law enforcement agencies possess valuable information hemmed off in seclusion. This thesis examines a research-based RMS model and other systems that attempt to solve the data-sharing problem. One case study reveals the costly failure of a records system commissioned by the FBI. A survey and interviews of Texas police agencies reveal gaps in information sharing, including many not furnishing data to exchange networks. Although fusion centers and regional information-sharing systems (RISS) provide valuable intelligence and investigative products, many police agencies do not use these resources. How can law enforcement improve information sharing? The answer requires agency leaders to become educated on the many resources available and break down bureaucratic or political barriers that prevent the automated sharing of law enforcement RMS data."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Birkenfeld, Martin L., Jr.
2021-03
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Fire When Ready: A Needs-Based Analysis of Firearms in the U.S. Fire Sector
From the thesis Abstract: "Recent active shooter incidents and other on-the-job violent encounters have caused U.S. fire departments to consider arming their personnel. Since governmental bodies and safety agencies have failed to establish firearms-use guidelines within the fire sector, many fire service decision-makers have arbitrarily adopted gun carry policies. This thesis investigates the most relevant factors such as firearms program costs, gun training concerns, and safety agency positions on firearms for the U.S. fire sector to consider when establishing firearms programs and employs a comparative options analysis methodology. Issues surrounding proper training in gun use and gun storage, the lack of safety agency guidance, and conflicting gun policy attitudes are some of the crucial elements addressed. This work evaluates the Department of Public Safety (DPS), Tactical Fire Team (TFT), and conceal carry programs, which can be leveraged by fire stakeholders to make informed decisions as they consider including firearms in their operational models. Finally, this study concludes that departments should fashion firearms programs in the image of established armed teacher programs, which have yielded the most robust safety records and that the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) should be assigned to set standards for a full suite of safe gun practices. Moreover, if properly motivated, the federal government can enact one national firearms policy for fire service members."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Zam, Christopher E.
2021-03
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Every Community an Island: Preparing for Catastrophic Disasters
From the thesis Abstract: "This thesis is a single-case study of Puerto Rico's experience with Hurricane Maria and its catastrophic impacts. As the nation faces more complex and frequent catastrophic disasters, practitioners must consider how to build resilience in a meaningful way by beginning with the community. America's approach to disaster preparedness and response outlined in the National Preparedness Goal (NPG) and the National Response Framework (NRF) has respectively produced 'whole community' concepts and a tiered response approach to disasters. However, the NPG has yet to realize the concept of 'whole community' fully by effectively integrating community-based actors and other non-governmental entities into disaster preparedness, response, and recovery cycles. The NRF also does not outline contingencies for the collapse of the framework in catastrophic disasters when mutual aid, state, and federal resources become unavailable or insufficient for lengthy periods of time, leaving communities isolated. To examine these issues, Puerto Rico's disaster impacts are examined via the Federal Emergency Management Agency's community lifelines as a categorical method of organization. By synthesizing a large body of literature, this study provides disaster preparedness and response conclusions for all lifelines and identifies overarching themes centered upon a need for holistic disaster preparedness, integration of non-governmental actors, decentralization, and redundant critical infrastructure systems."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Card, Sean
2021-03
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Civil Restitution as an Objective of Department of Homeland Security Mission 3
From the thesis abstract: "Rates of illegal immigration recidivism by previously convicted and removed noncitizens--criminal immigration recidivists--are disconcerting. Enforcement strategies such as prosecution and removals do not appear to prevent and deter this population's reoffending behavior as much as expected. Meanwhile, resources are continually strained--at the taxpayers' expense--due to re-enforcement of immigration, criminal, and other laws. As a result, this thesis argues in favor of introducing civil restitution (CR) as an enforcement strategy against criminal immigration recidivism. In support of this argument, the author employed a hybrid experimental and causal design methodology to research the history of restitution as an alternative sanction in the criminal justice system. The feasibility of developing a strategy against criminal immigration recidivism modeled after restitution's theoretical underpinnings was explored and tested. The CR strategy borrows from restitution's focus on holding offenders accountable for the financial losses their offenses have caused to their victims, and, as per the research findings, its potential to lower recidivism rates, thereby reducing the costs of re-enforcing or reinitiating the removal process at the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) expense. The thesis concludes by recommending the implementation of a CR policy model strategy. The strategy will become part of the DHS Mission 3's 'prevention of unlawful immigration' goals and objectives."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Calcaño, Niurka Y.
2014-06
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Ultra-Marathoners of Human Smuggling: Defending Forward Against Dark Networks That Can Transport Terrorists Across American Land Borders
From the thesis abstract: "National legislation requires America's homeland security agencies to disrupt transnational human smuggling organizations capable of transporting terrorist travelers to all U.S. borders. Federal agencies have responded with programs targeting extreme-distance human smuggling networks that transport higher-risk immigrants known as special interest aliens (SIAs) from some 35 'countries of interest' in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia where terrorist organizations operate. Yet ineffectiveness and episodic targeting are indicated, in part by continued migration from those countries to the U.S. southwestern border since 9/11. Should an attack linked to SIA smuggling networks occur, homeland security leaders likely will be required to improve counter-SIA interdiction or may choose to do so preemptively. This thesis asks how SIA smuggling networks function as systems and, based on this analysis, if their most vulnerable fail points can be identified for better intervention targeting. Using NVivo qualitative analysis software, the study examined 19 U.S. court prosecutions of SIA smugglers and other data to produce 20 overarching conclusions demonstrating how SIA smuggling functions. From these 20 conclusions, seven leverage points were extracted and identified for likely law enforcement intervention success. Fifteen disruption strategies, tailored to the seven leverage points, are recommended."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Bensman, Todd
2015-09
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Ultra-Marathoners of Human Smuggling: Defending Forward Against Dark Networks that Can Transport Terrorists Across American Land Borders [Supplemental]
This document is the supplemental to the thesis "Ultra-Marathoners of Human Smuggling: Defending Forward Against Dark Networks that Can Transport Terrorists Across American Land Borders" by Todd Bensman. "Five pre-2004 court cases analyzed for this research were not entirely available on PACER: United States v. Ashraf Ahmed Abdallah, United States v. Mehrzad Arbane, United States v. Mohammad Assadi, United States v. Mehar Jarad, and United States v.
Nancy Zaia. Court documents related to these cases were acquired directly from U.S. Attorney's offices in 2007, during related research." The associated thesis can be found at the following link [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=788177].
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Bensman, Todd
2015-09
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Out Through the Out Door: Policy Options in the Fight Against Visa Overstays
From the thesis abstract: "Foreign nationals admitted to the United States who remain beyond their period of admission present an enforcement problem for U.S. immigration agencies. These 'visa overstay' cases present a vulnerability for the homeland security enterprise. U.S. immigration enforcement agencies need to identify, apprehend, and remove foreign nationals who have overstayed their visas to address this issue. Identification of these subjects can be through biographical or biometric means. Current efforts to identify overstay violators rely mostly upon biographical data transmitted to enforcement agencies by third parties. Overstay violators are not normally targeted for apprehension and removal unless they present a threat to national security or public safety. Biometric exit system proponents have argued that the identification of violators through biometric means presents a faster, more efficient (albeit possibly expensive) method to determine who has overstayed their visas. These proponents also indicate that such a system will have an impact on the number of overstay violation cases each year. To date, this exit system has not been implemented at the U.S. border despite congressional mandates to do so. This thesis examines current visa overstay enforcement policies, evaluates the impacts of a biometric exit system, and makes policy recommendations for visa overstay enforcement efforts."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Spina, Michael L.
2018-12
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Overstays: The Lesser-Known Illegal Immigration Issue
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis investigates the issue of 'overstays,' or individuals who remain in the United States after the legal length of admission has expired, and asks, 'How can the U.S. government develop a policy to reduce the number of people who overstay their legal length of admission?' A review of government reports, congressional testimony, agency documentation, and the relevant laws was conducted to shed light on this persistent and growing issue. This thesis explored the lack of information, resources, and consistency in dealing with overstays within the nation's immigration system. The thesis proposes two recommendations to address this issue: the first, which assumes no additional resources or support, and a second, more ambitious, one that requires changes in public perception, enforcement, and legislation."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Heslin, Brian D.
2018-12
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Privacy in Plain Sight: Fourth Amendment Considerations for the Collection, Retention, and Use of Data by Law Enforcement in Public Places
From the thesis abstract: "Cities around the globe are implementing technology that provides an interactive experience for their citizens in open spaces. Transportation, infrastructure, parking, and lighting are all part of a 'smart city.' Cameras, drones, facial recognition, kiosks, and geofencing are built into the platform as well; however, the latter brings up privacy concerns as they pertain to government surveillance. This thesis examines how data collected using the open-source methods of smart city technology can be used by law enforcement under the Fourth Amendment, which protects citizens from government intrusion. The Fourth Amendment has been the litmus test for what constitutes a search and seizure, and with a properly executed warrant or a subpoena, information can be used by law enforcement. This thesis explores whether the Fourth Amendment can withstand the test of technology, whereby data collected by a city can be used by law enforcement to solve crimes that occur in plain sight. This thesis follows the historical path of Fourth Amendment case law since the inception of technology and recognizes that legislation and policy should be enacted to identify the owner of the data collected and determine how long it should be maintained. Rather than easily accessing data, law enforcement may be required to show reasonable suspicion and obtain a warrant."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Ziman, Kristen
2018-12
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Problem of Definition: Considerations for Recategorizing Domestic Terrorists
From the thesis Abstract: "In the past five years, the United States has seen a noticeable increase in racially, ethnically motivated violent extremist (REMVE) activity. By examining the relevance of defining terrorism as international or domestic, this thesis identifies antiquated assumptions that have hindered the U.S. federal approach to investigating and prosecuting REMVE organizations. It also explores whether U.S. legal and judicial frameworks are adaptive enough to address emerging REMVE trends and how the homeland security enterprise can better mitigate and respond to the threat. Using case study analysis to explore the Atomwaffen Division and the Base--two accelerationist, white, ethno-nationalist groups with transnational ties--the thesis documents the emerging trend of REMVE actors, their ideology and motivation, and the digital and transnational context of their activity. The thesis also delves into the ways the First and Fourth Amendments shape the investigation and prosecution of violent extremists, and how their application to domestic and international terrorism varies, as defined in 18 U.S.C. §2331. Homegrown violent extremist organizations can no longer be automatically classified as domestic terrorists. In cases where transnational links exist, the homeland security enterprise should leverage the same tools that have been applied to international terrorist threats such as al-Qaida."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Jones, Jaime
2021-03
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Stepping Out of the Shadows: Leveraging the Community to Stop the Sexual Exploitation of Minors
From the thesis Abstract: "The online transmission of child pornography has exploded in recent years, and law enforcement does not have the resources to stop it. This thesis seeks to determine the advantages and disadvantages of using citizen volunteers to help investigate child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Specifically, it investigates whether incorporating civilians into certain aspects of CSAM investigations could assist law enforcement in filling gaps in resources needed to ensure all recovered images be fully investigated in less time. To test the hypothesis that creating opportunities for civilians to assist law enforcement will positively impact law enforcement's ability to investigate CSAM offenses, this thesis uses policy analysis to compare three policyoption alternatives. The results confirm the hypothesis by demonstrating that incorporating skilled civilian volunteers into a national volunteer program is an effective option to assist law enforcement in CSAM investigations. These results suggest law enforcement and policy makers should establish a national volunteer program that allows skilled volunteers to assist law enforcement agencies around the nation in certain time-consuming or technically complex aspects of investigations. Doing so opens up resources to law enforcement agencies and provides much-needed assistance to investigators while allowing volunteers meaningful opportunities to use their skills and time to combat the sexual exploitation of children."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Yerkes, Elisabeth
2021-03
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Policing the Aerotropolis: A Model for Securing the Nation's Large Airports
From the thesis Abstract: "As aviation continues to be the fastest and most efficient form of global transportation, airports across the country continue to see exponential growth in size and population. This expansion means airports will remain a high-value target to crime and terrorism. The need to protect the airport environment against these threats is essential. The responsibility of policing the nation's major airports is unique and full of challenges. Airport police must balance the requirements of providing security to a critical infrastructure and highly transient population, with the needs of protecting the surrounding businesses and commercial developments around the airport. This research answers the question of whether traditional policing models are effective in protecting and serving this unique environment or if a new model should be adapted to suit the needs of policing the aerotropolis better. Research findings, combined with a comparative analysis of policing methods at major U.S. airports, show that a dedicated, highly proactive, and customer-oriented police force is vital in ensuring the nation's large airports and the aviation industry continue to play a vital role in the world economy."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Cousins, Joshua T.
2021-03
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Security Cooperation with Cuba: The Impact of Normalization on the Coast Guard's Relationship with the Cuban Border Guard
From the thesis Abstract: "This research examines the Coast Guard's maritime security relationship with the Cuban Border Guard--before, during, and after normalization--through a qualitative case study comparison of five distinct mission areas: drug interdiction, migrant interdiction, search and rescue, marine environmental protection, and port security. By reviewing the aftereffects of the Trump administration's rollback of U.S.-Cuba policy, specifically the impact on the Coast Guard-Cuban Border Guard security relationship, it is possible to recognize that such a policy reversal does not serve the national security interests of the United States. The operational focus of the Coast Guard's maritime security cooperation with the Cuban Border Guard, combined with measured growth in mission areas of mutual concern, are key factors in the long-term success of this important relationship. With no significant concentration of bilateral security exchanges since 2018, the United States should take steps to reinvigorate law enforcement cooperation with Cuban authorities in areas such as counternarcotics, illegal migration, counterterrorism, and mass rescue operations."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Cromwell, Derek
2021-03
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Crowd Machine: Leveraging Emergent Crowd Behavior in Policy and Response
From the thesis Abstract: "All across the country, officials and planners of the first-responder community plan for events of various types, yet their plans do not adequately account for crowd behavior when the event is interrupted by an act of violence that turns into a mass-casualty incident, or a 'focus event.' This research contests early crowd psychology studies and presents the contemporary social identity theory, elaborated social identity model, and emergence model as better lenses for crowd behavior in responding to a focus event. Case studies of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing and the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting are used to analyze crowds that experienced focus events through the perspective of complex adaptive systems. A new framework that incorporates the elements of stress, panic, chaos, and priming is then presented to assist officials and planners with planning for crowds experiencing a focus event, with the aim of leveraging crowd emergence. The new framework presented in this research leads to a set of actionable recommendations for policymakers and planners. Ultimately, this thesis challenges officials and planners of the first-responder community to evaluate crowds as complex adaptive systems and explore the ability to leverage crowds for a more effective response."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Cooper, Craig M.
2021-03
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Case for Affirming Diversity: Reflective Recruitment That Represents the Community Served
From the thesis Abstract: "Fitchburg Fire Department's (FFD) membership today is not diverse, primarily because the department has experienced limited success in recruiting motivated, diverse firefighter candidates. This thesis poses the following research questions: What can be done to identify current barriers that discourage or hamper reflective recruitment in FFD? And what can be done to overcome recruitment obstacles? The research relied on a focus group composed of Fitchburg-area civic leaders who could share a historical perspective, discuss operational and systematic bias, and consider solutions through reflective recruitment and targeted community outreach. The group's recommendations were incorporated into a plan that involved short-, medium-, and long-term recruitment outreach and recruitment goals over a two-year timeline. The group identified potential school programs, racially centric groups, and current FFD membership that can positively influence prospective firefighter candidates. Recognizing that professional standards need not be compromised in the pursuit of a more representative workforce, the focus group recommended intentional acts of inclusion to stimulate occupational and organizational interest. This thesis finds that if FFD aims to recruit a workforce that resembles the community served, inclusivity will depend largely on targeted neighborhood outreach, a form of affirmative action."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Pulvermacher, Joseph J.
2021-03
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Saving Our Own: Maximizing CBRN Urban Search and Rescue Capabilities to Support Civil Authorities
From the thesis Abstract: "This thesis seeks to determine how the Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) Response Enterprise's urban search and rescue (US&R) elements can better accomplish the Department of Defense's (DOD) Defense Support of Civil Authorities mission following a domestic nuclear attack. To this end, it poses the following research question: How can the DOD maximize the employment of existing CBRN Response Enterprise US&R capabilities to support civil authority-directed lifesaving efforts following a domestic nuclear detonation? Research interviews were conducted with federal and local civil US&R authorities that inquired about their expectations of enterprise US&R elements after a nuclear detonation. Additionally, an analysis was conducted of the enterprise's ability to overcome the challenges presented by post-nuclear detonation environments when delivering this support. It was discovered that federal civil US&R authorities intend to use the CBRN Response Enterprise's US&R elements as force multipliers, while local authorities have more ambiguous expectations since they receive far less exposure to the enterprise's US&R capabilities. Furthermore, to improve the delivery of life-saving aid, the enterprise should enhance its capabilities to address the threat of fire and added challenges to the performance of US&R skills incurred by post-nuclear detonation environments."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Wagner, Robert T.
2021-03
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I've Got My AI on You: Artificial Intelligence in the Law Enforcement Domain
From the thesis Abstract: "Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems provide a unique problem for users in the law enforcement domain. On one hand, AI systems provide an opportunity for optimizations and faster workflows, especially in the environment of growing data. On the other hand if left unchecked, AI systems have the potential to negatively affect the community served by law enforcement. This research focuses on three types of AI systems currently used by law enforcement: facial recognition, predictive risk assessments, and predictive policing. By looking at these three types of AI systems, this research attempts to evaluate the effectiveness of the technology while maintaining the privacy, fairness, transparency, and accountability expected by the public. These three case studies show how AI systems can have a negative impact on individuals identified via AI systems and the need for further research into effective measures to regulate the technology. Additionally, the European Union is currently working on potential frameworks for responsible implementation of AI systems, which provide a template for future efforts in the United States."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Baker, Eric M.
2021-03
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If You Love Them, Let Them Go: A Comparative Analysis of Rotational Programs and Recommendations for the Homeland Security Enterprise
From the thesis Abstract: "Rotational programs--whereby employees temporarily work within a different part of an organization to gain new skills and knowledge--have become the rage across the country. Benefits of these programs in the private sector include continual learning, agility in job skills, and a 'try before you buy' approach to job satisfaction for both the employee and employer. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented two rotational programs; however, these initiatives are in the early stages of implementation, and their effectiveness remains unclear. To identify opportunities for optimization, this thesis draws upon the work of Campion and Griffiths to analyze case studies from mature federal rotational programs within the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community and determines the benefits and challenges of each. Based on these findings, it investigates to what degree DHS can leverage best practices from these programs to strengthen its workforce, augment the effectiveness of the program design, and fulfill the mission of the programs. Ultimately, DHS has opportunities to improve on key elements, such as inclusivity, encouraging participation through credits and incentives, ensuring a strong foundation for the program, and developing a continual review process through metrics, data collection, and review."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Stone, Marcie
2021-03
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In the Line of Fire: Safeguarding America's Election Security
From the thesis Abstract: "The U.S. electoral system and democracy are under continued attack by foreign adversaries and political extremists intent on manipulating U.S. elections. Election officials and homeland security stakeholders must search for alternative methods to help strengthen the resiliency of the system. The question then becomes: How can red teaming and systems thinking be applied to reinforce the integrity of the U.S. electoral system? The goal is to analyze the system in its entirety to ensure the system in place can support a free and fair election and withstand an attack from an adversary. This research studies how the rapid implementation of universal mail-in voting created the opportunity for political activists to cast doubt on the validity of the election results. By applying systems thinking to the implementation of mail-in voting, election officials would have identified the additional challenges in advance and employed security protocols and alternative options to mitigate potential threats. To test security protocols in place, stakeholders should employ red teaming vulnerability probes. The vulnerability probes will assist in determining how effective the protocols are and if alternatives need to be established. Stakeholders should consider employing the use of systems thinking and red teaming to identify vulnerabilities and reinforce the integrity of the U.S. electoral system."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Hughes, Laura A.
2021-03
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Why We Serve: Public Service Motivation and What the USCIS Mission Means to Its Workforce
From the thesis Abstract: "Why do people choose to serve with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)? How has USCIS articulated its mission and organizational values since its creation? What mission values do employees believe in versus what USCIS asks of them? This thesis uses public service motivation (PSM) theory and value congruence theory to interpret the alignment of USCIS employee value perceptions with organizational values from 2015 to 2020. An examination of the USCIS mission from 2003 to 2020 equips the reader with a comprehensive picture of its evolution. A qualitative analysis of USCIS employee motivational survey responses captured from 2015 to 2020 provides visibility into employee perceptions of 'why we serve.' The PSM themes found within employee responses--compassionate humanitarian, public interest servant, upholder and influencer of policy, self-sacrificing public servant--provide insight into employee role perceptions. Research findings found a strong fit between organization and employee before 2018. After a substantial change in USCIS mission values in 2018, the fit between the compassionate humanitarian and the organization wanes. However, other PSM values emerge in employee PSM values, suggesting that the organizational storyline may influence individual perception over time. A call for further research is encouraged for sense-making exercises with the Cynefin framework, post-2020 employee PSM perceptions, and employee retention and organizational fit."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Witt, Katie
2021-03
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Normalizing Cybersecurity: Improving Cyber Incident Response with the Incident Command System
From the thesis Abstract: "In 2018, the Colorado Department of Transportation was hit with a ransomware attack that resulted in the first-ever state emergency declaration for a cyber attack. Cyber attacks against the nation and its infrastructure are expected to increase, yet no extensive research exists on the United States' designated response framework for them. This thesis investigated the application of the Incident Command System (ICS) in significant cyber incidents and how the system may be improved for these events. A mixed method study consisting of case studies, senior leader interviews, and a quantitative survey was used to evaluate ICS specific to the framework's eight core concepts. The research includes findings on variables that impact the effectiveness of response frameworks in cyber events. Recommendations are made to improve cyber response."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Hanson, Darin T.
2021-03
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Crisis of Legitimacy After Police-Related Civilian Deaths: Applying the Cynefin Framework to Legitimacy-Developing Policies
From the thesis Abstract: "Police-related civilian deaths, caused by direct force or occurring during custody, pose one of the central challenges to police legitimacy. This thesis studied five police departments that experienced such a crisis of legitimacy, as evidenced by either deadly retaliatory violence against police or substantial civil unrest in response. Specifically, this thesis examined how each agency implemented expert-recommended legitimacy-developing policies before and in response to the challenge of these deaths. This thesis then applied the Cynefin framework to these implementations, revealing which domains better conform to expert recommendations and sustain legitimacy policies in the wake of a crisis. This research recommends and provides a method for police leaders to leverage the Cynefin framework to assess their legitimacy policy implementations."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Espinoza, Stephen
2021-03
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Realizing Resilience: A Study of Definition, Indicators, and Operationalization
From the thesis Abstract: "Resilience is a term ubiquitously used to gauge how communities fare during and following disasters. Academics and practitioners see resilience as a critical driver of a community's success or failure in recovering or bouncing back from disasters. This thesis aims to provide insight into improving resilience by bridging how it is studied in theory and practiced in the field. This thesis examines resilience in the literature and presents four case studies, which focus on resilience governance and social, physical, and economic resilience indicators. The findings of this thesis show the necessity of community cohesion in growing a community's resilience. The cases also show the benefit of clear resilience governance frameworks rooted in diverse, equitable leadership that represents the communities served. Moreover, fostering individual resilience contributes to a community's resilience level. Finally, the term resilience needs both reconceptualizing and reimagining in a way that better aligns with current-day challenges."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Raycroft, Jill
2021-03
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Strategic Communications and the Department of Homeland Security: Immigration Policies, Mixed Messaging, and Information Fratricide
From the thesis Abstract: "Under President Trump, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rolled out the controversial parent-child separation policy, also known as zero tolerance, and the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) program in 2018-19. How DHS conducts strategic communications about such controversial policies is directly related to public and stakeholder perception of these policies. A newly developed stakeholder-centric measurement and evaluation model used to evaluate these two policy case studies demonstrates that Trump's DHS used messaging which was, at times, inconsistent and even contradictory. While communications on MPP showed an evolution in DHS's ability to successfully engage in strategic communications related to these enforcement efforts, the parent-child separation policy represents the prototypical example of information fratricide. The research methodology adopts an outsider viewpoint and employs a media content analysis of high-level public communications of DHS officials. Identification and future use of DHS's top communications strengths, as displayed in these sample communications, can lead to more effective strategic communications and improved stakeholder engagement. The thesis concludes with generalized recommendations for future communications policy within DHS based on lessons learned from this thesis research."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Graham, Jonathan M.
2021-03
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Policing for the 22nd Century: A Complexity Theory-Based Approach
From the thesis Abstract: "Although many alternatives to the standard model of policing have been proposed, none of them meaningfully engages with the massive social and technological changes that have occurred since the mid-20th century. This thesis asks if complexity theory can serve as a theoretical foundation for a new model of policing. Literature on complexity, complex adaptive systems, and network theory is examined and finds that observed behavior of street robberies in Washington, DC, can be understood as a complex adaptive system. This thesis concludes that it is vital to recognize that the United States is transitioning into an informational, network-based society increasingly governed by nonlinear, dynamic processes. It also concludes that the present dissatisfaction with the state of policing is due to its institutional misalignment with those social dynamics. Several recommendations are offered on how to educate and structure police agencies to function effectively in complex environments."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Hollan, Brian T.
2021-03
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Monitoring the Unpredictable: What Can Law Enforcement Do to Track Potential Active Shooters?
From the thesis Abstract: "Since the late 1990s, few incidents have captured the national spotlight more than active shooter events. These events are a significant concern to the public, and as questions arise surrounding these incidents, the focus often turns to law enforcement and its ability to protect the public. Often, law enforcement's response to inquiries surrounding prevention strategies concludes with officials explaining that they did everything possible to prevent the attack. This thesis analyzes the history of active shooter response and examines why law enforcement focuses more on response management than on prevention strategies. The project identifies issues when law enforcement, regardless of size or allocated resources, fails to establish a plan to track and monitor potential active shooter threats. Comparing four case studies--the Marjory Stoneman Douglas school shooting, Virginia Tech incident, Odessa-Midland attack, and the 1 October Las Vegas mass shooting--the research aims to identify investigative gaps that may have helped prevent the attacks. It categorizes the probability of preventing attacks based on available resources to law enforcement. The conclusion points to gaps with information sharing, planning, and resource allocation that could help agencies prepare for any future attacks."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Reyna, Robert A.
2021-03
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Protecting America's High Ground: A Public-Private Response to Space Debris
From the thesis Abstract: "The United States is reliant on the capabilities provided by satellite technology for nearly every facet of society. A sustained loss of satellite capabilities due to any service outages will have a significant negative impact on the nation's homeland security. The areas affected include communication, financial transactions, intelligence gathering, internet access, and weather surveillance. Existing domestic and international policy has been insufficient in managing debris growth. The removal of large debris from congested orbits through active debris removal (ADR) is now necessary to prevent future collision events that will damage or destroy operational satellites that may possibly render certain regions of space unusable for generations. To safeguard its satellites and critical services they provide to homeland security, the United States should develop a domestic debris removal program using the established public-private partnership model that NASA has leveraged over the previous 15 years. This model has reduced developments costs and risks of schedule delays, and also stimulates growth in the private space sector and creates additional tax revenues. Furthermore, the commercial sector possesses knowledge and experience in the field of on-orbit servicing, a field with similar technical challenges to debris removal that can provide a foundation for the development of ADR systems. The United States must begin remediation by partnering with the private sector."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Repair, Christopher W.
2021-06
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United States Coast Guard and Spontaneous Volunteers: Collaboration or Chaos During Disaster Response
From the thesis Abstract: "Spontaneous volunteers who conduct search and rescue (SAR) in the aftermath of major disasters are changing the emergency management landscape. This thesis explores ways in which the United States Coast Guard (USCG) could better engage organized spontaneous volunteers (OSV) who conduct maritime SAR during hurricane response operations. The research involves three exploratory case studies. In each case study, the organizational response of both the USCG and OSVs was examined according to the Disaster Research Center's four-fold typology of organized responses to disasters. The analysis identified specific factors of the USCG's organizational response that affected OSV engagement. Recommendations are made for the USCG to take on new or non-regular SAR tasks and to develop new organizational structures to respond effectively to maritime disasters. New organizational structures should also include OSV groups if the USCG desires to increase engagement during future hurricane response operations."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Gilbert, Joshua R.
2021-06
