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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' Effort to Identify Terrorism Threats: Is Social Media Intelligence (SOCMINT) the Next Tool?
From the Thesis Abstract: "Terrorists use the internet to facilitate every aspect of their nefarious activity. This use creates a novel research question. To what degree can an open-source social media intelligence (SOCMINT) gathering and analysis capability assist U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in accomplishing its homeland security mission? The critics of SOCMINT argue it is an unnecessary, problematic, and ill-advised effort based on efficacy, data management, and constitutional grounds. Therefore, the thesis explores the past efforts, necessity, and efficacy of open-source SOCMINT in identifying potential fraud, public safety, and/or national security concerns (threats) from immigrants seeking immigration benefits. The research consists of qualitatively examining issue rhetoric--the debate and discussion--between the critics and supporters of SOCMINT. The Profiles of Individual Radicalization in the United States dataset provides a quantitative, evidence-grounded means to gain insight on radicalized immigrants' use of the internet and social media in plotting attacks and the potential for threat detection. The research demonstrates threats among immigration benefit seekers exist, and that SOCMINT is a viable means to identify and mitigate the threats. The thesis concludes the propositions for SOCMINT are valid and the critics' objections should not impede the effort. The thesis recommends USCIS continue SOCMINT, ensuring the endeavor observes a balance between security and liberty."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Thompson, Erik M.
2019-12
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Continuity and Transformation in the United States' Nuclear Posture
From the Thesis Abstract: "This thesis created a matrix to compare the four post-Cold War Nuclear Posture Reviews (NPRs) published by the United States Department of Defense. Side-by-side comparison of these white papers revealed remarkable trends in U.S. nuclear policy. The matrix began by assigning themes within NPRs to paradigms common to international relations research. These paradigms are declaratory policy, procurement policy, employment policy, and deployment policy. This thesis began by analyzing the history of NPRs and reactions to them in the scholarly and international communities. Next, it created an impartial summary of the identified themes as they are tracked through the NPRs. This thesis then analyzed and critiqued the trends in nuclear policy based on the matrix, scholarly reactions to NPRs, and other research related to U.S. force structure and the worldwide threat environment such as the economic interdependence between the United States and China and how it affects the two countries' relationship. Some policy trends followed party lines; others did not. Some were erratic and others were more predictable. The value of these trends validates some concerns and disproves others with regard to the U.S. nuclear posture and the worldwide threat environment. The thesis concluded that the world is a safer place with nuclear weapons, and although a world free of nuclear weapons is a responsible goal for future policymakers, it is simply not practical for the foreseeable future."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Metz, Andrew D.
2019-12
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Digital Infrastructure's Connection Between Citizens and the Cultivation of Homeland Security Terrain
From the Thesis Abstract: "The purpose of this research is to investigate the shift of the homeland security landscape in response to rapid urbanization and integration of technology in cities. Governments and municipalities are rushing toward the utilization of advanced technologies to solve challenges dealing with urban expansion and the increase of high-tech threats. Privacy concerns and vulnerabilities in associated 'smart city' design are becoming apparent and related to the adoption of new security measures. This thesis answers the question: How will the transformation of Homeland Security terrain, influenced by smart city infrastructure, affect how governments deliver services and security to citizens? The effects are revealed through the use of a comparative analysis between Singapore and Denmark, highlighting the governmental composition, social dynamics and policy approaches involved with smart city development. The comparison discloses that the effectiveness and implementation of a smart city design in part depends on the level of collaboration, training, and policy formulation in security planning that occurs among public-private, academic and citizen stakeholders. The results suggest that stakeholders should be involved from the beginning in smart city planning. Their initial involvement allows for security and privacy issues to be mitigated beforehand. It also encourages the public's trust of government services that are delivered in an advanced technological city environment."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Valero, Noah R.
2019-12
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Measuring the Effectiveness of Surveillance Technology at the U.S. Southern Border
From the Thesis Abstract: "The United States' investment in southern border security has consistently been a topic of discussion regarding technological improvements and measurements of effectiveness. There have been multiple failed programs designed to combine infrastructure, personnel, and technology, ranging from the America's Shield Initiative (ASI) to the Secure Borders Initiative Network (SBInet). These efforts have resulted in billions of dollars of wasted funding. The latest initiative, named the Southwest Border Technology Plan, claims to use lessons learned from previous failures and focuses on integrating systems tailored to individual sectors of the border. A related issue is the use of apprehension rates and other passive metrics as the measures of effectiveness for the security of the southern border, continuing the historical inconsistency of inaccurate reporting methods. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recognized the problem of inadequate measurement and is developing new methods with the assistance of improved data captured with biometric systems; however, the issue of inaccurate reporting remains. An alternate and more active option to consider for measuring security effectiveness is red teaming. This thesis explores the following questions: what technologies are currently utilized for border security and how can their effectiveness be measured? And, can red teaming be used to improve on existing measures of effectiveness?"
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Hudspeth, Robert A.
2019-12
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Homeland Human Security: A New Framework for America's Approach to Homeland Security?
From the Thesis Abstract: "The current understanding of the concept of homeland security in the United States--measures taken to protect the United States from terrorist attacks and to recover from natural disasters--has resulted in a practical approach that largely ignores many threats to the security of the average American. A deeper analysis of the insecurities faced by the American people reveals that the security of the homeland is a complex system of interconnected varieties of security including food, health, personal, economic, environmental, community, and political. This thesis suggests an alternate approach to homeland security based on the human security framework--a non-traditional approach to understanding security that seeks to shift the referent object of security from the state to the individual and ensure a world where the individual is free from fear, free from want, and free to live in dignity. This research explored the nexus of homeland security and human security by examining the development of the concept of homeland security, identifying the shortcomings of the current approach, and outlining the applicability of the human security framework to the understanding and practice of homeland security. This thesis finds that an approach to homeland security based on the steps for applying the human security framework is not only plausible, but would result in overall increased security for the American people."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Schiavone, Michael V.
2019-12
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Biothreat Response: Local Emergency Response Efforts for Suspicious and Unknown Substances
From the Thesis Abstract: "In 2001, the United States faced two attacks that ultimately changed how emergency responders mitigate and recover from terrorism events: the devastating attacks of 9/11 and a case known as Amerithrax, in which letters tainted with anthrax were mailed to media outlets and politicians. While the nation was initially unprepared to take on a biological weapon of mass destruction such as anthrax, government agencies and first responders collaborated to overcome this silent adversary, and the FBI closed its Amerithrax investigation in 2010. This thesis presents a historical analysis of Amerithrax to assess how the federal and state resources that were developed with this case have affected the nation's preparedness for future weapons-of-mass-destruction attacks with a biological nexus. The analysis shows that, as a result of Amerithrax, response agencies adopted laws and procedures to standardize equipment, training, investigative methods, and emergency preparedness and response efforts. Furthermore, the thesis analyzes policies of local law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical response teams, showing that local decision-makers have failed to take the same posture as their state and federal partners, which weakens their response capabilities. Finally, the thesis compares efforts in the United States to efforts of foreign governments and provides recommendations to help local agencies respond more successfully to cases involving suspicious and unknown substances."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Dowdell, Craig S.
2019-12
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Department of Defense Counterdrug Mission: Can the Effectiveness Be Measured?
From the Thesis Abstract: "For the last 30 years, the Department of Defense (DoD) has been asked in various ways to measure the effectiveness of the DoD counterdrug mission. In this thesis, I advance the idea of using the drug purity data as the best and only stand-alone metric to determine if drug interdiction efforts are reducing the amount of illicit drugs available in the United States. I also present a cost-benefit equation the DoD can utilize to determine the cost effectiveness of the counterdrug mission. The intangible benefits and unintended consequences of the DoD counterdrug mission are relayed and include developing partner nation relations and building partner capacity, positive and negative impacts on military readiness, and promoting the incorrect idea that the military can and should be used to solve any national problem. I conclude that the DoD cannot measure the outcomes of the counterdrug mission; however, it can combine counterdrug mission data already collected with key performance indicators inside of a pattern and trend methodology to better correlate the DoD counterdrug mission and supply-side outcome goals."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Berry, Brian F.
2019-12
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Assessing the Potential Value of Autonomous Vehicles in Emergency Medical Services Using the Knowledge Value Added Methodology
From the Thesis Abstract: "Directors and fire chiefs throughout the emergency services are facing staffing shortages as emergency medical technicians and paramedics migrate to higher-paying, less-hazardous jobs in the medical field or emergency management environment. These shortages are compounded by a continually increasing service demand. This research compares the current 'As Is' model in the multi-tiered, fire-based, advanced-life-support emergency medical system with the 'To Be' model, which incorporates autonomous vehicle technologies. The two models were assessed using a knowledge value added (KVA) methodology to determine whether autonomous technology would increase productivity and add value by decreasing unit workload and increasing system capacity. The 'As Is' model showed a return on knowledge (ROK) across all medical-based subprocesses but an inverse relationship between ROK and subprocess time, meaning that ROK drops when responders perform non-medical tasks and worsens the longer a subprocess takes. Moreover, driving is a poor use of the employee's overall knowledge as ROK for driver subprocesses was as low as 38 percent during long transport times. The 'To Be' model showed superior ROK across all variations of driver and most medical subprocesses, and all driver subprocesses showed exponential increases in ROK. This thesis finds that increased transport times and call volumes increase ROK in the 'To Be' model, indicating a quantifiable value-add from autonomous technology."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Hillhouse, Joseph S.
2019-12
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From Golden Handcuffs to Pig Iron: Projecting Pension Reform's Impact on the Homeland Security Enterprise
From the Thesis Abstract: "The chronic underfunding of numerous public pensions, along with historic capital-market setbacks, has created a public pension debt crisis throughout much of the nation. The depth of this crisis makes pension reform inevitable, and that reform will transform the nature of public-servant compensation in the coming decades. This thesis explores the impact pension reform will have on the effectiveness of public-sector organizations with homeland security missions. To approach this issue, this thesis draws on existing academic literature from a wide range of disciplines, including economics, public administration, organizational behavior, sociology, and social psychology. Emerging from the research is a clear recognition that pension reform will change employee behavior, organizational culture, and the market for human capital through second- and third-order effects. Exactly how such change will play out is not so clear. The thesis turns to scenario-planning techniques to synthesize the diverse literature and provide plausible responses to the question of what pension reform's impact will be within the homeland security domain. The thesis offers three different potential outcomes and recommends more robust, collaborative scenario-planning initiatives for which the thesis itself provides a useful launching pad."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Waldman, Jeffrey H.
2019-12
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Reforming U.S. Immigration Policy: A Case for Merit-Based Immigration?
From the Thesis Abstract: "The thesis investigates how U.S. national interests have been defined in the country's immigration policy, and whether the current policy, which prioritizes family-based immigration, supports those interests. The Donald J. Trump administration has looked to Canada's points-based system, which has brought highly skilled and educated immigrants into the country. Through a comparative analysis of Canada's and the United States' immigration policies, this research provides perspective on whether screening immigrants is an effective way to meet a country's national interests, particularly economic interests, and whether other factors must be considered for immigration policies. Ultimately, this thesis found that current U.S. immigration policies do not best serve national interests. This is not because the U.S. prioritizes family-based immigration but rather because the stagnant immigration policy does not respond to the changing needs of the country. Common-sense immigration reform requires more than looking to foreign partners for solutions; it requires us to review current practices and identify ways to enhance existing policies."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Garza, Daisy
2019-12
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Plan Bee--Understanding Threats to the Honey Bee Population and Examining Strategies to Promote and Protect Pollinators
From the Thesis Abstract: "In the early 2000s, a series of pollinator colonies, including honey bee colonies, collapsed--an early warning of a serious threat to our nation's environmental, economic, and food security. Two national initiatives (the creation of the White House Pollinator Health Task Force in 2014 and the subsequent implementation of a national strategy to promote pollinator health in 2015) demonstrate that the government is serious about improving pollinator health. This thesis seeks to determine if pollinator health is a homeland security issue, and reviews policies in the United States and the European Union that protect the health of pollinators. These topics are explored through a comparative policy analysis centered on four considerations: a holistic focus on all pollinators, pesticide regulation, the inclusion of regional plans in national policy, and climate change. Research indicates that decisive governance in the quest for pollinator health is essential for national security. This thesis offers a limited scope that must be enhanced to attain a more robust and resilient national pollinator plan and to improve environmental, economic, and food security in the United States."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Pfrogner, Mildred G.
2019-12
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Reforming the Bank Secrecy Act to Address Emerging Technology and Prevent Illicit Financing
From the Thesis Abstract: "The Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) was enacted by Congress to prevent criminals from hiding or laundering their illicit gains through the U.S. banking system. Over the years, criminals continue to exploit the financial system by moving illegal money using new technology. Lawmakers should amend the age-old BSA to address monetary thresholds of currency transaction reports and suspicious activity reports, along with addressing emerging financial technology (Fintech). In dealing with these issues, a delicate balance exists between increasing regulation to prevent crime and hindering the growth of innovation and customer convenience, along with privacy concerns. This thesis provides policy analysis and proposals for legislative and technological improvements to financial fraud detection. Furthermore, policy leaders will have a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and consequences of specific policy actions. This thesis concludes with policy recommendations of the BSA to include increasing the currency transaction report from $10,000 to $60,000 along with incorporating the controversial beneficial ownership provision. Last, add a minimum standard for a client opening financial accounts, increase know-your-customer requirements, and regulate peer-to-peer devices. As criminal organizations continue to move money throughout the U.S. financial services sector, legislators should amend the BSA to address these areas of concern to ensure financial stability and integrity."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Bradstreet, Shawn M.
2019-12
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Stopping the Next Attack: How to Gain Intelligence from Suspects Detained Overseas
From the Thesis Abstract: "The United States often faces two competing choices when a terrorist is captured overseas: bring the person back to the United States immediately to face trial, or hold the person in military detention, where prosecutions are difficult and slow-moving. This thesis investigates which policy best allows the United States to reduce the threat posed by a terrorist captured overseas while maintaining the country's credibility. Recognizing the principal importance of preserving life and preventing future attacks after the detention of a suspected terrorist, this thesis used a policy options analysis method to determine which one of three approaches is best for handling terror suspects captured overseas: law of war detention, two-step intelligence and law enforcement interrogations, or arrest and extradition. The research determined that no single policy best allows the United States to reduce the threat posed by a terrorist captured overseas, takes into account the need to obtain information about looming attacks, preserves the opportunity for prosecution, and maintains the credibility of the United States. This thesis recommends the continued use of law of war detention for foreign fighters and recommends that two-step intelligence and law enforcement interrogations remain a viable option for terrorists captured overseas."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Fitzgerald, James M.
2019-12
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'I Forgot I Had That .38 in My Bag': How Memory Failure Contributes to Passengers Carrying Firearms and Other Prohibited Items to Security Screening Checkpoints
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) discoveries of firearms at U.S. security screening
checkpoints have increased significantly in recent years. In 2008, TSA discovered 926 firearms, and in
2018, 4239. When questioned, passengers commonly state they "forgot" about the firearm. Following a
qualitative research design, this investigation analyzed four cases from publicly available, open-source
internet posts by individuals who were detained or arrested at security screening checkpoints. Through case
analysis, four common themes emerged. Passengers 1) experienced a prospective memory failure; 2) were
frequent flyers; 3) had recently experienced interruptions; and 4) were in a hurry. This thesis identifies
factors that contribute to memory failures, such as interruptions, multitasking, and delaying actions.
Mitigating concepts and strategies from cognitive psychology are explored, specifically, use of the Dynamic
Multiprocess Framework; the creation of salient, distinctive, and unfamiliar reminders; encouragement of
prompt action; employing mnemonics as reminding devices; inducing deeper levels of processing; and
leveraging existing technologies. Concepts and strategies that discourage prospective memory failure are
tested through a thought experiment designed to clarify and modify the mitigating concepts and strategies
recommended.
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Yi, Suk H.
2019-12
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21st Century and No Emancipation in Sight: Is the U.S. Anti-Slavery Framework Adequate?
From the Thesis Abstract: "Modern slavery, commonly referred to as human trafficking, is one of the highest sources of transnational organized criminal revenue generated from private economy slavery and state-imposed forced labor, with the bulk of known profits coming from sex exploitation. Second only to drug trafficking, modern slavery is the source of major global commerce. It also can serve as an open recruitment pool for combatants, brides, and sex slaves by extremist groups. Modern slavery, including child forced labor, is interwoven into the daily lives and routines of Americans. While most U.S. law enforcement and homeland security activity focuses on the traditional sex industry, there are far more victims of forced labor and forced marriage across the globe. The questions researched are: (1) What is the current U.S. counter-slavery framework? (2) Can an economic approach garner effective results? (3) Can models employed by other countries effectively address modern slavery? This thesis explores some of the laws, regulations, policies, and available data to demonstrate that human trafficking is a serious national and homeland security problem. Looking primarily at the commercial, supply chain side of human trafficking, this paper demonstrates that there is more in the realm of modern slavery than the degradation of its victims. Some recommendations are offered to enhance the awareness and enforcement needed to eradicate this heinous crime."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Brown, Marie-Claire
2019-12
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Countering Unmanned Aircraft Systems
From the Thesis Abstract: "Since 2015, the unmanned aircraft system (UAS) market has exploded; once an exclusively military domain, it is now also aimed at the private and public sectors. As a consequence, the availability of inexpensive UAS platforms that can be weaponized or outfitted with surveillance equipment has also become an attractive tool to terrorists and criminals. This thesis examines the question, How can local law enforcement protect their communities from UASs operated by careless hobbyists, criminals, and other nefarious actors, such as foreign and domestic terrorists? This thesis assessed the risk UASs pose to public safety, examined counter-UAS (C-UAS) technology currently available, and explored the limitations of C-UAS technology when deployed over urban areas. The thesis found that although the threat UAS platforms pose to urban areas is credible, C-UAS measures are available that local law enforcement can use to mitigate the risk. However, the thesis found that some forms of C-UAS technology have limitations when deployed over urban areas. In conclusion, the thesis recommends that local law enforcement consider UAS threats when conducting jurisdictional risk assessments, explore C-UAS technology and its limitations before procurement and implementation, and develop a C-UAS strategy that ensures measures taken are necessary, effective, and appropriate. The thesis provides a decision matrix to assist local law enforcement in their efforts to develop a C-UAS strategy."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Knight, Jason
2019-12
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Misinformation Contagion: A View Through an Epidemiological Lens
From the Thesis Abstract: "Misinformation and disinformation have increasingly been a focus of public and media scrutiny in recent years. What differentiates past forms of misinformation from present-day are the new tools of information warfare--primarily the internet, and specifically social media platforms--which have effectively weaponized intentional false narratives directed at populations most vulnerable to manipulation. Where there is a lack of diverse populations willing to think critically about important issues, the mass nudging of social and political opinion via misinformation and disinformation both widens societal divides and stimulates action (or sometimes inaction) based on a false narrative. This thesis explores how we can better understand and address the proliferation of misinformation by viewing it through an epidemiological lens. To aid in this examination, the processes of cognitive bias will be explained as they relate to interventional opportunities to prevent contraction and spread, develop immunity, and treat the disease of misinformation. Recommendations focus on building individual and herd immunity to false narratives, reducing the virulence of these messages, and making online environments less conducive to the spread of misinformation. These steps require significant commitment to policies that will be difficult to achieve in a partisan and polarized sociopolitical environment, but they are necessary to support fact-based democratic discourse and decision-making."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Fenton, Scott C.
2019-12
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Filtering a New Solution to Federal Emergency Management Through Nanotechnology
From the Thesis Abstract: "Providing clean, safe drinking water in the aftermath of a hurricane is critical for a community's survival. In 2017, Hurricane Maria struck the island of Puerto Rico, leaving communities without clean, safe drinking water for days, weeks, and in some cases months. The challenges in providing long-term clean, safe drinking water echoed through official government statements and reports, as well as the news media. Recent developments in nanotechnology show great promise as a timely, cost-effective method for providing clean, safe drinking water to impacted communities. These new technologies can to supplement current water allocation programs used by the federal government by drastically reducing the amount of time and money required to provide adequate amounts of water to individuals in affected areas following a damaging hurricane. This thesis analyzes the time, money, and feasibility considerations of adopting nanotechnology-based water filtration into current emergency management. The results show nanotechnology-based water filtration can provide a timely, cost-effective method for providing clean, safe drinking water while meeting the response demands of affected communities. Nanotechnology-based water filtration can be used to drastically alter future emergency management."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Liston, Patrick M.
2019-12
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Nuclear Deterrence and North Korea―Dissuasion or Persuasion?
From the Thesis Abstract: "The threat of nuclear war has been a possibility since the first atomic device was invented during World War II. From the end of World War II through the Cold War period, the greatest risk of nuclear proliferation was between the main superpowers at the time, the United States and the Soviet Union. U.S. nuclear deterrence doctrine promised mutually assured destruction (MAD): if the Soviets were to launch a nuclear missile at the United States, the United States would retaliate in such a way to ensure the annihilation of the Soviet Union. The global economic, social, and political environment has changed since the end of the Cold War; however, the threat of atomic warfare still exists with the emergence of the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea as a nuclear threat. This thesis explores the question of whether the doctrine developed during the Cold War is still valid: Is the U.S. nuclear strategy sufficient to deter North Korea from attacking the United States and its allies in the East Asian region? In formulating an answer to the question, the author analyzed the motivations, perceptions, and intentions of North Korea's regime from the country's formation to present day. While it is clear that the original Cold War MAD doctrine will not work for North Korea, it is recommended that the right combination of MAD elements, conventional forces, UN sanctions, and negotiations will provide a chance for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula to become a reality."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Vaughn, Steve
2019-12
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Lived and Remembered Experiences: Policing to Improve Relations with Communities of Color
From the Thesis Abstract: "Critical race theory (CRT) contends that U.S. structures and institutions have created a society in which White superiority and Black subjugation are widespread. Law enforcement--far from supporting justice--has been a primary source of oppression and marginalization of Black people. Drawing on CRT, this thesis examines the U.S. history of policing and its role in enforcing racism through policing practices. A CRT lens shows how the racialized policing of the past persists in contemporary policing. This perspective suggests that Black individuals experience trauma through encounters with the police, and the history and contemporary reality of racialized policing erode trust between the police and Black people. This thesis argues that if police officers were trained to understand the history of racialized policing and the brutality it has waged against Blacks--and the ways current policing implicitly mimic the explicit racist practices of the past--then policing could change for the better. Following the recommendations of the 21st Century Policing report, this thesis suggests that police officers need to develop 'critical empathy,' an educated, empathic awareness of the history of racialized policing and the trauma it produces, if police are to become guardians of individuals and communities of color."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Elow, Christine A.
2019-12
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Introducing Artificial Intelligence into the United States Law Enforcement Community: Learning from Foreign Law Enforcement Agencies
From the Thesis Abstract: "This research explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can be successfully incorporated into a U.S. law enforcement agency by focusing on AI's challenges and limitations. Some of those challenges include a lack of current information about AI in this setting, particularly in the United States, and legal considerations. This thesis examines how the Dubai Police have implemented AI, compares U.S. law enforcement approaches to AI with those of foreign agencies, and ultimately creates a model framework that law enforcement agencies in the United States can use to incorporate AI into their practices."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Lalley, Ana Z.
2019-12
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Rico: Analyzing the Use of Federal Law to Combat Local Gang Problems
From the Thesis Abstract: "Gangs are the main contributor to violent crime in the United States. In an attempt to combat such violent crime, the federal government has begun prosecuting street-level gangs with the federal racketeering (RICO) statutes. Although these statutes were developed to address more traditional white-collar crime, the criminalizing of ongoing racketeering activity in a criminal enterprise has successfully been used to prosecute street-level gangs. This thesis provides a review of the scholarly literature on the topic, most of which is biased and averse to the RICO statutes' use in this context. This thesis also evaluates criticisms and concerns on the topic. Federal laws and procedures were analyzed during a comparative analysis of different court systems, which revealed a distinct advantage for federal courts in the investigation and prosecution of violent street gangs. Additionally, the use of the federal racketeering statutes by three different jurisdictions--New York, New York; Detroit, Michigan; and Montebello, California--was researched and analyzed. The research found that use of the RICO statutes facilitated law enforcement initiatives that reduced violent crime and homicides in all three jurisdictions."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Ryerson, Gene W.
2019-12
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Integrating the Fire Service into the Domestic Intelligence Enterprise: A Systems Thinking Approach
From the Thesis Abstract: "In the nearly two decades since the attacks on September 11, 2001, there have been numerous attempts to improve fire service integration at virtually all levels of government. While none have succeeded in solving this wicked problem on their own, each has done a great deal to frame the problem of fire service integration while addressing key areas of integration. In merging these individual contributions into a holistic, unified effort, a pathway forward has begun to emerge. The first step in addressing the complex problem of fire service integration is to break from the traditional reductionist problem-solving methodologies commonly found in government in favor of systems thinking to bring about the desired change. Systems thinking provides a framework for understanding the complex interactions that are both internal and external to an organization. Within the systems thinking field, the congruence model best addresses the unique, complex nature of integration efforts. Beyond the central aim of integrating the fire service into the domestic intelligence enterprise, the congruence model and, more broadly, systems thinking show promise in guiding organizations that face changes or seek new and unique ways to tackle today's and tomorrow's wicked problems."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Falkner, Kyle L.
2019-12
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Training for Failure in the United States Fire Service
From the Thesis Abstract: "In 2017, the United States fire service documented 87 firefighter deaths and an estimated 58,835 firefighter injuries. To reduce these risks, the fire service invests hours of training in personnel to keep them as safe as possible. Unfortunately, these fatalities and injuries continue to happen despite the number of training hours conducted to master department standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintain state continuing education requirements. Although training will never prevent 100% of fire-related deaths, it is a critical component in decision-making in a high risk/low frequency occupation. Based on NIOSH findings, it can impact response to improve firefighter safety. This thesis presents various training models currently used in the fire service, how cognitive processes and panic and stress impact firefighter response, other challenges and impacts on training, as well as best practices for training in other organizations. The evaluation of these factors assists in developing a better understanding of how we learn and retain information and how these lessons can be applied to improve training in the fire service."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
O'Neal, David E.
2019-12
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Softest Target: Security Planning for Houses of Worship
From the Thesis Abstract: "Defending houses of worship has become an ever-increasing need in homeland security. The rise of threats against faith-based organizations is growing, and the unique nature of sanctuaries makes them an ever-increasing soft target. What security help can assist houses of worship, and how can homeland security experts advise faith-based organizations? This thesis employs an appreciative inquiry approach to define the security problem that houses of worship face in specific threats and hurdles unique to them. Chapters review available resources at the government level, in the commercial space, and by faith-based organizations themselves. The material was then synthesized by developing an emergency operations plan for one house of worship: Northminster Presbyterian Church in Tucson, Arizona. This thesis suggests that overcoming the hurdles to security strategies within a house of worship is much more nuanced than previously believed, and the construction of a security plan for any house of worship is far more difficult than previously understood. Rather than seeking a one-size-fits-all or a packaged solution, houses of worship would best be served by engaging in a local effort to analyze security challenges and solutions. Little empirical study treats how houses of worship use, acquire, and find value in protection strategies on their campuses, and this thesis starts the conversation into this rarely discussed space."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Stein, John E.
2019-12
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Strategic Vessel System Management for the Public Safety Vessel Enterprise
From the Thesis Abstract: "This thesis reviews current practices for vessel acquisition in the public safety and homeland security fields, and evaluates agencies' strategic management of vessels as a means for improving planning and efficiency. The research explores parallel systems--including vehicle fleet maintenance and other vessel system planning--to establish best-practice anchors, against which it analyzes case studies from the Fire Department of New York, the Port of San Diego Harbor Police, and the U.S. Navy to evaluate how off-the-shelf or design-build strategies affect strategic management. The thesis then reviews additional requests for information to evaluate the current state of the public safety/homeland security vessel enterprise. The thesis concludes by presenting strategic best-practice anchors for moving forward in the maritime area of public safety assets. Establishing these best-practice anchors is the first step toward their wider use in the homeland security vessel enterprise."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Jensen, Brian C.
2019-12
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Missing Link: How Do Gaps in Mental Healthcare Contribute to the Active Shooter Epidemic?
From the Thesis Abstract: "Active shooter incidents at schools have highlighted the prevalence of mental illness in our society. Although the United States has historically struggled with its mental health policy, continuous efforts have been made to improve the system. During the 1960s, asylums were overcrowded and public outcry for humane treatment of the mentally ill pressured the government for change. To give patients a more normal life, the idea of community mental health centers emerged. Deinstitutionalization happened quickly across the country. The intent of the plan was to provide a more community-based approach to mental health. Unfortunately, the implementation of the plan was fractured. Over the past 50 years, with each iteration to the mental health system, many of those patients have found themselves in jail, in prisons, and homeless. This thesis explores a counterfactual analysis through an in-depth case study of Adam Lanza's life and navigation through the mental health system. Throughout his life, opportunities existed for intervention and treatment. Gaps in his mental health treatment allowed Adam to spiral into a deep state of mental illness in which he was debilitated by his obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety. The analysis suggests that the community-based approach to mental health could have provided early intervention that might have changed the outcome for Adam Lanza and the 26 lives he took at Sandy Hook Elementary on December 14, 2012."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Buffkin, Kimberly L.
2019-12
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Unsuspected: The U.S. Military's Unintended Contribution to Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
From the Thesis Abstract: "Active-duty military members and veterans (MIL/VETs) are joining, facilitating, and creating outlaw motorcycle gangs in search of a familiar social identity. MIL/VETs' advantageous skill sets, and their international deployments, are helping outlaw motorcycle gangs expand beyond law enforcement's ability to interdict them. In an effort to understand why some MIL/VETs join outlaw motorcycle gangs, this thesis analyzed publicly available information, and the author's personal experience as a gang investigator, through social identity theory and the social identity analytical method. The research found that outlaw motorcycle gang culture takes advantage of concepts such as patron-client relationships, challenge-response cycles, and honor challenges to provide MIL/VETs a limited good--a positive social identity--through its pseudo-warfare environment. The research also identified that MIL/VETs have specific motivations for seeking a positive identity through motorcycle gangs, including a desire to expand the criminal tradecraft, redeem regrets or missed opportunities from their military service, seek post-military employment, or address identity deficits. The findings in this thesis, along with additional research into these motivations, will contribute to the study of outlaw motorcycle gang culture and may help illuminate suitable alternatives to offer MIL/VETs."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
King, S. Nicholas
2019-12
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Seminaries in the System: The Effects of Prison Seminaries on Recidivism, Inmate Violence, and Costs
From the Thesis Abstract: "Rehabilitation is one of the main goals of the correctional system, with numerous and varied programs being implemented for centuries. The United States spends millions on rehabilitation programs, yet recidivism rates, prison violence, and correctional costs continue to rise. This thesis explores how prison seminaries are addressing these issues and in the process, changing inmates' attitudes and behaviors. Examining Angola, the first prison seminary that became a model for many subsequent prison seminaries, including interviews with inmates and prison staff, reveals how inmates' attitudes and behaviors changed as a result of their seminary. Similar programs that follow Angola's model were also reviewed to determine if there was a reduction in acts of violence and a change in inmates' prosocial behaviors as a result of the programs. This thesis analyzed quantitative evidence in the form of prison statistics and inmate conduct records to determine if prison seminaries lower rates of recidivism as well as inmate violence. Legal case studies were used to evaluate the constitutionality of prison seminaries. Finally, this thesis identified reasons why prison seminaries are changing the overall culture of prisons, including individual identity transformations, the activities of inmate ministers, and participation in religious activities. The findings reveal prison seminaries are reducing both recidivism rates and inmate violence, which reduces the overall costs of incarceration."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Dotson, Roy D.
2019-12
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Regulating Hawala: Thwarting Terrorism or Jeopardizing Stability?
From the Thesis Abstract: "This thesis uses the case study method to investigate the unintended consequences that have resulted from the United States' efforts to deter criminal abuses of hawala. It explores the illegitimate and legitimate uses of hawala in Africa and the Middle East in the post-9/11 era. Despite extensive regulatory blocks, hawala has been a key financial node for the Taliban, Islamic State, and al-Shabaab. On the other hand, hawala serves as a lifeline for victims of terrorism in Africa and the Middle East. Any disruption in service jeopardizes their survival and protection. This study identifies how regulatory action has caused financial exclusion and is counterproductive to the United States' anti-money laundering efforts and campaigns against terrorism financing. Practices like de-risking encourage the growth of alternative money transfer systems. This assessment concludes with a recommendation to use mobile money platforms to reinvigorate the formal financial sector and promote financial inclusion. Mobile hawalas are already leveraging digital delivery channels and have gained rapid momentum. In lieu of further regulatory action, Western institutions can employ these emerging technologies to transform into more adaptive and advantageous competitors of hawala and avoid compromising the essential service it provides." A 12 minute and 10 second interview on this thesis is also available at the following link: [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=866898].
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Mali, Monika
2019-12
