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Leveraging State and Local Law Enforcement Maritime Homeland Security Practices
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis explores the practices of six state or local law enforcement agencies in the field of maritime homeland security. Using the Delphi Survey Method on a sample of the highest-risk, most strategically located, and most commercially important ports in the United States, this thesis looks at the successes and challenges of grant funding, training practices, recovery efforts, and state government role in maritime homeland security. The resounding and underlying theme of the best practices cited by these port areas is centered on collaborative efforts across federal, state, local, and tribal agencies. Respondent agencies noted that the most successful practices in their respective ports were the result of coordination across information sharing, exercises and drills, task forces, and centers (fusion centers, operations centers, coordination centers, and training centers)."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Nichols, Kirk L.
2016-03
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Redirected Radicals: Understanding the Risk of Altered Targeting Trajectories Among ISIL's Aspiring Foreign Fighters
From the thesis abstract: "Since the formation of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and its so-called 'Caliphate,' the terrorist organization has demonstrated its capability and willingness to project force beyond its immediate area of operations in the Middle East, extending to Western countries. Rather than solely dispatching trained foreign fighters, in the United States, ISIL's strategy has involved homegrown violent extremists (HVEs) with a limited range of connectivity to the group. This thesis explores the threat posed by a subgroup of HVEs identified as 'redirected radicals,' aspiring foreign fighters who, when prevented by counterterrorism actions from traveling overseas, decided instead to alter their targeting trajectory and commit violence in their home countries. Through an extensive comparative case study analysis of recent ISIL-related violent incidents and plots in the United States, Canada, and Australia, common trends identified the prevalence of redirected radicals. This thesis found that policy responses to this phenomenon differed significantly across these three nations, using an array of legal authorities including undercover investigations, passport revocation, and preventative detention with varying degrees of effectiveness. Ultimately, this thesis determined that investigations involving potential redirected radicals offer unique opportunities for counterterrorism authorities to effectively decrease the likelihood of a domestic attack."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Gordon, John Tully
2016-09
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Application of the Intelligence Cycle to Prevent Impacts of Disastrous Wildland Fires
From the thesis abstract: "Wildland fires are an enduring homeland security threat that destroys lives, property, and the environment annually. This thesis explores the concept that the application of the intelligence cycle is a practical approach to addressing threats and minimizing wildland fire impacts. To determine how effective the intelligence cycle can be in decreasing the impacts of disastrous wildland fires, the research examined the wildland fire problem, fire service intelligence, and the intelligence cycle. Research affirmed there is no current application of a wildland fire intelligence cycle. A case study analysis concluded that components of the intelligence cycle currently take place in wildland fire incidents, but not in a formalized process. This thesis argues that the intelligence cycle is a valuable framework for re-evaluating how the fire service collects, analyzes, and disseminates information about wildland fire threats. As a result of research and analysis, several recommendations were identified that include policy adoption at the national level and enhanced wildland-fire intelligence integration. The intelligence cycle adoption will ultimately help the fire service better communicate with the communities it services, and the resulting enhanced communication will help the fire service be more successful in mitigating the effects of those fires that do occur."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Young, Brian
2018-06
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Iran's Social Media Message and Its Connection to Conspiracy Theories
From the thesis abstract: "This research explored the strategy behind Iran's English-language media campaigns on the Internet, particularly with regard to Iran's use of social media, to determine its possible impact on homeland security in the United States. A qualitative analysis of data from the Facebook pages of Iran's PressTV and the Young Journalists Club was conducted, and the author determined that the best method to determine Iran's messaging strategy would be to closely follow the statements made by Iran's Supreme Leader. The study also found rumors and conspiracy theories contributed to a large part of the Iranian social media message, and there was a significant connection to Western websites that featured conspiracy theory content. Although the Iranian Facebook message has only achieved modest inroads, its connection to conspiracy theories is troubling. As Daniel Jolley and Karen M. Douglas point out in their 2014 article, 'The Social Consequences of Conspiracism,' conspiracy theories increase distrust in the government and inhibit future political involvement. Conspiracy theories and rumors can also be used in disinformation campaigns, and the 1968 'Report of the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders' linked the spread of rumors to civil unrest. Rather than ceding a portion of the Internet to Iran's messengers, this study recommends an American counter-messaging strategy and the use of technological advances to defeat Iran's Internet censorship in order to give all Iranians unfettered access to Western media sources."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Runnels, Robert C.
2015-03
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In Bad Faith: The Link Between Religious Conversion and Violent Extremism
From the thesis abstract: "Recent studies found a disproportionate number of converts to Islam taking part in radical activities as opposed to those born into the faith. While research linking conversion to radicalization is available, a gap exists in research examining what in the conversion process is causing this phenomenon. This thesis asks, what is the relationship between religious conversion and violent extremism? This study explores 38 individuals who converted to Islam and subsequently committed a radical act. The thesis investigates four hypotheses concerning sociological and psychological factors driving religious conversion. These driving factors are a lack of secure attachments, interpersonal connections, significant personal problems, and individuals with perceived grievances being targeted by recruiters. The most significant driving factor in radicalization was individuals who had significant personal problems in their lives leading up to conversion, especially if a previous connection to a radical milieu existed. Recruiters seeking targets of opportunity among aggrieved individuals to convert was not a significant driving factor. Religious conversion by itself should not raise red flags, but conversion with other underlying factors indicates a greater risk for radicalization. The underlying factors are the drivers of radicalization, and the conversion gives individuals a reason to manifest their radical tendencies."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Gibson, Brian J.
2018-03
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Westerner Radicalization: Rethinking the Psychology of Terrorism
From the thesis abstract: "The U.S. strategy to counter violent extremism relies heavily on the expert consensus that terrorists are engaging in political 'group speak' and are by nature psychologically 'normal.' Thus, anyone is susceptible to radicalization. To counter radicalization, finding answers is like finding a needle in a haystack. However, in the psychologically similar phenomenon of arson by firefighter--when a firefighter deliberately sets and then extinguishes a fire to appear heroic--the needle was found in an objective detailed analysis of offenders. This thesis takes the known root causes of arson by firefighter and applies them to the unknown root causes of Westerner radicalization. The small percentage of firefighters who commit this type of arson do so to establish an identity and sense of belonging. Similarly, disconnected Westerners radicalize to pursue a narrative of belonging and significance. This thesis argues that while captured and former terrorists may appear 'normal' and motivated by grievances, the reality may not be that simple; the human mind is not a light switch that flips evenly between normal and abnormal. The consensus view on countering violent extremism, which dismisses psychoanalytical or psychological approaches, must be reevaluated."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Pierson, Vernon
2017-03
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Domestic Embedded Reporter Program: Saving Lives and Securing Tactical Operations
From the thesis abstract: "Advances in technology have provided journalists the tools to obtain and share real-time information during domestic-terrorist and mass-shooting incidents. This real-time information-sharing compromises the safety of first responders, victims, and reporters. Real-time sharing of tactical operations, including the positioning of law enforcement, firefighters, and their equipment, impacts the security and effectiveness of emergency responders in mitigating the public threat. The Department of Defense (DOD) fought a similar battle with members of the media more than a decade ago with the creation of its embedded reporter program. This thesis explores the following question: Can first response agencies and journalists in the United States adopt an embedded journalist program for domestic terrorist or mass-shooting events? The research reviewed the DOD's embedded reporter program and explored potential modifications for use within the United States. The thesis finds that although it is possible to create a collaborative embedded reporter program for use within the United States, it may be more feasible to adopt portions of the program such as placing an embargo on all tactical operations, creating a formal media training program, and implementing media credentials."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Trost, Michelle
2017-03
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Problem-Solving in Homeland Security and Creating Policy Conditions for Enhanced Civic Engagement: An Examination of Crowdsourcing Models
"This thesis examines crowdsourcing experiments and engagement models, the leveraging of technology in these pursuits, and their potential utility for solving problems in the homeland security enterprise. Rather than identifying a gap or seeking to fix something that is 'broken,' the research evaluates the potential benefits of employing crowdsourcing models in homeland security and its related disciplines. It uses appreciative inquiry to evaluate how existing successful models might open new pathways between government and citizens for the generation of knowledge, the exchange of information, or for innovation in approaches to problem solving. This thesis advances the hypothesis that, within the body of crowdsourcing and engagement models, a combination of ideas, examples, approaches, and successes exists that demonstrates potential utility for the homeland security field. The research findings exhibited this potential, manifesting in new partnerships and the creation of new knowledge. Participants, aided only by personal technology, self-organized some initiatives; in other cases, participants simply needed a platform to enable their motivation to contribute. These platforms for engagement and pathways to them were a consistent part of the narrative across the literature. Contributions by the non-professional was also a consistent theme, as was a need for a balanced approach that provides a safe framework within which to operate."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Bisogno, Raymond
2017-06
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Efficiency v. Security: Information Technology Consolidations - Resilience, Complexity, and Monoculture
From the thesis abstract: "Governmental organizations commonly seek to cut costs and increase efficiency through consolidation and standardization of information technology (IT) infrastructure. This may result in vulnerabilities not typically considered by policymakers, due to concentration and homogenization of critical assets, elimination of redundancy and surge capacity, and tightly coupled systems. This thesis reviewed the potential vulnerabilities that may exist in consolidated IT systems due to the effects of complexity, selforganized criticality, and monoculture, and shows that efficient systems carry inherent vulnerabilities. Because we cannot mitigate every possible threat, hazard, or vulnerability, IT professionals should focus on system resilience. Resilience of a system is counter-proportional to the product of vulnerability and spectral radius; therefore, any increase in vulnerability, spectral radius, or both decreases resilience. A reduction in overall vulnerability can compensate for increased self-organization and other losses of resilience through a variety of recommended actions. Many of those actions come with a cost-- organizations will have to determine the tradeoffs they are willing to make between efficiency and security."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Ricker, Jennifer L.
2018-03
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New Model for Understanding Incident Management
From the thesis abstract: "The various sources of doctrine that practitioners use to conceptualize incident management result in inefficiencies, conflict, and misinterpretation. They can hinder or reduce operational success for incident management agencies and practitioners. Existing difficulties were validated through practitioner interviews and an in-depth literature review. Taking a more comprehensive and unified approach, a new incident management conceptual model is proposed and applied to several case examples. Conclusions, findings, and possible corrective measures are proposed to improve incident management doctrine."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Flamm, David S.
2016-12
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Ideological Radicalization: A Conceptual Framework for Understanding Why Youth in Major U.S. Metropolitan Areas are More Likely to Become Radicalized
From the thesis abstract: "The number of disconnected youth, those ages 16 to 24 who are not in school and are not employed, has reached significant levels in the United States and Western Europe. This trend is coupled with the fact that more and more foreign fighters are joining Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Iraq and Syria. In particular, Western youth have been the target of radicalization by ISIS and other terrorist groups, and the appeal and lure of such groups seem unlikely to subside. A similar trend is also evident among youth in Muslim countries where the number of foreign fighters to terrorist groups seems unlikely to decrease. According to recent estimates, over 28,000 foreign fighters have joined ISIS in Syria and Iraq since 2011. The fact that so many youth have been radicalized to join terrorist groups is a cause for concern that requires closer scrutiny, understanding, and action by Western and other governments. The explanations and motivations as to why youth join terrorist groups abound; these include lack of education, poverty, religion discrimination, family background, and political and economic marginalization, among others. This research seeks to answer the question, are the youth in the United States, who are disconnected, more likely to become radicalized to terrorism? To answer this, various theoretical frameworks were researched and examined, such as relative deprivation, social movement theory, and psychological perspectives, to shed light on understanding this issue."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Abrahams, John A.
2017-03
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Connections Among Communities: Preventing Radicalization and Violent Extremism Through Social Network Analysis (SNA) in the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) Framework
From the thesis abstract: "The evolution of socially connected networks of influence has created new ideological dimensions that motivate an individual to radicalize and to commit acts of violent extremism and terrorism. This thesis explored the viability of using social network analysis (SNA) as a tool in the nation's Threat and Hazard Identification Risk Assessment (THIRA) framework to determine whether factors (such as relationships and motivations) can be used to reduce the vulnerability of a community at risk of radicalization and violent extremism and to build resilience. Using literature that described core SNA principles and related fields of study, a theoretical framework was developed to illustrate how extremist ideologies and motivations are socialized within a particular network. This theoretical framework is assessed through a multi-case study analysis, examining an individual's radicalization process and programs to counter violent extremism in Australia and Scotland. This analysis ultimately suggested that incorporating the SNA methodology could be beneficial if included in the THIRA process. This thesis illustrates how a community could be provided the opportunity to mitigate against the process of radicalization by developing and targeting core capabilities that may help them build social capital and trust and to increase efficiency and availability of information sharing and social support intended to improve individual and community resilience."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Woodhams, Katrina Marie
2016-12
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Lawful Hacking: Toward a Middle Ground Solution to the Going Dark Problem
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines the ongoing debate between law enforcement and the intelligence communities on one side, and the technology industry and privacy rights groups on the other, over the 'going dark' problem. Going dark is a phenomenon created by ubiquitous use of end-to-end encryption over communication devices and Internet platforms, rendering those communications warrant-proof. End-to-end encryption means that only the sender and receiver of the message can read it, and no one in between. Even with a properly executed warrant or subpoena, law enforcement and intelligence agencies are unable to access the data they need because that data was encrypted. This thesis explores the historical, political and legislative developments that contributed to the rise of encryption in recent years, as well as constitutional doctrines that may be relevant to the public debate over possible policy solutions. Through the policy options analysis method, this thesis identifies lawful hacking as a middle-ground solution that policymakers should adopt in the short term. It also recommends that the U.S. government initiate a public education campaign to gain public support for some form of regulation concerning encryption in the future. The fundamental issue here is not only about the tension between privacy and security. The issue is also about who should make decisions with broad implications for the collective security: elected officials or the technology industry."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Nguyen, Hoaithi Y.T.
2017-03
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Deterring Violent Extremism in America by Utilizing Good Counter Radicalization Practices from Abroad: A Policy Perspective
From the thesis abstract: "The problem of violent extremism is approaching a critical point in America. American government and community leaders must find an effective approach to deterring violent extremism immediately. A national and comprehensive approach to deter violent extremism in America is currently lacking. This comparative policy perspective seeks to determine whether the United Kingdom and Australia have good practices to deter violent extremism that can be useful in America. Secondly, this thesis also seeks to determine whether the United States can implement potential good practices to deter violent extremism. After a thorough review of the issue of violent extremism in America, this thesis studies similar background, research, and violent extremism issues in the United Kingdom and Australia. This thesis concludes that a variety of good practices in the United Kingdom and Australia can counter radicalize and deter violent extremists in America. The findings and recommendations from this research include challenges and a way forward to implement certain potential best practices for the United States. The arguments offer viable options and alternatives that the United States should consider when creating a national deterring-violent-extremism strategy. The details and information regarding understanding and implementing good practices to deter violent extremism in America are contained in this thesis."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Bonanno, Amy Fires
2017-03
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Missing the Mark: Is ICS Training Achieving Its Goal?
From the thesis abstract: "The Incident Command System (ICS) was originally adopted in the 1970s as a fire service emergency management system. Following the events on September 11, 2001, the National Response Plan adopted ICS across all hazards and disciplines in order to unite responders under the same management system during emergencies. However, creating one system to service so many disparate agencies and response types was a massive undertaking, and the system's effectiveness has since been questioned. To operate in ICS, responders must engage in the adult learning process, which requires social interaction with an engaged instructor and active peers. Before the system can be judged properly, we must ensure personnel have been trained and are implementing the system adequately. This thesis examines the adult learning process and the keys to ensuring that learning and behavior change actually occur. It further examines ICS courses' current online delivery system and recommends evaluating this system to engage the social learning required for successful cultural change. The thesis also critiques the ICS training measurement method and recommends changes to better measure system learning and utilization."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Seibel, Eric J.
2016-12
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Granting Concessions and Paying Ransoms to Terrorists: A Policy Options Analysis of the U.S. Policy on Hostage Recovery
From the thesis abstract: "Nations around the world, including the United States, have been battling terrorist hostage-takings by instituting 'no-concessions' policies. The hope is that denying terrorists their demands will remove all incentives for hostage-taking, thereby eliminating its practice. However, since this policy has been in existence, research has shown that hostage-takings have increased. Considering the recent, highly publicized beheadings of hostages held by the Islamic State, is there a better policy option, such as one that protects U.S. citizens who are being held hostage? To answer this question, this thesis conducted a policy options analysis. Criteria were developed from the literature, and the current U.S. policy was compared to two other policy options. The research found that current U.S. policy does not effectively achieve its goals and, as such, does not offer the best protection to U.S. citizens. As a result, the thesis concluded that the United States would be better served by removing the no-concessions rule and focusing on a policy that punishes terrorists who participate in hostage-taking."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Hyatt, Rodney
2016-06
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States of Terror: Understanding Evolving Islamist Terrorist Organizations and the Threat They Pose
From the thesis abstract: "Islamist militant organizations appear to be evolving from traditional disassociated networks, al- Qaeda's model, into centralized regional powers with the intent of developing into national governments. This thesis presents a comparative case study of five mainstream Islamist militant organizations, the Islamic State, Jabhat Fatah al-Sham, al-Shabaab, the Afghan Taliban, and Hezbollah, to determine how close they have come to statehood and how such a change may affect U.S. homeland security. The criteria used to analyze the case studies were primarily derived from the Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States, which describes a state as an entity with a permanent population, defined borders, an ability to conduct governance, and an ability to enter into relations with other national governments. Additional criteria were used to determine the organizations' propensity to threaten the United States in their governmental capacity. This thesis found that none of the Islamist militant organizations in the case studies currently fit all the criteria for statehood; however, none fit al-Qaeda's disassociated model either. Therefore, the international community should consider defining and more accurately classifying these groups as militant states."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
McCulley, Dylan P.
2016-09
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Enhancing Public Helicopter Safety as a Component of Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "The wide range of missions performed by public safety helicopters makes them a valuable asset for the public and to the homeland security environment. The high-risk missions, lack of regulatory oversight, and minimal standards of safety put public-safety helicopter aviation in the crosshairs of the National Transportation Safety Board. This study addresses how public safety aviation units' exemption from the Federal Aviation Administration regulations is a contributing factor to helicopter accidents. The study uses a qualitative analysis called coding to identify the common traits among accidents and then makes recommendations to prevent future accidents. There is currently no industry research identifying the commonalities among accidents like this research does. This thesis also identified the safety culture in the public safety units as a contributing factor to the accidents. The nature of public safety personnel is to accept high levels of risk to help those in need. When this attitude is applied to aviation, it leads to unnecessary accidents. The recommendations provided in the last chapter of the thesis provide techniques and solutions to help reduce the risk in public safety aviation. The recommendations, if adequately implemented, may help save lives by preventing future accidents."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Fitzgerald, William Denis, Jr.
2016-12
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Border Security: A Conceptual Model of Complexity
From the thesis abstract: "This research applies complexity and system dynamics theory to the idea of border security, culminating in the development of a conceptual model that can be used to expand exploration of unconventional leverage points, better understand holistic implications of border policies, and improve sense making for homeland security. How can border security be characterized to better understand what it is, and why are so many divergent opinions being voiced on whether it can be achieved? By demonstrating the border as a complex adaptive system (CAS) through the use of graphic system dynamics models, exploring by way of example the influences surrounding the movement of trade and transnational terrorists across borders, four policy-centric pillars became evident: 1) institutional capacity, 2) criminal capacity, 3) ability to move people and goods across borders rapidly, and 4) operational capacity. Culture, identity, adversarial adaptation, enforcement, and moral values influence and are influenced by, perceptions of what are seen as threats. This research illustrates the value of thinking in systems (instead of missions or programs), challenges assumptions of what borders and border security are thought to be, and intends to inspire creativity in thinking about 21st century borders: what they represent and the challenges they pose."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Stein, Teia N.
2013-12
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It Is Not Just a Press Conference: The Consequences of Crisis Communication While the World Watches
From the thesis abstract: "An important part of the homeland security enterprise is the ability of public officials and leaders to communicate effectively with the public. When a crisis strikes, the public's ability to understand and act upon messages provided by officials is often significantly impinged by anxiety, fear, worry and distrust. In these uncertain and traumatic times, the public looks for a trusted voice and steady leadership. The ability to be trusted and lead during a crisis is determined, largely, by how well an official communicates with those affected. This thesis examines the public information methods used by officials in two high-profile criminal cases that unfolded before live television news cameras over the course of several days in 2013--the Boston Marathon bombings and the nine-day manhunt for former Los Angeles Police Department Officer Christopher Dorner in the greater southern California area. Best practices in risk and crisis communication are identified through a review of the literature and are used as the basis for analyzing each case study. The findings lead to four key crisis communication recommendations for public officials: recognizing the importance of empathy and compassion in trust building, focusing specifically on crisis communication best practices for leadership, emphasizing the importance of building pre-event partnerships, and differentiating the tactics from the strategic."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Huston, Kelly B.
2014-03
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Border Security Agency Structure: A Hindrance to Demonstrating Border Security Success
From the thesis abstract: "Long-awaited immigration reform may become a reality in 2013, as Congress debates the merits of a comprehensive overhaul. The primary criteria for triggering reforms in the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act (S.744), involves demonstrated control of the Southwest border. The debate has been complicated, however, because only a few analysts and not the Department of Homeland Security itself have been able to produce acceptable metrics that illustrate success at enforcing border operations, at or between, the ports of entry."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Atwood, Cynthia
2013-12
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Arizona Law Enforcement Biometrics Identification and Information Sharing Technology Framework
"Since 9/11, Arizona and federal law enforcement agencies understand the need to improve subject identification capabilities and integrate criminal information across jurisdictions. Agencies still collect information based on a subject's name and demographics for identification. Using a subject's name and demographics as keys to identifying information is a weakness. In 2012, Arizona will upgrade the state's strategic plan to allow law enforcement officers to use biometrics technology to verify a subjects' identity at first point of contact and implement information sharing capability across the state, border states, and federal agencies. This thesis presents a technology framework for strategic planning that includes biometrics identification technology, information sharing capability, and a governance structure for oversight. Through researching implementations in Los Angeles County, California and the states Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Vermont a comparative analysis revealed similarities in each implementation that will be used in developing an Arizona technology framework. Biometrics identification and information sharing is critical for supporting security along the U.S. border with Mexico. This thesis addresses expansion of the technology framework to align with the FBI [Federal Bureau of Investigation]'s Repository for Individuals of Special Concern, initiatives to gain access to identification information from Central American countries and programs developed during the border governors' conferences with Mexico."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kalaf, William M.
2010-03
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Border Security: A Journey Without a Destination
From the thesis abstract: "Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, an increase in the public's awareness concerning border security has resulted in an outcry to secure this nation's borders. Congress, the Department of Homeland Security, border states, and local governments have all defined what constitutes a secure border differently, which makes the measurement of success or failure virtually impossible. By utilizing a case study methodology, this thesis seeks to answer the question: can the project management process be applied to the border security effort to generate an accepted definition of a secure border? Findings indicate that the absence of empirical data that can demonstrate a secure border has generated a tremendous amount of debate in regards to the exact level of border security but the project management process could be utilized to bring stakeholders together and create a definition of secure border that can be more widely accepted. However, various issues with the definition remain that will not be resolved, which stems from the social-psychological aspect of separating a secure border from a sealed border and some citizens in the United States will never accept anything other than a completely sealed border. This area can and should be studied in detail in the future."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Levy, Christopher L.
2013-12
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Preventing Terrorist Bombings on United States Subway Systems
"In the past three years, major attacks on mass transportation in Moscow, Madrid, London, and Mumbai left hundreds dead, thousands injured and the world searching for answers. Subway systems are not only attractive targets, but evidence persists of a continued terrorist interest in conducting attacks on United States subways and railways. An attack on a subway or rail system in the United States could cause substantial loss of life and could have an adverse impact on public confidence, resulting in massive economic loss. This thesis examines a series of security initiatives that collectively comprise a plan to be used as a template for mass transit systems in the United States that operate a subway to augment security. The core goal of these initiatives identifies ways to increase the probability of early detection to prevent terrorist bombings of all types on United States subway systems."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Metzger, James
2006-09
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U.S. Maritime Security: Sustainability Challenges
From the thesis abstract: "The U.S. maritime domain includes vast resources and enables transportation of goods and services across the globe. Similar to all critical infrastructures and key resources, the maritime domain can be exploited to cause harm to people and disrupt economic stability. The President's National Strategy for Maritime Security and the U.S. maritime security framework is designed to deter, prevent and respond to a broad range of threats and exploitations. The U.S. maritime security system has evolved over the past decade and faces significant challenges including severe budget reductions, gaps between national guidance and specific roles and responsibilities assigned to federal agencies, and lack of interoperability among disparate logistic, training processes and operational command centers within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Within the DHS, the United States Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection execute the preponderance of maritime security missions. They struggle with aging air and marine assets and continuous interoperability challenges. The long-term solution includes a new alignment of air and marine resources and capabilities under one agency within the department, which will increase efficiency and reduce duplication of effort and costs, while maintaining a sustainable and layered maritime security posture in support of the President's strategy."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Thompson, Laura Jean
2011-09
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Substance Testing in the Fire Service: Making Public Safety a Matter of National Policy
From the thesis abstract: "The state of fire service substance-testing policy nationwide, and what it should be, is the subject of this project. This thesis analyzed 12 substance-testing policies from fire departments across the country. The project looked at the language fire departments were using to convey the intent, process, and consequences of their policy. Common themes emerged as each policy was examined. However, upon closer examination, more inconsistency was found than uniformity. Differences ranged from policy purposes to prevailing guidance to types of substances tested for, threshold levels, and employee treatment, with the greatest difference found in the terminology. As a result of the analysis, this thesis identifies best practices and required components of a standardized national substance-testing policy, and asserts that such a national model should be implemented." A 6-min, 37-second video interview on this thesis is also available at the following link: [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=752919]
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Penn, Chérie A.
2014-03
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Promoting Interoperability: The Case for Discipline-Specific PSAPS
From the thesis abstract: "Given that public safety answering points (PSAPs or 9-1-1 dispatch centers) are undergoing a process of consolidation, should that consolidation occur as a function of simple geographic proximity or discipline? This thesis investigated the differences among different dispatch disciplines, the effect of dispatching on interoperability, case studies investigating the operations of several different models of PSAP consolidation, and a theoretical case study involving inter-discipline and intra-discipline consolidation of PSAPs in King County, Washington. A survey of nine PSAPs of various sizes, types, and regions was conducted to determine their capabilities in voice and operational interoperability, how often opportunities to take advantage of that interoperability were encountered, and finally, to what extent interoperability was exercised when those opportunities did present themselves. The findings indicated intra-discipline interoperability (fire-to-fire or law enforcement-to-law enforcement) is not only intuitively of more value than inter-discipline interoperability (law enforcement-to-fire) but is actually prioritized by PSAPs in their day-to-day operations. Given that PSAP consolidation is occurring, the conclusion of this thesis is that interoperability within disciplines can be best improved by consolidating PSAPs by discipline while still realizing the benefits of geographic consolidation."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Walsh, Thomas Michael
2014-12
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Stacking the Deck-Can We Better Develop Future Homeland Security Leaders with Formal Mentoring Programs?
From the thesis abstract: "Informal mentoring appears to be the status quo in homeland security agencies for leadership development. However, informal mentoring is flawed due to the lack of organizational input into the quantity or quality of the mentoring relationships, underrepresentation of minority groups, and generational differences. The thesis explores the research question, 'Is the establishment of a formal mentoring program a smart practice for homeland security agencies to develop future leaders?' Case studies of the California Highway Patrol Coaching and Mentoring Program, the Lansing (Michigan) Police Department Mentor Program, and the Henrico County (Virginia) Division of Fire Acting Officer program were conducted in an effort to identify smart practices for other homeland security agencies to use when implementing a formal mentoring program. Research revealed that if properly implemented, formal mentoring programs can assist organizations with employee retention, succession planning, leadership development, closing generational gaps, and transferring organizational knowledge and skill among employees. The outcome of this thesis is a list of smart practices for formal mentoring programs. It will be up to the individual agencies to identify which smart practices fit the culture of their organization when creating a formal mentoring program, as no 'one size fits all' model exists for a formal mentoring program."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Taylor, Todd M.
2014-09
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Organizational Identity: Positioning the Coast Guard for Future Success in an Evolving Environment
From the thesis abstract: "The Coast Guard is an organization entrusted with significant responsibilities in the maritime environment. Concerns about large numbers of aging assets scheduled to reach the end of their design service life has prompted the Coast Guard to initiate the replacement and modernization of its offshore maritime and aviation fleet. Due to an initial lack of acquisition expertise and less than adequate funding, the Coast Guard has been faced with making tradeoffs. The primary goal of this thesis is to determine how the Coast Guard's organizational identity and strategic vision have impacted its ability to obtain necessary capabilities to satisfy mission requirements. This research also explores the Coast Guard's social identity and the organization's current performance measures. This research employed historical analysis, social network analysis, program analysis, and social identity theory methods. This research concludes is that changing patronage lines and in-group characterization may have negatively impacted the Coast Guard's ability to satisfy mission requirements. This thesis recommends that the Coast Guard reevaluate performance measurements that do not directly translate to the overarching strategic goals of the organization or of the Department of Homeland Security. Communication resources should focus on key figures associated with the budgetary and acquisitions processes."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Burnham, Melanie A.
2016-12
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Fortress America: The Aesthetics of Homeland Security in the Public Realm
From the thesis abstract: "Architecture communicates a message about the purpose of a space, the prestige of those who use or own the space, and the values associated with both users and owners. The aesthetics of this architecture elicit specific emotions, communicate histories, and inform worldviews. In the United States, homeland security architecture is largely a physical representation of a perceived threat of a terrorist attack in public spaces. Architecture has sociological, psychological, and cultural effects, as well as security impacts, but there is little research or discourse on the physical manifestation of homeland security in the United States. What are the consequences--intended and unintended--of homeland security architecture? How does a democratic government protect itself and design buildings and public spaces that are open, attractive, and promote both physical and psychological security? This thesis is a starting point for broader awareness and discussion within the emerging discipline of security design about the importance of aesthetics in homeland security."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Quirk, Tricia (Patti)
2017-09
