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Intelligence-sharing Continuum: Next Generation Requirements for U.S. Counterterrorism Efforts
From the thesis abstract: "The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks were a major catalyst for intelligence reform in the United States. Since this date, most government agencies have strived to evolve and advance in this capacity. One such way has been through the development of multi-agency, multi-disciplinary intelligence centers, such as the National Counterterrorism Center, the Interagency Threat Assessment and Coordination Group, and the 72 state and major urban area fusion centers established throughout the nation. However, despite the changes that have occurred throughout the U.S. intelligence and law enforcement communities, significant issues still remain that are impeding the creation and flow of actionable intelligence to support domestic counterterrorism efforts. This has been identified from research conducted on numerous sources. Several policy, technological, cultural and political challenges exist, all contributing to the less-than-perfect nature of the United States' existing counterterrorism framework. This thesis aims to identify potential solutions that leverage existing intelligence operations to promote an intelligence-sharing continuum across all tiers of U.S. government. The author provides an analysis of specific, priority issues that require fixing within our nation's counterterrorism system, and provides evidence-based recommendations to improve the capability and value of existing intelligence support structures and further-develop the desired intelligence-sharing continuum."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Carabin, David
2011-09
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New Department of Defense Framework for Efficient Defense Support of Civil Authorities
"The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, triggered a new focus on Department of Defense (DoD) capabilities support to civilian authorities during emergencies. Hurricane Katrina added to this national attention on the role the Department of Defense should play in responding to emergencies. Despite this recognition of the significance of military involvement, little has been done to organize a military framework that can effectively respond to a no notice domestic incident. This thesis analyzes the current context in which DoD capabilities are approved and utilized in a national crisis to examine two core issues: (1) under what circumstances can DoD capabilities be better leveraged in response to a catastrophic domestic event and (2) what are the strategic implications for DoD if they assume a more proactive role in domestic events? Two situational vignettes carved out of the National Planning Scenarios are used to demonstrate that the DoD validation and approval process for civil support operations is slowed by current policy. The study culminates by advocating that DoD reorganize its force structure to most efficiently support a military response to a domestic event. It recommends a new Civil Support Expeditionary Force framework for Defense Support of Civil Authorities."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Liberato, Rodney
2007-09
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Applying the Israeli Practice of Reconstruction Following a Terrorist Attack as a Model for Cities in the United States
From the thesis abstract: "A component of the Israeli counter-terrorism policy includes a strategic choreographed response to restore and reconstruct physical damage caused by a terrorist attack with the goal of removing all markings of the attack in an expeditious timeframe. The investment of reconstructing a damaged scene is intended to yield increased resiliency for the impacted population and devalue the fear intended to be delivered with the attack. The critical element of the Israeli model is that the government accepts that attacks will occur and has developed a response for such attacks beyond aiding the injured and processing a crime scene. Application of the Israeli model to the United States merits review, as there is a strong likelihood that future terrorist attacks will occur on domestic soil in the United States and a best practice may be extrapolated from the Israeli model. The intended restoration of normalcy that follows Israel's reconstruction efforts is designed to mitigate the psychological impact of a terrorist attack and serve as a palm to the damaged psyche of an impacted population. The State of Israel recognizes that the element of fear is a coconspirator in terror attacks and has developed a response to it. The subject of this thesis will address the specific response of reconstructing a damaged scene following a terrorist attack."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kelly, Robert J.
2013-03
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Emerging Threat of Domestic Terrorism: A Systematic Review of Evolving Needs, Threats, and Opportunities
From the thesis abstract: "The domestic terrorist threat in the United States is active and complex, with ongoing threats from violent left- and right-wing extremist groups, and radicalization and recruitment efforts by international terrorist groups. In response, domestic intelligence agencies, at all levels of government, have instituted reforms and improvements since 9/11, but there are still gaps in information-sharing and community engagement. For example, a review of the Boston Marathon bombings uncovered that important risk-based information was not shared with local law enforcement. Concerning domestic terrorism, the United States may, once again, be failing to 'connect the dots.' This thesis synthesizes existing studies, reports, and expert testimony concerning domestic terrorism and the roles of domestic intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and the public, and proposes the development and implementation of a formal, national counterterrorism (CT) doctrine. The CT doctrine, in conjunction with a counter-radicalization strategy, should focus on bottom-up intelligence/information-sharing, training to strengthen and focus intelligence collection efforts, and culturally sensitive and engaging messaging on social media and the Internet to counter extremist propaganda."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Wright, Lynn M.
2014-12
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Balanced Approach to Funding Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "State and local funds are currently inadequate for completely securing local infrastructures. This thesis poses a solution to the funding issues by looking at the problem from two perspectives: risk assessment methodology and civic involvement. Risk assessment reduces the need for funding by funding the highest risk return on investment assets only. It is the foundation for determining the funding and resources required for hazard mitigation; however, the current risk methodology used by the Department of Homeland Security, Threat and Hazard Identification Risk Assessment, is flawed because it lacks adequate rigor and does not incorporate a major goal in measuring effectiveness--return on investment. Citizen involvement may provide an alternative source of funding through crowdsourcing, rather than taxation. Involving citizens in making decisions about resources and raising capital for security measures provides a viable alternative to federal funding and supports public desire to play a role against terrorism. But in order to make such a shift in expectations attainable, citizens must have the trust and transparency that is fostered through accurate assessments, communication, engagement, and reporting. This thesis evaluates the current risk methodology and its shortcomings and proposes a more rigorous approach based on in-depth, holistic risk analysis to reduce vulnerabilities within a vast network of critical infrastructure assets, and proposes crowdsourcing, crowdfunding, and bonding as alternatives to traditional federal government grant funding."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kral, Steven G.
2014-12
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Comprehensive Fusion Liaison Officer Program: The Arizona Model
From the thesis abstract: "Many of the fusion centers recognized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security have established a liaison officer program with the intent of sharing information. In Arizona, the Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center's Terrorism Liaison Officer (TLO) Program has become an institution that is relied upon by participant jurisdictions for intelligence and information sharing between federal, state and local governments, along with unifying critical infrastructure initiatives and responding to major events. The network provides professional and vetted-out partners throughout the public safety community to assist jurisdictions in addressing many high-risk events and incidents. In the Phoenix urban area, TLOs respond to moderate and large scenes to support incident commanders with critical infrastructure data, a law enforcement intelligence research capability and a fire/emergency medical service/hazardous materials coordination capability that did not exist prior to the TLO program's establishment. The Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center's TLO program can serve as a model for fusion centers by demonstrating how multilayered and multijurisdictional relationships can be leveraged into a comprehensive network to address complex issues."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Wickers, William F., Jr.
2015-03
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Farewell to Arms: A Plan for Evaluating the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force and Its Alternatives
From the thesis abstract: "On September 14, 2001, Congress passed the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF). Over the past 13 years, the AUMF has served as the primary legal foundation for the use of force against terrorist organizations and other counterterrorist operations. Since its passage, threats facing the United States have evolved and new groups have emerged. Yet, Congress has failed to reexamine the statute. This thesis examines whether the AUMF serves as the proper foundation for addressing current terrorist threats or whether an alternative legal tool is more appropriate. To conduct this examination, it details and applies a methodology, or analytical framework, for assessing the status quo application of the AUMF and its potential alternatives. This thesis evaluates and ascertains the best among proposed courses of actions for the future of the AUMF by analyzing the evolution of terrorist threats, constitutional concerns, the consequences of altering the legal structure upon which national counterterrorism strategies rely, international legality, and precedent. Ultimately, this thesis recommends that Congress both sunset the AUMF and implement a tailored approach to force authorization, one that balances constitutional protections and security, while providing a foundation for crafting future force authorizations."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Kirschbraun, Jessica Lynn
2014-09
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Applying Deterrence Strategy to Agents of Asymmetrical Threats
From the thesis abstract: "Deterrence was quickly dismissed as a possible counterterrorism (CT) strategy after 9/11. With temporal distance from the impact, however, the concept has been given a fresh, in-depth look. The encouraging results brought the policy back to national security strategy, but today deterrence of asymmetrical threats remains largely intractable. Use of deterrence strategy, beyond the common notion of Cold War deterrence, holds promise for sustainable U.S. CT policy. The implications for U.S. foreign policy of such strategic enactments are likely more satisfactory than those employed in the first decade of the war on terror. This thesis seeks to explore the possibility of tailored deterrence toward the threat from radical Islamic terrorists, by gauging what is known about the strategy against what is known of the adversary, and determining the most effective path forward."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Ward, Christopher
2014-09
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Florida Law Enforcement's Role in Agroterrorism
From the thesis abstract: "The 2005 Department of Justice's National Institute of Justice report Defining Law Enforcement's Role in Protecting American Agriculture from Agroterrorism was used as a framework for analyzing the State of Florida's capabilities for preparing and responding to an agroterrorism attack. A series of desired capabilities were developed from the report's conclusions and recommendations, and research was conducted to establish Florida law enforcement's current capabilities. From these two points of reference, gap analysis identified the deficiencies in Florida's capabilities. Research and analysis found Florida's preparation capability gaps revolve around a general lack of intelligence and information sharing focused on the agriculture sector. The key recommendation is creation of a state agriculture intelligence and analysis unit interacting with the fusion centers, critical infrastructure protection program, and the food and agriculture sector. Florida's response capabilities were found to be quite robust. Gaps found in the area of response could be closed with relatively minor policy and strategy enhancements."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Burns, Benjamin E.
2014-12
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Silent Warning: Understanding the National Terrorism Advisory System
From the thesis abstract: "This research investigated two questions: How effective is the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) when compared to its predecessor, the Homeland Security Advisory System? And, does NTAS provide sufficient decision advantage for the nation it serves? The research methodology/design used a comparative analysis of results observed for each system as it addressed the problem set presented in a case study. The research found that NTAS is effective but continued improvement is needed. These improvements include: the formal establishment of a DHS Office of Counterterrorism Coordination; the renewal of the DHS Counterterrorism Advisory Board Charter or other appropriate governance documents to ensure sustainment of necessary decision making and execution authority for NTAS; refine the NTAS Concept of Operations to better demonstrate the system's scalable outcomes other than an NTAS-generated alert, such as Joint Intelligence Bulletins, Joint Threat Assessments, etc.; NTAS-related outreach and education efforts with the homeland security enterprise and the public; and the improvement of communication aspects of NTAS integrating with other warning systems, such as the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System. These improvements are critical in sustaining the current effectiveness of the system and ensuring its future success."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Brush, Roy B.
2014-12
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Improving Resource Allocation Decisions to Reduce the Risk of Terrorist Attacks on Passenger Rail Systems
From the thesis abstract: "Passenger rail systems continue to be a prime target for terrorists. Since 1995, there have been hundreds of attacks targeting assets worldwide that have resulted in almost 1,000 deaths and more than 1,500 injuries. As evidenced by the March 2016 attack in Brussels, Belgium, the openness and accessibility of passenger rail facilities are attractive to adversaries. This thesis reviews the current approach to risk assessment used by system operators to counter threats and proposes a new model to improve resource allocation decisions, which is intended to reduce the risk of terrorist attacks on passenger rail. The use of the game theory attacker-defender methodology in deciding where to allocate security improvements will increase the security of systems in defending against attacks. Changing tactics require security professionals to continually enhance the security posture of rail systems to deter terrorists. Limited resources make the job of securing a passenger rail system more of a challenge today than ever before."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
King, Lawrence W.
2016-12
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What Are We Missing? A Call for Red Teaming Within the Domestic Maritime Domain for Anti-terrorism Programs
From the thesis abstract: "As a component of the Department of Homeland Security and the department's lead for maritime security, the Coast Guard is charged with executing the United States domestic maritime anti-terrorism program. It is critical that Coast Guard policy, plans, and tactics maintain pace with the ever-changing risks associated with terrorism. This thesis examines alternative analysis red teaming and its potential value to the Coast Guard. Specifically, it seeks to answer how red teaming can be leveraged to enhance the value of domestic maritime anti-terrorism activities. The research reviews elements of the maritime domain and principles of red teaming, and proposes and provides implementation recommendations for a terrorism red teaming program for the domestic maritime domain. The study revealed that a red team program would be value added to the Coast Guard for domestic maritime anti-terrorism programs. Leveraging the concept of a minimal viable program, the thesis proposes a red team program and strategy to implement the program within the U.S. Coast Guard. The suggested program would be comprised of three elements: physical red teaming, identification of future attack scenarios, and policy red teaming. The thesis further provides insight into the implementation of these programs and suggests a minimal viable program approach to establishing a terrorism red teaming program for the domestic maritime domain."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
List, Timothy J.
2015-12
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Government Actions to Control Terrorist Violence; A Case Study on Northern Ireland
From the thesis abstract: "Using the historical method, this study of terrorism in Northern Ireland examines the variables of conflict, the existing violence and government endeavors to eradicate the violence. This study does so within the framework of the United States' interests. Irish terrorism has been a problem for the British government for centuries. The current round since 1969 has produced , vast improvements in the security forces and enforcement techniques, yet the I.R.A. [Irish Republican Army] and its political wing, Sinn Fein, survive. Government actions must include measures aimed at the root causes of terrorist movements. The relative degradation of the Catholic community within Northern Ireland has received international attention and has been the focus of much of the British government's efforts to legislate improvements in Northern Ireland. It appears that only through this process can peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland take place."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Naughton, Maura Katherine
1988-03
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Explaining Intervention in Southeast Asia: A Comparison of the Muslim Insurgencies in Thailand and the Philippines
"This thesis explores the theories of international intervention into ethnic conflict. The two case studies utilized to evaluate the interventionist literature are the Islamic separatist movements of Thailand and the Philippines. Both insurgencies are characterized by domestic attempts at secularization, marginalization, forced assimilation, and repression, causing ethno-religious minorities to violently attempt to separate from the state. While insurgencies are nothing new to Southeast Asia, the conflicts in the Philippines and Thailand were redefined by the War on Terror. Both countries became peripheral symbols of the broader international effort against militant Islamism. As a result, external actors took a vested interest in the evolution of each conflict. Strangely, the international or regional actors with parallel interests in each conflict have adopted divergent approaches in their involvement with activities in the two countries. The United States, Malaysia, and Al Qaeda seem to have equally vested interests in each conflict, and yet the extensive intervention in the Philippines is offset by a lack of intervention in Thailand. In the end, this comparison will offer insights into how domestic and international interests affect intervention, and the resulting implications for regional stability in Southeast Asia."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Walgren, Scott A.
2007-12
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Re-integration of Former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam Combatants into Civilian Society in Post-War Sri Lanka
From the thesis abstract: "The entire nation paid a high price militarily, politically, economically and socially during the twenty-six-year-old conflict in Sri Lanka. However, May 18, 2009, marked a significant milestone in the written history of Sri Lanka. The three-year-long Humanitarian Operation conducted by the Sri Lankan Security Forces to liberate civilians from the cruel clutches of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) terrorists ended, assigning a total military defeat to the LTTE. As a nation, Sri Lanka is now facing the daunting task of a range of challenges in the post-war era. Above all, much effort is needed to heel the scars of the conflict and to build the Sri Lankan identity. Though the war is over, the remnants of the LTTE may pose a considerable security challenge. Amongst them are many surrendered combatants of the LTTE who are being rehabilitated and absorbed into the society. Sacred responsibility lies with the government in rehabilitating ex-combatants is to ensure a long-term, results-oriented process. Considering the highly sensitive status quo of the issue at the aftermath of its conflict, the Sri Lankan government needs to contribute its share to rebuild the nation. Therefore, this thesis dwells on testing the benchmarks expected by the Sri Lankan government in carrying out this process and the outcome so far, in meeting the said contesting national requirement in comparison to other cases in the world. In this sense, the question arises as to how the programs of reintegration can be successful, and what potential problems could arise in the process of reintegration. Therefore, this thesis attempts to identify the questions of the Sri Lankan case in comparison to other cases, in understanding how de-radicalization and re-integration evolved in these countries, and how they reached the benchmarks by overcoming weaknesses and lapses."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
De Silva, Mada Kalapuge Lakshan Anuruddhika
2012-03
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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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Assessment of Public Health Infrastructure to Determine Public Health Preparedness
"Since September 2001, health threats associated with acts of terrorism have become an area of increasing concern. The Strategy for Homeland Security stresses the need for a robust public health component to quickly respond to and recover from attacks and other emergencies. The assumption that public health is an optimal system that simply needs to be aimed in new directions is fundamentally flawed. Public health baseline requirements for responding to threats are not as well understood as they might be. The purpose of this research is to help establish a common and accurate measure for assessing the public health infrastructure. Using the case study of Union County, New Jersey this thesis surveys the activities public health agencies are expected to perform; compares performance to target objectives; and employs a manpower matrix as a model for determining staffing requirements for local public health. This study argues that that the goal of sustainable funding for public health begins with an accurate measure of the capacities of the system in relation to demands placed upon it. Without such a measure public health will continue to fail in its primary functions and lack the capacity to meet Homeland Security goals."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Santiago, Denise L.
2006-03
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CHDS Thesis Series: Before the Emergency: A Framework for Evaluating Emergency Preparedness Alternatives at Higher Education Institutions [video]
"In this recently published thesis, Laura Wilson gathered information about the ways in which 10 higher education institutions (HEIs) in the U.S. are currently making decisions about which emergency preparedness activities to pursue and how those most familiar with emergency management at HEIs think that these decisions should be made. Using this information, in concert with principles from the field of decision analysis, a conceptual framework was developed to enable decision makers to evaluate proposed preparedness alternatives using a normative approach to decision making."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Wilson, Laura L.
2010-11-11
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What Should be the Relationship between the National Guard and United States Northern Command in Civil Support Operations Following Catastrophic Events
From the thesis abstract: "Military civil support operations following Hurricane Katrina revealed a compelling need for improving the command and control arrangements between the National Guard, operating in Title 32 status subordinate to the governors, and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) who controlled all of the assigned Title 10 active duty forces subordinate to the President. This paper details the three mutually exclusive duty statuses of the National Guard, reviews the statutory, strategy and policy environment, and examines the joint military doctrine that covers civil support. It describes the three potential command and control models with their strengths and weaknesses. There is a detailed analysis of the USNORTHCOM's Defense Support of Civil Authority concept plan with recommended enhancements. The paper concludes that the command and control arrangement is situationally dependent and provides considerations for the commander. There is no directive authority that compels the National Guard to work with U.S. Northern Command. However, there are mutual benefits to working in partnership to create the coordination and communication model organization and procedures for future civil support. The USNORTHCOM commander needs to build trust with the governors, and then get a full time National Guard brigadier general on his staff to complete the coordination with the states."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Topp, Peter A.
2006-09
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Alt-Right Influence on the Radicalization of White Nationalists in the United States, According to Significance Quest Theory
From the Thesis Abstract: "Reaching national notoriety in the 2016 election season, the Alt-Right embodied the most recent resurgence of white nationalism in the United States. Though it lost momentum with the 2017 'Unite the Right' rally, the Alt-Right's persistence in reaching broad audiences continued online with the adoption of uncensored media platforms like 8chan. The juxtaposition between white-nationalist violence conducted before and after the Alt-Right's national appearance highlights the Alt-Right's ability to attract relatively affluent young white Americans by leveraging fringe media sites to galvanize old white-nationalist ideologies given changing political environments. Where Dylann Roof, a high school dropout, had access only to passive white-nationalist websites that spouted hateful ideologies, John Earnest and Patrick Crusius, both college students, actively participated in uncensored social media platforms on which users motivated each other to commit violence through heated hateful rhetoric and the celebration of attacks on non-whites. In line with Significance Quest Theory--which emphasizes the role of motivation, terrorism-justifying ideologies, and social networks in the radicalization process--the Alt-Right successfully spun violence-justifying white-nationalist ideologies within online social networks to reach disenchanted young white Americans, including those whose futures seemed promising, which culminated in a string of violent attacks in the summer of 2019."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Cullings, Forrest
2020-06
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Strategic Value of Humanitarian Immigration Policy Toward Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "The United States faces a terrorist threat provoked by an extremist ideology. A greater, more strategic, contribution to the global good would reduce anger toward the United States and enhance constructive alliances. After the events of September 11, 2001, homeland security leaders identified our immigration system as a vulnerability exploited by the terrorists. Consequently, much effort was expended to shore up immigration processes. That same system should also be used as a mechanism to mitigate some of the causes of terrorism. Within U.S. immigration priorities is a commitment to humanitarian protection. Benefits such as resettlement of refugees, grants of asylum, and temporary protected status for victims of armed conflict or natural disasters do not only uphold the moral fabric of the United States. They also provide strategic value toward winning the war against violent extremism. Designing a strategy for humanitarian immigration policy, with the proper risk management principles in place, will promote the long-term security for the United States."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kliska, Jennifer
2008-03
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Model for Effective Organization and Communication of Homeland Security Activities at the State Level
"This thesis is concerned with the optimal state organizational structure to achieve homeland security missions, particular in the state of Wisconsin. It will therefore first review the relevant literature in order to identify a core set of critical homeland security functions germane to states. Four organizational models, as represented by four case states, will be examined to determine which meet those critical functions, to what degree and with what demonstrable success. Wisconsin's current organizational structure for homeland security is evaluated in a gap analysis in that state's capabilities, and finally a set of policy and organizational recommendations are provided for Wisconsin-and indeed other states attempting to meet these core critical functions-to achieve an effective design for organizing and communicating state homeland security activities within a structure that provides a comprehensive response and a stable and unambiguous communications flow pattern."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Smith, Johnnie L.
2007-03
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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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Civil Rights Auditors: Defining Reasonable Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions on First Amendment Activities
From the Thesis Abstract: "Police increasingly encounter citizens who challenge constitutional boundaries between civil rights and police power. These so-called 'civil rights auditors' and 'copwatchers' record government officials with cell phones or body cameras, while baiting or challenging them to cross constitutional lines established by the First Amendment. An officer reacting incorrectly in these encounters can--through action or inaction--create conflict, loss of police legitimacy, or liability for the officers or their agencies. Preliminary examination of auditor activities and current legal and scholarly works leads to the thesis question: What are reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions to civil liberties with regard to recording police, government property, and the public? The author conducts a qualitative analysis of 59 auditor videos representing audits around the nation and identifies common tactics and targets among auditors, which provides scenarios for legal analysis and a policy review. This thesis reveals two things. First, auditors are not part of the legal, scholarly, and policy discussions and decision making; and second, through other areas of First Amendment case law, the Supreme Court has developed a framework for First Amendment challenges that directly applies to auditors. The author applies this framework to the 10 locations commonly targeted by auditors."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Cummings, Gary
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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Looking Beyond the Horizon: Modeling DHS Net Assessment
"This thesis explores the modification of the Department of Defense (DOD) framework and model of net assessment for use by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The DOD uses net assessment to forecast strategically, often decades into the future, to determine where a net advantage or disadvantage exists over its adversaries. The information from such an analysis is then used by the DOD to determine where to best focus its resources in meeting these future adversaries. This thesis utilizes the corollary inputs, analysis, and outputs between DOD and DHS strategic models to visualize a notional framework that can be used to conduct these net assessments for DHS beyond the typical strategic plan timescale. For each DOD input and output, a comparable DHS input and output is selected. An example DHS net assessment is conducted to explore the viability of the model."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Davis, Michael A., Jr.
2020-03
