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Composite Artistry Meets Facial Recognition Technology: Exploring the Use of Facial Recognition Technology To Identify Composite Images
From the thesis abstract: "Forensic art has been used for decades as a tool for law enforcement. When crime witnesses can provide a suspect description, an artist can create a composite drawing in hopes that a member of the public will recognize the subject. In cases where a suspect is captured on film, that photograph can be submitted into a facial recognition program for comparison with millions of possible matches, offering abundant opportunities to identify the suspect. Because composite images are reliant on a chance opportunity for a member of the public to see and recognize the subject depicted, they are unable to leverage the robust number of comparative opportunities associated with facial recognition programs. This research investigates the efficacy of combining composite forensic artistry with facial recognition technology to create a viable investigative tool to identify suspects, as well as better informing artists and program creators on how to improve the success of merging these technologies. This research ultimately reveals that while facial recognition programs can recognize composite renderings, they cannot achieve a level of accuracy that is useful to investigators. It also suggests opportunities to better design facial recognition programs to be more successful in the identification of composite images."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Montgomery, Tracy L.
2011-09
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Federal-Tribal Government Collaboration in Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "Each day, more than fifteen hundred illegal immigrants enter the United States through the tribal lands of the Tohono O'odham Nation, and more than twenty-five other tribes have land on or near the international borders or shorelines of the United States. Beyond borders, tribal lands cover fifty-six million acres of trust lands that include a wide variety of national critical infrastructure, that often provide the backbone of non-tribal regional infrastructure. Although federal-tribal relationships have long been rooted in a unique relationship defined by the sovereignty of each government, the Homeland Security Act of 2002 defines tribal governments as local governments. The shift virtually ignores decades of treaties and U.S. Supreme Court rulings that established the special relationship between tribes and the federal government. Despite the recent addition of the word 'tribal' to many Department of Homeland Security documents, this action fails to outline the mechanisms for collaboration with tribal governments in homeland security programs that adequately reflect and build upon the sovereign status of tribal governments. This research reviews aspects of social trust required for collaboration, explores successful federal-tribal collaboration efforts, and suggests legislative and policy changes that may provide mechanisms necessary for effective federal-tribal collaboration in homeland security."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kueny, Monica
2007-09
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Violent Mexican Transnational Criminal Organizations in Texas: Political Discourse and an Argument for Reality
From the thesis abstract: "In 2006, Mexico President Felipe Calderon, with U.S. assistance, launched a military campaign to combat Violent Mexican Transnational Criminal Organizations in attempt to disrupt the growing violence throughout Mexico. The result has been an uncontrollable drug war that has claimed more lives within Mexico than the U.S. campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq combined. From the U.S. perspective, the threat of spillover violence emanating from Mexico is a wicked problem and one that polarizes the political discourse. Conflicting opinions about the meaning of spillover violence has driven misrepresentation of events and evidence that fuel the political narrative. Therefore, no metric for analysis can be put in place to accurately document and monitor the threat to the U.S. homeland. The term spillover violence, instead, has become the focal point. This research seeks to find a broader framework outside of political agendas that provides analysis in a systematic manner rather than focusing on semantics. This research identifies gaps in the understanding of how spillover violence is defined and captured within the current construct; examines current criminal metrics used to classify and report violent crime statistics; and evaluates the scope of Texas border operations dedicated toward violent crime crossing the Southwestern border."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Rush, Mathew C.
2012-09
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Civil Restitution as an Objective of Department of Homeland Security Mission 3
From the thesis abstract: "Rates of illegal immigration recidivism by previously convicted and removed noncitizens--criminal immigration recidivists--are disconcerting. Enforcement strategies such as prosecution and removals do not appear to prevent and deter this population's reoffending behavior as much as expected. Meanwhile, resources are continually strained--at the taxpayers' expense--due to re-enforcement of immigration, criminal, and other laws. As a result, this thesis argues in favor of introducing civil restitution (CR) as an enforcement strategy against criminal immigration recidivism. In support of this argument, the author employed a hybrid experimental and causal design methodology to research the history of restitution as an alternative sanction in the criminal justice system. The feasibility of developing a strategy against criminal immigration recidivism modeled after restitution's theoretical underpinnings was explored and tested. The CR strategy borrows from restitution's focus on holding offenders accountable for the financial losses their offenses have caused to their victims, and, as per the research findings, its potential to lower recidivism rates, thereby reducing the costs of re-enforcing or reinitiating the removal process at the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) expense. The thesis concludes by recommending the implementation of a CR policy model strategy. The strategy will become part of the DHS Mission 3's 'prevention of unlawful immigration' goals and objectives."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Calcaño, Niurka Y.
2014-06
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Being Social: Integrating Social Media into Public Information Support to Emergency Response #smem
From the thesis abstract: "Emergency response agencies across the homeland security spectrum rely on their public information offices to leverage social media in support of citizens and response organizations during times of disaster. Do these public information practitioners have the guidance and tools necessary to represent their organizations effectively in times of emergency? To answer this question, this thesis reviews social media policies at the local, state, federal and international emergency response agency levels, specifically looking at guidance provided for crisis communications social media use during and after a disaster. Case studies on the how social media are used during and after a disaster are studied from the various perspectives. Finally, this research examines additional considerations for social media and emergency response. The policy review and case studies find a disparity between what is expected of our emergency response agency communicators and the guidance provided to them to meet the needs of our citizens and organizations in a time of disaster. This gap between policy and action leaves room for miscommunication and inconsistencies that must be addressed. This thesis concludes with research analysis, addressing that information gap and provides a policy template for normal conditions and emergency response events."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Spicer, Tamara L.
2013-03
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Twituational Awareness: Gaining Situational Awareness Via Crowdsourced #Disaster Epidemiology
From the thesis abstract: "Public health and other agencies need situational awareness to respond effectively to disasters or other incidents. Traditional means of obtaining this information require significant time and personnel. Social media is becoming increasingly popular among American citizens, and research is demonstrating that it may be a useful tool for bolstering information about unfolding events. This research analyzed the potential of the microblogging service Twitter in providing situational awareness. Tweets from a major snowstorm affecting the state of Massachusetts were collected, coded for content, and compared to traditional public health methods. The results indicate that Twitter can provide a rich source of data for responding agencies. Still, the immense volume of conversations makes extracting useful information in a timely manner a significant challenge. Practical approaches uncovered during this research can help agencies with nascent social media surveillance programs begin to unearth the valuable information that Twitter contains. Collaboration with information technology experts could allow public health and other responding agencies to create even greater value from social meechdia platforms."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Cain, Daniel T.
2013-09
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Arizona Border Wall Case Study
From the thesis abstract: "Illegal immigration is a popular topic. Obtaining operational control of the southwest border and adding infrastructure was deemed necessary and important when Congress voted for the Secure Fence Act in 2006. This thesis determines how much, and where, additional infrastructure should be added. How effective can a border wall or fence be in securing the U.S.-Mexico border? Under what circumstances are walls and fences effective? When are other types of security measures more effective? The Yuma and Tucson sectors are examined to determine the current border infrastructure's effectiveness using arrest and geographical data. Current border infrastructure, the complete wall system's cost, and results realized in reducing illegal crossings are reviewed. Government documents, congressional testimonies, and think-tank analyses are analyzed. This thesis focused on barriers and tactical infrastructure on the southwest border. It found that a wall or fence is a viable option to improve the security of some border sections. The Yuma sector is already under operational control and is lower priority. The Tucson sector is higher priority and needs additional infrastructure. It is recommended that all urban and rural zones under 80 percent effectiveness be upgraded to modern fencing, while very remote areas below 80 percent effectiveness remain exempt if zone activity stays low."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Bristow, Justin Alexander
2017-12
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Weapons of Mass Distraction: Strategies for Countering the Paper Terrorism of Sovereign Citizens
From the thesis abstract: "Sovereign citizens and other anti-government groups affect the judicial system through a tactic known as 'paper terrorism,' clogging the courts with nonsensical, voluminous filings, phony lawsuits, and false liens against public officials as a form of harassment and intimidation. This behavior is sometimes a precursor to violence. As such, this thesis examines legislative measures in various jurisdictions to thwart paper terrorism, particularly directed against the courts and judicial officials. An exploration of the origins of the movement's history, tactics, violent tendencies, and ideology provides an understanding of the mindset behind this behavior, which, in turn, informs recommendations for prevention and deterrence. Comparative analysis of available policy solutions endeavors to validate this hypothesis. The analysis targets five states for further study. A survey of court professionals provides insight into the depth of the problem and effectiveness of solutions. The findings of this project suggest that no single solution is completely effective; still, this research concludes with recommendations for multiple levels of legislation and administrative procedures."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
March-Safbom, Terri A.
2018-03
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Software Requirement Specifications for a Social-Media Threat Assessment Tool
From the thesis abstract: "Police officers are often the targets of threats, both verbal and written. Twitter and Facebook allow the communications of these threats quickly, anonymously and in high volume. Law enforcement agencies become overwhelmed trying to determine which are the most serious, since they have limited investigators. Identifying threats that have a high likelihood of violence is also very subjective. How can risk assessment of these threats be improved? As an answer to this question, a software-requirement specification document details a new software that starts the threat assessment process earlier. This software incorporates a social media and language sentiment analyzer, criminal history information and threshold, and confidence scoring to alert law enforcement of threats likely to end in violence. Twitter and Facebook posts that reach a predetermined score alert investigators of a high probability threat on which investigators can focus their efforts. During the development of the software proposal, this thesis finds that implementing this software could improve law enforcement intervention to threats communicated over social media."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Barnett, Craig T.
2017-12
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Federated Search Tools in Fusion Centers: Bridging Databases in the Information Sharing Environment
From the thesis abstract: "This research utilized a semi-structured survey instrument delivered to subject matter experts within the national network of fusion centers and employed a constant comparison method to analyze the survey results. This 'smart practice' exploration informed through an appreciative inquiry lens found considerable variation in how fusion centers plan for, gather requirements, select and acquire federated search tools to bridge disparate databases. These findings confirmed the initial hypothesis that fusion centers have received very little guidance on how to bridge disconnected databases to enhance the analytical process. This research should contribute to the literature by offering a greater understanding of the challenges faced by fusion centers, when considering integrating federated search tools; by evaluating the importance of the planning, requirements gathering, selection and acquisition processes for integrating federated search tools; by acknowledging the challenges faced by some fusion centers during these integration processes; and identifying possible solutions to mitigate those challenges. As a result, the research will be useful to individual fusion centers and more broadly, the National Fusion Center Association, which provides leadership to the national network of fusion centers by sharing lessons learned, smart practices, and other policy guidance."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Wormet, Jody R.
2012-09
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U.S. Refugee Policy in the Era of Homeland Security: A Comparative Government Analysis
From the thesis abstract: "U.S. immigration and refugee policy reform has stalled due to competing national narratives. Claims that refugees harm the U.S. economy and national security are in direct conflict with the country's historical national identity and values, and this is apparent in the public discourse. This thesis explores the validity of these claims and provides a comparative analysis with Canada and Germany, both of which are democratic Western societies facing similar issues. It answers the question of what U.S. policy makers can learn from the refugee policies of Canada and Germany and makes 11 recommendations for the United States based on this analysis. This thesis finds the claims that refugees negatively impact a country's economy and national security in the United States, Canada, and Germany to be unfounded. Basing U.S. refugee policy on unfounded claims harms U.S. standing and credibility in the international community as well as deprives it of the economic and safety benefits of admitting and properly integrating refugees into U.S. society."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Kuczera, Reiss
2017-12
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Humans, Intelligent Technology, and Their Interface: A Study of Brown's Point
From the thesis abstract: "The integration of self-driving vehicles introduces a unique and unprecedented human-machine interface that brings promise and peril. Several socially constructed theories try to explain this human-intelligent machine interface and predict how the future will look. This thesis offers a counter-narrative called Brown's Point that suggests an alternative way of thinking about this relationship. The first Autopilot fatality offers a window into the human considerations needing attention as these intelligent machines, such as self-driving vehicles, combine with humans. How can the human-machine interface be optimized to ensure it offers the most benefit and safety for humanity? This thesis investigated the causal variables that led to the first Autopilot fatality by using Joshua Brown's interface with the technology before and during the accident. I combined the findings from the accident investigation with various heuristics regarding the human-machine interface, theories from cognitive psychology, and sociological constructs to determine how Brown came to trust a machine he knew was fallible."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
White, Jackie L. J.
2017-12
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Case for State and Local Integration of the Separate Federal Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program
From the Thesis Abstract: "This thesis provides an overview and policy options analysis of offsite radiological emergency preparedness and response protocols for commercial nuclear power plants. This program is developed by the federal government and implemented by state and local government emergency management as the Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program (REPP). The capabilities built under the separate REPP, if integrated within the wider emergency preparedness enterprise, could be properly accounted for and included in a community-wide assessment of its aggregate capabilities within its existing all-hazards program. The research question for this thesis addresses which benefits, shortfalls, and challenges emerge from the integration of the hazard-specific emergency preparedness and response program established under REPP with the all-hazards core capabilities and the National Preparedness System doctrine. The research design utilizes a logic model framework to facilitate the process of evaluating different policy options and approaches to an emergency preparedness and response program for nuclear power plants in the United States. The conclusion of the research is to augment the existing REPP protocol with a robust means to measure capability and performance, which is modeled as a policy proposal to use an oversight framework and measurable site-specific performance indicators tied to probabilistic risk assessment."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Heckard, Matthew K.
2019-12
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Nuclear Deterrence and North Korea―Dissuasion or Persuasion?
From the Thesis Abstract: "The threat of nuclear war has been a possibility since the first atomic device was invented during World War II. From the end of World War II through the Cold War period, the greatest risk of nuclear proliferation was between the main superpowers at the time, the United States and the Soviet Union. U.S. nuclear deterrence doctrine promised mutually assured destruction (MAD): if the Soviets were to launch a nuclear missile at the United States, the United States would retaliate in such a way to ensure the annihilation of the Soviet Union. The global economic, social, and political environment has changed since the end of the Cold War; however, the threat of atomic warfare still exists with the emergence of the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea as a nuclear threat. This thesis explores the question of whether the doctrine developed during the Cold War is still valid: Is the U.S. nuclear strategy sufficient to deter North Korea from attacking the United States and its allies in the East Asian region? In formulating an answer to the question, the author analyzed the motivations, perceptions, and intentions of North Korea's regime from the country's formation to present day. While it is clear that the original Cold War MAD doctrine will not work for North Korea, it is recommended that the right combination of MAD elements, conventional forces, UN sanctions, and negotiations will provide a chance for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula to become a reality."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Vaughn, Steve
2019-12
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Engaging Children and Youth, Via K-12 School Curricula, to Build a Culture of Disaster Preparedness
From the Thesis Abstract: "Despite the impacts of natural disasters increasing across the United States, a significant percentage of Americans remain unprepared for disasters. Children and youth are disproportionally impacted by these events, but they also have the potential to be major assets in disaster preparedness. This thesis analyzes how to engage children and youth to facilitate behavioral change and build a culture of disaster preparedness. A comparative analysis of primary and secondary school curricula for disaster preparedness content, including case studies from the United States, France, and New Zealand, establishes a set of evaluation criteria, including curriculum scope; engaged learning; parental, school, and community involvement; and effective evaluation. This thesis finds that the United States could improve and expand existing curricula, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Student Tools for Emergency Planning program, and work to integrate disaster preparedness curricula into existing school safety and mandatory public health curriculum requirements. By reaching children and youth with disaster preparedness information, the United States can work to shift values and social norms around the topic, similar to past successes seen with such issues as anti-smoking and seatbelt enforcement."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Hayward, Kimberly A.
2019-12
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Optimize or Die: Dynamic and Innovative Deployment Models for Fire Departments
From the Thesis Abstract: "This thesis analyzes current fire department practices and explores how resource deployments can be modified by innovation and optimization to result in improved services to customers. Alternative response vehicles, mobile integrated healthcare, technology adoption, accreditation, and leveraging data for policy analysis are five opportunities examined in this thesis with data used from 10 fire departments, including Dayton Fire Department. The findings show that implementing alternative vehicles for responding to medical emergencies, leveraging technology, and using data for policy implementation to adopt a mobile integrated healthcare program may decrease the cost of providing services and improve response times to meet national standards. These findings may be beneficial to fire departments across the country that are experiencing budget reductions coupled with increased demand for services."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
McCoy, Tyler B.
2019-12
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Lived and Remembered Experiences: Policing to Improve Relations with Communities of Color
From the Thesis Abstract: "Critical race theory (CRT) contends that U.S. structures and institutions have created a society in which White superiority and Black subjugation are widespread. Law enforcement--far from supporting justice--has been a primary source of oppression and marginalization of Black people. Drawing on CRT, this thesis examines the U.S. history of policing and its role in enforcing racism through policing practices. A CRT lens shows how the racialized policing of the past persists in contemporary policing. This perspective suggests that Black individuals experience trauma through encounters with the police, and the history and contemporary reality of racialized policing erode trust between the police and Black people. This thesis argues that if police officers were trained to understand the history of racialized policing and the brutality it has waged against Blacks--and the ways current policing implicitly mimic the explicit racist practices of the past--then policing could change for the better. Following the recommendations of the 21st Century Policing report, this thesis suggests that police officers need to develop 'critical empathy,' an educated, empathic awareness of the history of racialized policing and the trauma it produces, if police are to become guardians of individuals and communities of color."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Elow, Christine A.
2019-12
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Introducing Artificial Intelligence into the United States Law Enforcement Community: Learning from Foreign Law Enforcement Agencies
From the Thesis Abstract: "This research explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can be successfully incorporated into a U.S. law enforcement agency by focusing on AI's challenges and limitations. Some of those challenges include a lack of current information about AI in this setting, particularly in the United States, and legal considerations. This thesis examines how the Dubai Police have implemented AI, compares U.S. law enforcement approaches to AI with those of foreign agencies, and ultimately creates a model framework that law enforcement agencies in the United States can use to incorporate AI into their practices."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Lalley, Ana Z.
2019-12
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Revitalizing Maritime Security: Is Smart the Next Element?
From the Thesis Abstract: "Project Seahawk is a multiagency program that brings state-of-the-art technology and a regional approach to the problem of port security critical infrastructure in Charleston, South Carolina. Project Seahawk, now known as the Seahawk Interagency Operation Center (IOC), is alive within the confines of the United States Coast Guard, albeit as a smaller project. The Special Maritime Action Response Team (SMART) would be a multidisciplinary, multiagency unit that protects the maritime domain of South Carolina using intelligence gathered by the Seahawk IOC. This thesis examines potential challenges to the process of forming SMART with the Seahawk IOC, particularly the security capability gaps in the maritime domain with federal, state, and local stakeholders due to insufficient manpower and funding. The SMART concept will use elements of National Security Presidential Directive 41 and Homeland Security Presidential Directive 13 as a baseline for evaluating the maritime security capability. The SMART concept will make Seahawk more efficient in handling maritime criminal threats to radiation detection in Charleston by providing the first responder with an avenue of options. The Seahawk IOC addresses the security capability gaps, but SMART will be more effective in the Lowcountry maritime domain. Together, the Seahawk IOC and SMART will be a one-stop shop for interagency maritime security in Charleston."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Makins, Marion C., Jr.
2019-12
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Seminaries in the System: The Effects of Prison Seminaries on Recidivism, Inmate vi olence, and Costs
From the Thesis Abstract: "Rehabilitation is one of the main goals of the correctional system, with numerous and varied programs being implemented for centuries. The United States spends millions on rehabilitation programs, yet recidivism rates, prison violence, and correctional costs continue to rise. This thesis explores how prison seminaries are addressing these issues and in the process, changing inmates' attitudes and behaviors. Examining Angola, the first prison seminary that became a model for many subsequent prison seminaries, including interviews with inmates and prison staff, reveals how inmates' attitudes and behaviors changed as a result of their seminary. Similar programs that follow Angola's model were also reviewed to determine if there was a reduction in acts of violence and a change in inmates' prosocial behaviors as a result of the programs. This thesis analyzed quantitative evidence in the form of prison statistics and inmate conduct records to determine if prison seminaries lower rates of recidivism as well as inmate violence. Legal case studies were used to evaluate the constitutionality of prison seminaries. Finally, this thesis identified reasons why prison seminaries are changing the overall culture of prisons, including individual identity transformations, the activities of inmate ministers, and participation in religious activities. The findings reveal prison seminaries are reducing both recidivism rates and inmate violence, which reduces the overall costs of incarceration."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Dotson, Roy D.
2019-12
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Rico: Analyzing the Use of Federal Law to Combat Local Gang Problems
From the Thesis Abstract: "Gangs are the main contributor to violent crime in the United States. In an attempt to combat such violent crime, the federal government has begun prosecuting street-level gangs with the federal racketeering (RICO) statutes. Although these statutes were developed to address more traditional white-collar crime, the criminalizing of ongoing racketeering activity in a criminal enterprise has successfully been used to prosecute street-level gangs. This thesis provides a review of the scholarly literature on the topic, most of which is biased and averse to the RICO statutes' use in this context. This thesis also evaluates criticisms and concerns on the topic. Federal laws and procedures were analyzed during a comparative analysis of different court systems, which revealed a distinct advantage for federal courts in the investigation and prosecution of violent street gangs. Additionally, the use of the federal racketeering statutes by three different jurisdictions--New York, New York; Detroit, Michigan; and Montebello, California--was researched and analyzed. The research found that use of the RICO statutes facilitated law enforcement initiatives that reduced violent crime and homicides in all three jurisdictions."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Ryerson, Gene W.
2019-12
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Integrating the Fire Service into the Domestic Intelligence Enterprise: A Systems Thinking Approach
From the Thesis Abstract: "In the nearly two decades since the attacks on September 11, 2001, there have been numerous attempts to improve fire service integration at virtually all levels of government. While none have succeeded in solving this wicked problem on their own, each has done a great deal to frame the problem of fire service integration while addressing key areas of integration. In merging these individual contributions into a holistic, unified effort, a pathway forward has begun to emerge. The first step in addressing the complex problem of fire service integration is to break from the traditional reductionist problem-solving methodologies commonly found in government in favor of systems thinking to bring about the desired change. Systems thinking provides a framework for understanding the complex interactions that are both internal and external to an organization. Within the systems thinking field, the congruence model best addresses the unique, complex nature of integration efforts. Beyond the central aim of integrating the fire service into the domestic intelligence enterprise, the congruence model and, more broadly, systems thinking show promise in guiding organizations that face changes or seek new and unique ways to tackle today's and tomorrow's wicked problems."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Falkner, Kyle L.
2019-12
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Significance of Fire Service Culture as an Impediment to Effective Leadership in the Homeland Security Environment
From the thesis abstract: "The tragic loss of 343 firefighters on 9/11 monumentally illustrates that firefighters now stand on the front line in the war against terror. The ramifications of 9/11 forced fire service leaders to incorporate newly recognized strategies of terrorism management and mitigation into traditional firefighting roles. Blue-collared manual laborers are no longer the archetype of modern firefighters. Instead, firefighters now command with expanded leadership roles within society and the desire to achieve increased levels of local, regional and national preparedness. This thesis explores the various aspects of fire service culture that negatively impacts organizational leadership, cultural transformation and the fire services current mission within the homeland security domain. This thesis starts by providing a detailed description of the elements epitomized by fire service culture. It then examines how both internal and external sociological factors contribute to the perpetuation of fire service culture. Finally, this thesis provides an implementation strategy leaders might utilized when attempting to administer organizational change processes. This author concludes that while leaders might provide a guiding organizational vision, they are but one factor influencing organizational culture. Changes occur when both formal and informal leaders agree upon reasonable organizational goals and orchestrate small cultural shifts when attempting to achieve those goals."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Cox, Alan Thomas
2012-03
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Violent Islamic Radicalization Process: A Framework for Understanding
From the thesis abstract: "The violent Islamic radicalization process is understood differently across disciplines within the homeland security enterprise. Radicalization of U.S. citizens is an emerging threat within the homeland. Current theories and models of the radicalization process offer a linear progression or focus heavily on religious behaviors. When those processes are relied upon to inform policy or procedures for interdiction, civil liberties issues arise. Some theories or models rely on a demographic profile of terrorists. Research suggests that a demographic profile of terrorists is nonexistent. This study analyzes prevailing theories and models that explain radicalization. Using appreciative inquiry, a framework is identified that comprehensively captures the contributions of various theories and models that compose and best explain the dynamics of the radicalization and mobilization process. The identified framework, developed by the National Counterterrorism Center, is comprehensive and suitable for informing training, and counter-radicalization policies and measures within the United States. This research examines radicalization strategies from abroad, as well as studies that identify behavioral indicators of radicalization and mobilization, which establish the basis for future research for behavioral profiling of terrorists. This research recommends a counter-radicalization policy theme that begins with the development of radicalization process expertise and understanding across the homeland security enterprise."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Keys-Turner, Karen D.
2011-12
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Southwest Hispanic Community-The Absence of Homeland Security Threats
From the thesis abstract: "Threats of terrorism and insurgency along the Southwest border are typically supported by anecdotal evidence rather than objective assessments of such threats, which limit the ability to appropriately address issues related to homeland security, such as immigration enforcement and border security. This thesis provides an objective assessment of the potential for terrorist and insurgent threats to emanate from within the Southwest Hispanic Community by reviewing the status of and pressures upon the community using Social Identity Theory and Resource Mobilization Theory. Data indicates that Hispanics in the Southwest typically experience greater disparities in sociocultural, economic, and political conditions due to regional ethnic concentration. External and internal pressures, represented by immigration policy and mandates for language usage, also have greater impact upon the community. Social Identity Theory provides a means for understanding 'why' social movement form, while Resource Mobilization Theory provides insight into 'how' movements are created. The potential for radicalization is also examined to determine if violent movements can develop from otherwise nonviolent movements or communities. Despite disparities and significant pressure, the conclusion is that there are no current homeland security threats of terrorism or insurgency and the adoption of omnicultural policies can further reduce what limited potential may exist."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Moore, Alan G.
2012-12
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Suicide Terrorism in America?: The Complex Social Conditions of This Phenomenon and the Implications for Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "This research applies social identity and intergroup relations theory to the phenomenon of suicide terrorism and develops a framework that can be used to better understand the threat of suicide terrorism and the implications for United States homeland security. Suicide terrorism is growing worldwide and is becoming more geographically diverse. Traditional studies of suicide terrorism tend to seek causal explanations of the phenomenon. This research uses a grounded theory approach to study the phenomenon that seeks to offer insight, enhance understanding, and provide a meaningful framework for understanding. The findings of this research recommend an alternate framework for understanding suicide terrorism based on the application of social identity theory and intergroup relations theory. Through the identification of alternative normative accounts in the choices that individuals make, this research is able to identify the complex social conditions of suicide terrorism and argues that the phenomenon is driven by powerful socio-cultural systems that prey on an individual's basic identity needs."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Fleece, Richard J.
2012-12
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'Dirty Bomb' Attack: Assessing New York City's Level of Preparedness from a First Responder's Perspective
From the thesis abstract: "Past history and recent intelligence have shown that New York City (NYC), a critical node of the U.S. economy, is clearly in the terrorist's crosshairs. In order to reduce the probability, lessen the risk, and minimize the consequences of a Radiological Dispersion Device (RDD), or 'dirty bomb,' attack, NYC's first responders must be adequately prepared for its seemingly inevitable occurrence. This particular type of attack on NYC has the potential to create immense panic and confusion on behalf of the general public. Adding to the complexity of the problem is the notion that, since 9/11, the expected actions taken by employees in NYC high-rise office buildings in response to shelter-in-place instructions can be extremely difficult to predict. Therefore, a proposed public awareness campaign and a shelter-in-place plan are two cost-effective and easily implemented terrorism preparedness programs that would build the confidence and increase the capability of the citizenry. Since an RDD incident would likely result in a major inter-agency emergency operation, the unification of command, control, and coordination among NYC's first responder community is an essential element to its overall success. Hence, an informed and collaborative response by both public and private sector entities could potentially reduce casualties and save lives."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Sudnik, John
2006-03
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Preparedness Web: Regional Collaborative Networks for Homeland Security Preparedness
From the thesis abstract: "This case study is offered with the purpose of informing the initiation of regional collaborative efforts nationwide. This research effort examines a network of networks, called here a Preparedness Web, utilized to meet locally identified regional homeland security preparedness needs. How and why these networks were established is documented to allow other regions to draw parallels to their own situations. A measurement of the systems collaborative capacity is identified to validate the systems functionality. Recommendations are offered for other regions considering collaborative efforts based upon a retrospective examination of the system originators' strategic intent. To the extent to which this effort can be used to illustrate successful collaboration, on a national basis, it presents a replicable 'ground up' process designed to entice more agencies to undertake or enhance their own regional collaborative preparedness efforts."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Holbrook, Christopher C.
2007-09
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Applying Psychosocial Theories of Terrorism to the Radicalization Process: A Mapping of De La Corte's Seven Principles to Homegrown Radicals
From the thesis abstract: "This study contains an application of psychosocial theories to the process of radicalization among Muslim militants (jihadis) with a history of activity in the United States. Drawing extensively from De la Corte's seven psychosocial principles of terrorism, the study codes each principle into a corresponding example from case studies of American jihadism. The end result is the use of theory to create a new empirical and psychosocial perspective into homegrown jihadism. The application of De la Corte's theory is also used as a framework to suggest frameworks for detection, intervention, and interdiction when it comes to homegrown jihadi activity."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Vargas, Alejandro, Jr.
2011-06
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Internet Radicalization: Actual Threat or Phantom Menace?
From the thesis abstract: "Popular opinion expresses fear that accessing radical Islamic content and connecting with extremist networks through Internet functionalities causes radicalization and recruitment to commit terrorist acts. Anecdotal evidence has been used to support this assertion. The opinion assumes the Internet creates a new path that drives radicalization and recruitment. Whether computer-mediated communication (CMC) and Internet functionalities cause individuals to radicalize has not been thoroughly studied. This thesis explores whether a correlation can be found to attribute radicalization to radicalizing content and extremist networks accessed through CMC and Internet functionalities. A framework is used to evaluate vulnerabilities identified by the psychological, sociological and social-psychological elements of radicalization against the radicalization process, personal history, and the presence of radicalizing conventional communication and extremist contact. The analysis finds three cases that may support a conclusion that Internet radicalization is possible; however, the importance of root causes and individual vulnerabilities may have a greater impact. Since some circumstances involving CMC may increase the likelihood of radicalization, the fear of Internet radicalization may be reasonable, but the number of incidents validating that fear makes the threat unlikely, and appears more as a phantom menace than a real threat."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Mealer, Michael J.
2012-09
