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Funding Homeland Security Programs at the State Level: A Multiple Policy Analysis
From the thesis abstract: "The issue of future funding at the state level for prevention, mitigation, and response programs is on the horizon in the emerging discipline of homeland security studies. This thesis answers the question, how can states sustain the funding of homeland security programs? Therefore, this paper examines two voluntary, non-legislative policy options for capacity, fairness/transparency, and public and political threshold of payment in lieu of taxes [PILOT] programs applied to large, community benefit nonprofits. These two variations are based on the premise that large property holding, property tax exempt organizations are disproportionately advantaged under current law and that they consume municipal services for which they do not pay. This policy option analysis reveals that PILOT programs are a viable option for sustainment funding of homeland security programs at the state and/or local level. While these options are not conclusively appropriate for all jurisdictions, they do merit further examination in areas that are highly dependent on property tax to finance the operations of public safety services. The final recommendation of this thesis is that while these programs may not work at the state level, they may provide the necessary funding to sustain homeland security programs when applied at the local level."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Suarez, Robert R.
2014-12
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'The Buck Stops Where?' Aligning Authority to Strategy in Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines how having authority to make decisions in different levels of an organization affects performance. The homeland security implications of this study are that the agencies responsible for homeland security are commonly structured along a rigid hierarchy with authorities accumulated at the top. This slow-moving structure is compared to more decentralized and flexible organizations found in private industry and in some foreign governments. Organizational performance can be predicted by examining how the level of operating environment instability is matched to an organization's decision-making authorities. Using case study analysis, coupled with an extensive literature review, this thesis concludes that the more turbulent the potential environment, such as in the case of a terrorist threat or natural disaster, the more decentralized the organizations should be. The conclusion recognizes the political reality that Congress and executive leaders are not going to easily devolve authority to lower levels in organizations. Therefore, the study concludes with recommendations that agencies dealing in uncertain and changing environments be more loosely coupled at lower levels, allowing more decision-making authority to street-level operators while maintaining ultimate authority at upper levels. Finally, the thesis also recommends additional study of decentralizing strategies specific to homeland security agencies."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Swearingen, Brent D.
2015-12
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Putting the Critical Back in Critical Infrastructure
From the thesis abstract: "In the context of national critical infrastructure security and resilience doctrine and deference to our federalist system and the sovereignty it demands, each of the sovereign states and their subdivisions have unilaterally interpreted their roles and priorities while still remaining true to the law of the land and national supremacy as demanded by the supremacy clause in Article VI of the United States Constitution. Each has independently structured, developed, and resourced its own critical infrastructure security and resilience program. Due to this subjective and evolving nature of the critical infrastructure security and resilience mission nationally, a qualitative research method was best suited and used for the foundational nature of this work. A formative program evaluation was conducted through an anonymous online survey to capture the perceptions and views of critical infrastructure professionals across the nation. The survey included an evaluation on the perceptions and views of the business process, program maturity and implementation, as well as the current state of outcomes. This thesis concludes with several key findings and recommendations based on the respondent survey data and analysis."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Mason, Bradford C.
2015-12
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Emergency Preparedness Coordination Challenges for Metropolitan Transportation Centers
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis evaluates emergencies that are likely to occur in metropolitan transportation centers and the challenges emergency managers face when preparing for them. Specifically examining nine co-located transportation agencies in California's San Francisco Bay Area, the research identifies methods emergency managers can use to enhance preparedness coordination and collaboration across multiple transportation agencies where, despite their different governance structures and base locations, operations overlap. The author examined best practices among existing emergency preparedness documents and offers six recommendations that can enhance cross-agency coordination: 1) adopting an all-hazards approach, 2) defining a common method, 3) involving the 'whole community' in preparedness activities, 4) enhancing resource-allocation techniques, 5) establishing a method for continuity of operations in a combined emergency operations center, and 6) hardening existing infrastructure. Going forward, the nine agencies in the study area must establish a year-long pilot program to evaluate emergency preparedness methods, which should include regular table-top exercises and the eventual establishment of a regional transportation emergency operations center (RTEOC). These exercises will also help the agencies establish clear roles and responsibilities, which will provide the public with better protection during emergencies."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Raines, Marcia
2018-06
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Policy in Conflict: The Struggle Between Environmental Policy and Homeland Security Goals
From the thesis abstract: "Since the 1970s, every American president and many Congressional leaders have called for 'national energy independence' as a top policy priority. Among many reasons the United States (U.S.) has been unable to deliver on this goal over four decades are certain environmental policies that may tend to inhibit efficiency in fuel consumption of vehicles. This study examines the unintended consequences of certain environmental policies for American homeland security. The analyses suggest that some environmental policies may have a deleterious effect on the ability of the United States to achieve a level of energy efficiency in the transportation sector that could contribute to achieving 'national energy security.' This study suggests ways to achieve a level of sustainable energy security by reducing consumption in the most important petroleum consuming sector, that of automobile transportation. Some U.S. oil dollars may be directly supporting terrorist organizations or, at a minimum, go toward supporting the spread of radical Islamic Salafism that is inimical to U.S. and Western interests. This inquiry examines evidence to show that America's continuing dependence on other foreign oil, especially oil from the Middle East, is perilous to homeland security and compels limits to U.S. freedom of action in foreign affairs."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Cowden, Daniel R.
2013-09
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Advancing U.S. Foreign Policy Through Homeland Security: The Logic for International Training and Professional Exchanges
From the thesis abstract: "The role of soft power in U.S. foreign policy has become a common theme amongst government agencies. International training and professional exchanges are a part of soft power. Since the egregious attacks on 9/11, many have argued for an increase in this tool of statecraft. This thesis reviews the role of soft power in U.S. foreign policy and how that pertains to homeland security. Specifically, the study notes the importance of international military and law enforcement training and how these exchanges can enhance U.S. security and advance foreign policy. Moreover, the research reviews models of current Department of Defense international training efforts for consideration by the Department of Homeland Security. The many professional exchanges and international training efforts from agencies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Coast Guard, and the International Law Enforcement Academies are also reviewed. A model for an international program to take place at the Global Borders College is presented. In conclusion, the paper will argue that through attraction and influence, the U.S. will be better suited for security in the future. Furthermore, the encouraging of international training and exchanges will assist in improving U.S. multilateral relationships in the twenty-first century."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Traina, Dominic J.,III
2013-12
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Message in a Battle: An Analysis of Presidential Communication Since 9/11
From the thesis abstract: "The use of public diplomacy is an essential component of counterterrorism efforts but, to date, the United States has not been as effective in its attempts to utilize strategic communication against the threat of violent Islamic extremism as it has been in its utilization of military, intelligence, and law enforcement resources. Based upon the idea that a retrospective analysis of previous presidential speeches could provide guidance for future strategic communications of U.S. government officials, this thesis identifies the nature of the message delivered by U.S. Presidents to foreign audiences since the 9/11 attacks through a qualitative analysis of a purposeful sampling of 50 speeches and statements. The analysis examines the position of the United States government in the ideological debate with violent Islamic extremists to determine whether the United States has taken a largely defensive stance, in which the United States constantly strives to counter the narrative of violent extremist adversaries, or a more forward-leaning posture, in which the United States remains primarily concerned with presenting its own narrative based on its values and ideals. The results of this analysis are then utilized to offer recommendations on modifying the message to better support U.S. efforts to combat violent Islamic extremism."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Maguire, Jacqueline
2013-03
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Protecting America Through Better Civic Education
From the thesis abstract: "How does civic education affect homeland security? A civic education curriculum that provides for the foundations of our youths' individual and collective identity may significantly contribute to the preservation of our democracy and enhance homeland security. Through a civic education, students can enhance their grasp of the concepts of our American representative democracy and learn the tenets of good citizenship, critical thinking, and the ability to self-govern. Presidential Directive Number Eight (8) clearly indicates the need for national preparedness using a whole of nation approach. The plan requires robust citizen engagement. To have an informed engaged citizenry and for a democracy to thrive, the populace must be educated. But there is no guidance or mention of the education of American youth or how such education may play a role in achieving the goals of national preparedness. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reported in 2010 that only 27 percent of the nation's fourth-grade students were proficient in civics. Only 22 percent and 24 percent of eighth-grade and twelfth-grade students, respectively, were proficient in the area. Civic education must provide youth with a personal and collective identity."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Ravert, Brian P.
2013-09
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Imagining a Shift Toward Serial Terrorism
From the thesis abstract: "Most terrorist attacks in recent years have resulted in the quick death or capture of the suspect. This thesis examines the hypothesis that terrorism in the United States, from groups such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS [Islamic State in Syria], changes in tone, scope, and scale to obtain multiple attacks from each individual adherent. While historically most serial killers try to conceal their crimes, some have taunted the government and the populace with their acts and, in so doing, engendered tremendous fear in large groups of people over significant periods. This thesis examines three cases of well-known serial killer events--the Zodiac killer, BTK [blind, torture, kill], and the D.C. Beltway snipers--and compares them to three recent cases of terrorism--in Boston, San Bernardino, and Orlando. It employs a comprehensive comparison of these six incidents to study the congruency, differences, discourse, patterns, and effects of each to examine the possible impacts and implications of terrorists who use tactics similar to serial killers. The output provides key takeaways pertaining to possible policy implications for the law enforcement community and its situational awareness."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Pedrini, Christopher J.
2018-09
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Disruptive Emergent Systems in Disaster Response
From the Thesis Abstract: "The 2017 hurricanes in the southern United States provided an impetus for wider social technology use than during previous disaster responses. Hurricane survivors rapidly turned to social media for help, while physically unaffected social media users crowdsourced emergent crisis mapping systems. Volunteers unaffiliated with first responder organizations conducted rescues based on those systems to form new response systems. These new, disruptive emergent systems displaced, supplemented, or filled gaps in the established, federally managed responses. This research examined disruptive emergent systems and associated effects on disaster responses. A total of thirteen disruptive emergent systems from four hurricane responses were analyzed. This research resulted in a set of eight features and an ontological visualization of disruptive emergent systems. The results show that disruptive emergent systems demonstrated supply responses to survivor demand. That is, these systems emerged through particular capability and organizational mechanism conditions to satisfy survivor demands. Cultural motivations provided the call to action for many of these disruptive emergent systems. These features can be used to understand disruptive emergent systems in the context of future disaster responses."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Thornburg, Kristopher M.
2019-03
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Unauthorized Disclosure - Can Behavioral Indicators Help Predict Who Will Commit Unauthorized Disclosure of Classified National Security Information
From the thesis abstract: "Federal government security-cleared personnel have been disclosing federal government classified national security information, whether to a foreign government or the United States media, at an increasing rate since the 1980s. Can common personal or psychological characteristics or motivations be identified from historical cases that could indicate the likelihood of a current or potential federal employee to disclose national security information without authorization? Reasons for unauthorized disclosure range from financial, to 'whistle-blowing,' to a desire to change international policy, to sympathy and strong ties with a foreign government. The focus of this research is on the behavioral characteristics that are similar or different between known, studied historical cases of personnel associated with the federal government who have disclosed classified information without authorization. Upon review of existing data, the prevalent behavioral characteristic of the cases is one of a disgruntled employee (ideology/ disillusionment/loyalty). A disgruntled employee becomes the largest concern as an insider threat, one who is willing to compromise his or her feelings of loyalty to the organization and the nation for a myriad of reasons."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Sims, Karen Elizabeth
2015-06
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Ethical Imperative of Reason: How Anti-Intellectualism, Denialism, and Apathy Threaten National Security
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis explores the roots and manifestations of anti-intellectualism, denialism and apathy. Philosophical in its design, this research explores the following question: What are the potential effects of cultural anti-intellectualism on the construction and execution of national security and homeland security policy? Specifically, it focuses on how anti-intellectualism can affect how a course of action is created, presented, messaged, supported, and executed. The thesis amasses a review of previous research on the nature and manifestations of this issue and offers an account of the prospective implications for the securities field. Utilizing a case study model, this research explores three examples to highlight the manifestation of this current problem. The findings indicate that anti-intellectualism impacts the highest levels of the political, media, and security processes and, as such, requires practitioners to acknowledge and address its influence. This thesis concludes by arguing that widespread ignorance of objective reality poses a threat to the democratic process. It provides three overarching strategies designed to limit the impact of anti-intellectualism in the policy process and demonstrates that, in the intricate and dynamic matters of our nation's security, there is an ethical imperative for 'reason' and factual discussion to rule the policy process."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Favre, Greggory J.
2016-03
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Follow the Silk Road: How Internet Affordances Influence and Transform Crime and Law Enforcement
From the thesis abstract: "A new category of crime has emerged in the border environment that is disrupting criminal typology. This new 'hybrid' category intermixes physical and digital elements in ways not possible in the past. Internet technologies are facilitating this criminal evolution by affording perpetrators anonymity, efficiency, and distance. New criminal uses of the Internet have resulted in investigative challenges for law enforcement, especially concerning the illegal movement of people and goods. This thesis mapped the evolution of hybrid crime using cases from the Silk Road and Silk Road 2.0, viewed through the lenses of stigmergy and affordance theory. While the research identifies challenges for law enforcement, it also uncovers methods for countering hybrid crime. I found that while criminals are opportunistic in perceiving new affordances to commit crime, law enforcement can be equally capable of countering them by removing technological barriers. Law enforcement can break down these barriers by changing mindsets, implementing smart enforcement, and relying on expertise from public-private partnerships."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Jerde, Ryan D.
2017-12
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Active Shooter Response: Defensive Tactics and Tactical Decision-Making for Elementary School Teachers and Staff
From the thesis abstract: "This study analyzes characteristics of Run, Hide, Fight and defensive tactics and tactical-based decision-making tools that can be modified and applied to enhance depth and breadth of preparedness. Specifically, the research focuses on law enforcement and military tactics and tactical decision-making tools that could be taught to teachers and school staff for use in elementary school settings. Research sources include government operation manuals as well as literature from experts in the fields of defensive tactics and tactical decision-making. While much of the tactical advice and techniques described may seem intimidating to the non-military or non-law-enforcement professional, they are not. The tactics provide basic guidance in mindset, movement, and self-protection strategies that have the potential of improving the likelihood of survival of students, faculty, and staff alike. Findings from the research are categorized as pre-action (mental preparation and situational awareness), action (defensive tactics and tactical decision-making techniques), and re-action (ongoing situational awareness, action analysis and modification). Additionally, the findings support the following recommendations: provide training to teachers and school staff on options-based responses (including defensive tactics and tactical decision-making), empower teachers to protect students by any means necessary, and establish reconnection procedures in the event of an incident."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Whitney, John A., IV
2017-12
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Regaining the Trust of the American Public: A Law Enforcement Initiative
From the thesis abstract: "While Americans remain confident in law enforcement, there are profound fractures in the relationship between the police and certain communities across the United States. Law enforcement shootings of unarmed individuals--particularly African Americans--inadequate police response, and the subsequent civil unrest raise disturbing and often volatile concerns for public safety. This thesis asserts that, as an industry, law enforcement is experiencing a nationwide crisis. Although law enforcement has been unable to successfully navigate the dynamics of reputation management during a crisis, companies in the private sector have identified effective frameworks, paradigms, and best practices for successfully regaining--and, more importantly, maintaining--the public's trust. Consequently, this paper seeks to determine how law enforcement can apply crisis and reputation management techniques developed by the private sector to effectively regain the trust of the American public. The thesis provides law enforcement executives with an opportunity to learn from the private sector and put the most critical lessons learned in crisis and reputation management into practice."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Alvarez, Micole C.
2017-12
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Big Brother or Trusted Allies? How the Police Can Earn Community Support for Using Unmanned Aircraft
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines how local law enforcement agencies can adopt unmanned aircraft, or drones, as tools to help them perform their public safety missions while earning the support and trust of the communities they serve for the use of this controversial technology. The paper presents the current state of the law surrounding drone use by the police, along with published recommendations on drone implementation and trust-building practices. Through the use of a structured multicase study and comparative analysis, the author tests the validity of the drone-specific recommendations of groups like the International Association of Chiefs of Police, American Civil Liberties Union, and Community Oriented Policing Office of the United States Department of Justice. The case studies also examine the influence of factors like demographics, political affiliation, crime rate, and pre-existing community law enforcement relationships on the success or failure of an agency's drone adoption efforts. Based on the analysis of the case studies, the thesis provides a recommended process to follow for law enforcement leaders looking to implement their own drone programs using evidence-based practices to earn the trust of their citizens."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Schwartz, Stephen Craig
2017-12
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How the Democratization of Technology Enhances Intelligence-Led Policing and Serves the Community
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines how the democratization of technology can enhance intelligence-led policing and serve the community. The research compares the models of community policing and intelligence-led policing and considers how the leveraging of social media platforms and personal surveillance cameras can improve police intelligence collection and enhance relationships with the community. While research supports intelligence-led policing to be effective in crime reduction, intelligence-led policing may also produce unexpected benefits when coupled with mainstream technologies serving as a bridge to the people living in those communities. These technologies can create collaborative opportunities and roles of empowerment for citizens' personal safety, thus potentially increasing police legitimacy and fostering more democratic and participatory communities. By incorporating the best of community policing, such as its goals of relationship-building and improving police legitimacy, with the crime reduction capabilities of intelligence-led policing, we might call this community-enhanced intelligence-led policing. With this combination of values and positive outcomes, law enforcement may achieve the desired benefits of each model."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Canaday, Johanna
2017-12
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Police Reforms: Identifying the Potential Adverse Impacts and Challenges to Law Enforcement Agencies
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines the issue of police reform and considers whether a causal connection exists between the reforms being implemented by law enforcement agencies and the issue of police disengagement or de-policing. The two most salient reforms, the 'Final Report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing' and the 'Police Executive Research Forum's Guiding Principles on the Use of Force', are currently in the process of being adopted and implemented in many law enforcement agencies, which is a process that will take many months if not years to complete. To provide some insight into how these reforms will affect these agencies, three case studies examined police departments currently under federal supervision from either the Department of Justice or the federal court to determine how they impacted officer activity. These studies considered the reform process along with the individual reforms adopted in each agency and examined the levels of officer activity to determine how they were impacted by these reforms. These results were then examined in the context of current research and officer surveys to assist in interpreting the reported declines in officer activity. These findings have possible implications for law enforcement agencies that adopt the reforms in the 'Final Report and Guiding Principles.'"
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Timpf, Mark L.
2017-12
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Systematic Approach to Law Enforcement Safety
From the thesis abstract: "The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA) requires that employers provide a safe work environment for their employees. Many states have their own plans that follow federal guidelines and that are inclusive of law enforcement officers. Despite this, there are no federal--and few state--regulations that specifically apply to law enforcement. Although they are commonly found in other high-risk professions, expected practices for OSHA-consistent hazard analysis and mitigation do not exist in law enforcement. This thesis highlights the information that is necessary for policy administrators in this field to establish a systematic approach to safety. After reviewing how police departments can improve officer safety by applying OSHA standards, the thesis examines the fire service and the aviation and medical professions. Specifically, the thesis reviews how these professions have applied Dr. James Reason's principles to create advanced safety systems in high-risk environments. Using OSHA guidelines and standards from other high-risk professions, the thesis constructs a roadmap that, if followed, produces a systematic approach that can create a culture of safety in law enforcement."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Finch, Joseph W.
2018-09
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Civilians on Police Use-Of-Force Review Boards: A Delphi Study Involving Six Police Departments
From the thesis abstract: "Some U.S. law enforcement agencies incorporate voting community members on their use-of-force review boards to support transparency, legitimacy, and community relations. This thesis set out to determine whether police departments that incorporate community members on their review boards follow similar standards in structure and operations. Six cities were included in this study: Denver, Las Vegas, Olympia, Phoenix, Portland, and Tucson. A comparative case study method was used to evaluate their use-of-force review board practices. A two-round Delphi, which asked nine board members from the six cities to identify ideal structures and operations for these boards, found a wide variety of practices. All Delphi participants expressed support for the practice of including voting community members. The literature review and Delphi results identify several recommendations for improving these boards. Recommendations include increasing training, term limits, the authority to review, and opportunities to question for voting community members as well as improving public reporting."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Breckenridge, John H.
2018-09
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Comparative Analysis of International Encryption Policies en Route to a Domestic Solution
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines the encryption policies of Israel and China in an effort to determine whether their respective approaches effectively and reasonably address the issue of law enforcement access to encrypted devices in the United States. The proliferation of encrypted devices poses a growing challenge to law enforcement agencies in their efforts to gather evidence. Meanwhile, an ongoing debate, decades in the making, persists between those arguing for and against easing the means by which the government accesses these encrypted devices. Using qualitative analysis, the thesis assesses the encryption policies of Israel and China in terms of legality, cost, political acceptance, and potential for success in their application within the United States. Based on this analysis, this thesis recommends policymakers give consideration to a solution that resembles Israel's approach. The characteristics of this model include creating, under existing laws, a centralized forensic laboratory supported by a network of examiners located across the country working to gain access to encrypted devices through vulnerabilities. These efforts would be bolstered by relationships with the private sector and academia. Tailoring the U.S. device encryption approach to be more consistent in structure with that of Israel has the potential to bring the United States closer to a viable domestic solution."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Donahue, James L.
2018-03
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Black Flags of Their Fathers: The Islamic State's Returning Foreign Fighter Youths and the Implications for U.S. Domestic Security
From the thesis abstract: "The Islamic State's strategic resources are dissolving as fast as they once appeared. The fear is that, as the Islamic State deteriorates, it will expand its operations outside the region through the use of returning foreign fighters. Evidence suggests that Islamic State children are subject to indoctrination and training that give them the tools to plan, organize, and execute terrorist attacks. These children also have the motive, means, and opportunity to attack the West while in the West. This thesis contains both quantitative and qualitative analyses that help assess the dangers that Islamic State returning foreign fighter youths pose to the domestic security of the United States. Three significant findings emerged out of this work. First, avenues exist for youth fighters indoctrinated and socialized by the Islamic State to plan, conduct, and execute terrorist operations in the United States. Second, youth fighters of the Islamic State share similarities with the child soldiers of other armed groups that influence whether they will have the propensity to engage in future terrorist attacks. Lastly, U.S. policies are geared toward addressing the humanitarian crisis that emerges out of the use of child soldiers, yet we treat the child soldiers of terrorist organizations like criminals. These findings have long-lasting implications for U.S. domestic security."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Tani, John J., Jr.
2017-12
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Applying Technology Acceptance Research to Information Systems Implementation in the Fire Service
From the Thesis Abstract: "The role of a firefighter has remained relatively static over the years, but the way a firefighter documents incidents and accesses logs, maps, and a range of forms is changing from paper-based practices to digital media systems. Unsuccessful technology acceptance can negatively affect efficiency and work production. A better understanding of the variables that are most relevant to influencing firefighters' acceptance of technology will help improve the success of the implementation of new ideas. The purpose of this thesis is to develop a model specific to the fire service and to gain a better understanding of the variables that influence technology acceptance in that field. How can technology acceptance research be applied to the fire service to better understand and influence the acceptance of information technology? A review of the literature reveals three relevant variables of technology acceptance in the fire service: self-efficacy, facilitating conditions, and social influence. These variables were tested using two thought experiments including one retrospective scenario and one prospective scenario. The thought experiments further refine the model by revealing that facilitating conditions had a positive relationship with self-efficacy. With a better understanding and leveraging of the variables that affect technology acceptance, fire administrators can improve the likelihood of acceptance."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Steward, John M.
2019-03
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Assessment of the Data on Body-Worn Cameras
From the Thesis Abstract: "Throughout history, citizens' opinions of law enforcement have fluctuated between confidence and mistrust. This ebb and flow can coincide with many factors, such as historical events like 9/11, personal interaction with an officer, and media/social media reporting of the public's encounters with police. A citizen's confidence and trust in law enforcement may also differ based on the person's gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Law enforcement has invested millions of dollars in research, new initiatives, equipment, and technology, such as body-worn cameras (BWCs), to regain the public's confidence and trust. Those who support BWCs suggest that their use corresponds with declining use of force and citizen complaints, which shows increased public trust in law enforcement. This paper seeks to determine, however, if these factors--use of force and citizen complaints--are the proper metrics for measuring law enforcement transparency, accountability, and citizen trust. This thesis provides a comparative analysis of the quantity and quality of BWC information that police departments make easily accessible to the public and provides a recommendation for law enforcement to develop and implement a BWC incident-based reporting system."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Allen, Carole L.
2019-03
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Everyone Is Doing It: The Effectiveness of Body-Worn Cameras Beyond Randomized Controlled Trials
From the thesis abstract: "U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is at a decisional crossroads regarding body-worn camera implementation. Although the technology has gained widespread acceptance in the law enforcement community, there is a tremendous amount of conflicting information surrounding its efficacy. Neither the academic, nor civil liberty, nor law enforcement communities have examined the effectiveness of body-worn cameras in isolation or attempted to determine whether other police reforms accomplish the same goals. This thesis addresses whether CBP should adopt body-worn cameras. The author employed a comparative case study methodology to examine the impact of the technology within the context of other reform initiatives in two major police departments in which randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of body-worn cameras produced differing results. One RCT showed that the technology reduced the use of force and complaints while the other did not. By examining the effectiveness of other police reform initiatives in these departments before and after body-worn camera implementation, this research concludes that the technology has not been more effective at reducing the use of force or complaints than other reform measures. This thesis expands the body-worn camera discussion beyond the results of RCTs and places it in the broader context of police reform."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Lawler, Robert M.
2018-12
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Responding to High-Rise Active Shooters
From the thesis abstract: "On October 1, 2017, a mass shooting took place in Las Vegas in which the active shooter--perched on the thirty-second floor of a high-rise building--killed fifty-eight people at an outdoor concert below. Law enforcement last modified its active-shooter response practices after the mass shooting at Columbine High School in 1999. Since then, agencies across the United States have based their active-shooter responses on the assumption that the shooter is on the move and in the same two-dimensional environment as the responding officers; the response practices, training, and resource requirements do not address a three-dimensional threat in a semi-fixed position. This thesis analyzed case studies from the University of Texas tower shooting, the Mumbai terrorist attack, and the Las Vegas mass shooting to illuminate patterns, nuances, practices, techniques, tactics, and procedures related to high-rise active shooters. The conclusions identified training procedures, equipment considerations, and response practices that may help first responders mitigate damage from similar attacks in the future." The CHDS Viewpoints in Homeland Defense and Security video link for this thesis is available at: https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=821244
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Seebock, James J.
2018-12
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Fusing the Four Corners: Integrating Intelligence-Led Policing Within New Mexico's Rural and Tribal Communities
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis examines how New Mexico's state fusion center can develop a robust intelligence-led policing and all-hazards model for New Mexico and its rural and tribal communities. The research examines the principles behind intelligence-led policing and identifies best practices established by other local and state law enforcement organizations, focusing on how these practices are followed by fusion centers. Then, it conducts a close analysis of the New Mexico fusion center to determine, in light of best practices, how policies and procedures might be changed to better address rural and tribal concerns. A redefined intelligence and all-hazards mission, as described in this thesis, will provide all participating agencies with a universal definition of intelligence-led policing, will maintain and enhance community-policing efforts, and will establish a platform for contribution to the domestic intelligence cycle--fusing New Mexico's four-corner region, which is essential for leveraging resources to detect and disrupt organized criminal organizations and terrorism."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Vasquez, Robert
2018-12
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Measuring Performance Within Anti-Gang Task Forces in Texas
From the thesis abstract: "The purpose of this research is to examine how the six Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) task forces measure performance and other goal-setting mechanisms to counter the threat posed by gangs and determine ways measures and mechanisms can be improved. Using research from journals, U.S. government reports, and open sources, this thesis uses a policy analysis to examine TAG documents, policies, and processes and compare these with benefits and challenges from other gang task forces. The thesis identifies models and frameworks used by law enforcement and the business sector to measure performance in the TAGs. Thesis findings include a proposal to use a logic model and the objectives and key results framework for setting goals and measuring performance. The implementation of this recommendation should yield a TAG structure with quantifiable and reliable metrics of success that optimize the capabilities and resources of all participants."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Jamison, Laura E.
2018-12
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Not Just Another Piece of Equipment: An Analysis for Police Body-Worn Camera Policy Decisions
From the thesis abstract: "In the United States, law enforcement agencies are rapidly deploying body-worn cameras (BWCs) to increase organizational transparency and foster positive community relations. Proponents of the technology see BWCs as a tool to ensure police legitimacy and eliminate abusive conduct. Preliminary evidence identifies several benefits of using BWCs, such as: reduced citizen complaints, increased cooperation, and lower civil liability. However, emerging evidence suggests that the devices may be achieving the intended goals but with unintended consequences. BWC use may inadvertently increase use of force incidents and reduce the time that the police spend on de-escalating a situation. This thesis employs qualitative research methodology to examine how BWCs affect the ambiguous nature of police decision-making, as well as the effects of BWC use on the public, thereby investigating solutions for the frayed police-public relationship. By analyzing current data available on BWCs, examining information on human decision-making including heuristics, and completing a comparative analysis of a similar police technology--the vehicle dashboard camera--the thesis finds that BWC use can have different and changing impacts on police behavior, suggesting that variables related to human factors alter the dynamics of BWC use. The thesis provides recommendations that cover independent agency BWC evaluations, organizational training, limits on discretionary officer recording, and the practical application of automated camera systems."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Sacca, Giacomo
2017-12
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Born of the Troubles: Lessons in Trust and Legitimacy from the Police Service of Northern Ireland
From the thesis abstract: "Trust and the establishment of legitimacy are essential to building strong relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Distrust of the police can lead to a lack of community involvement and, in some cases, a perception of the police as an occupying force. American policing has faced recent challenges regarding trust, legitimacy, and accountability resulting in calls for police reform. This thesis answers the question of whether the police reforms outlined in the Report of the Independent Commission on Policing for Northern Ireland, or the Patten Report―for the purposes of establishing trust and legitimacy and implemented in Northern Ireland―are applicable as a possible model for American policing. This thesis provides a qualitative analysis of the Patten Report and its reforms as well as the Police Service of Northern Ireland's implementation of recommendations. An appreciative inquiry approach was used to examine application to American policing and comparison to The Final Report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing. The conclusion is that the Patten Report provides a model for policy makers in the United States. Application of lessons learned from Northern Ireland and the Patten Report will enhance American policing's ability to build trust, legitimacy, and strengthen this nation's homeland security."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.); Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security
Murray, John Charles
2017-12
