The NIJ Forensic Microscopy Training Program provides a week of basic and advanced forensic microscopy education and training to prepare forensic scientists for the identification and characterization of physical evidence. Participants will learn polarized light microscopy and related techniques through intensive hands-on courses and instruction.
Courses begin in January 2008. They are open to forensic science practitioners in microscopy or trace evidence who work in state or local crime laboratories.
Eight seats are available for each of the five-day courses, which will be held at the McCrone Research Institute (McRI) in Chicago.
Visit the NIJ Forensic Microscopy Training Program Web site for details on the courses, including schedules and enrollment information.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
American Heroes Press
December 30, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) American Heroes Press was been established to assist law enforcement, fire, emergency service and military personnel in marketing and promoting their work.
In 2006, www.police-writers.com a website that lists state and local police officers who have authored books was developed. During 2007, www.military-writers.com a website that lists current, former and retired military personnel who have authored books was developed. In late 2007, www.firefighter-writers.com a website that lists fire and emergency services personnel who have authored books was launched.
Hi Tech Criminal Justice, the organization that developed and maintains all three websites announced the formation of American Heroes Press, an umbrella imprint for law enforcement, fire, emergency services and military personnel who have or anticipate publishing books.
American Heroes Press will assist new authors in navigating the world of publishing and assist new authors in marketing and promoting their work. Moreover, through the their information distribution network and “on ground” events, American Heroes Press will assist established authors in marketing and promoting their work.
Currently, www.police-writers.com, the more established of the three websites lists over 800 state and local law enforcement officials who have published. www.military-writers.com lists nearly 100 servicemembers and www.firefighter-writers.com, the newest addition, contains a single listing.
For more information about American Heroes Press visit the website at www.americanheroespress.com or send an email to editor@police-writers.com.
In 2006, www.police-writers.com a website that lists state and local police officers who have authored books was developed. During 2007, www.military-writers.com a website that lists current, former and retired military personnel who have authored books was developed. In late 2007, www.firefighter-writers.com a website that lists fire and emergency services personnel who have authored books was launched.
Hi Tech Criminal Justice, the organization that developed and maintains all three websites announced the formation of American Heroes Press, an umbrella imprint for law enforcement, fire, emergency services and military personnel who have or anticipate publishing books.
American Heroes Press will assist new authors in navigating the world of publishing and assist new authors in marketing and promoting their work. Moreover, through the their information distribution network and “on ground” events, American Heroes Press will assist established authors in marketing and promoting their work.
Currently, www.police-writers.com, the more established of the three websites lists over 800 state and local law enforcement officials who have published. www.military-writers.com lists nearly 100 servicemembers and www.firefighter-writers.com, the newest addition, contains a single listing.
For more information about American Heroes Press visit the website at www.americanheroespress.com or send an email to editor@police-writers.com.
Conversations with Cops
December 30, 2007, 2007 (San Dimas, CA) The January 2, 2008 program of Conversations with Cops at the Watering Hole features a nationally recognized expert on stress in law enforcement.
Program Date: January 2, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Policing and Stress
Guest: Dr. James L. Greenstone
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
About the Guest
With 40 years of practice, and almost 25 years as a police officer, James L. Greenstone, Ed.D. has expertise as a police psychologist, a therapist, a teacher, an author, a police officer, a mediator and negotiator, and as a consultant. The field of Crisis Intervention has been his focus. For the better part of his career as a police officer, he has worked extensively in the field of hostage and crisis negotiations. As a mental health professional and consultant, and as a trainer of negotiators, as well as a member of hostage negotiations teams, he is knowledgeable about negotiator training, current practices in this area, dealing with suicidal and barricaded subjects, negotiations techniques, team development, and team and negotiator interactions with police tactical units. He has participated in numerous hostage, barricaded and suicidal situations, and has practical experience in all aspects of hostage and crisis negotiations team functioning.
Additionally, Dr. James L. Greenstone is currently a Colonel with the Medical Service Corps, Texas State Guard, Texas Military Forces. His current assignment is as Chief of Staff of the Medical Brigade. He is a member of the Editorial Board of Military Medicine, the Journal of the Association for Military Surgeons of the United States. Professionally, he is a Behavioral Health Officer. Colonel James Greenstone’s major focus has been in developing, and in providing, care for service members and their families affected by deployments and redeployments to current war zones. He has worked in this capacity since the Vietnam era and is involved with the Department of Defense in providing some of these services, and was recently tasked by the Texas Adjutant General and the Joint State Surgeon to make recommendations concerning psychological care for returning National Guard Soldiers.
Joining the conversation at the half-hour mark is Jennie Valencia a Victim Services Advocate, Pinal County Sheriff's Office (Arizona).
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond is currently a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Program Date: January 2, 2008
Program Time: 2100 hours, Pacific
Topic: Policing and Stress
Guest: Dr. James L. Greenstone
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
About the Guest
With 40 years of practice, and almost 25 years as a police officer, James L. Greenstone, Ed.D. has expertise as a police psychologist, a therapist, a teacher, an author, a police officer, a mediator and negotiator, and as a consultant. The field of Crisis Intervention has been his focus. For the better part of his career as a police officer, he has worked extensively in the field of hostage and crisis negotiations. As a mental health professional and consultant, and as a trainer of negotiators, as well as a member of hostage negotiations teams, he is knowledgeable about negotiator training, current practices in this area, dealing with suicidal and barricaded subjects, negotiations techniques, team development, and team and negotiator interactions with police tactical units. He has participated in numerous hostage, barricaded and suicidal situations, and has practical experience in all aspects of hostage and crisis negotiations team functioning.
Additionally, Dr. James L. Greenstone is currently a Colonel with the Medical Service Corps, Texas State Guard, Texas Military Forces. His current assignment is as Chief of Staff of the Medical Brigade. He is a member of the Editorial Board of Military Medicine, the Journal of the Association for Military Surgeons of the United States. Professionally, he is a Behavioral Health Officer. Colonel James Greenstone’s major focus has been in developing, and in providing, care for service members and their families affected by deployments and redeployments to current war zones. He has worked in this capacity since the Vietnam era and is involved with the Department of Defense in providing some of these services, and was recently tasked by the Texas Adjutant General and the Joint State Surgeon to make recommendations concerning psychological care for returning National Guard Soldiers.
Joining the conversation at the half-hour mark is Jennie Valencia a Victim Services Advocate, Pinal County Sheriff's Office (Arizona).
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond is currently a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Public Safety Technology in the News
Tracking Drunk Drivers
CBS-21 WHP (Harrisburg, PA), (12/7/2007), Myranda Stephens
Pennsylvania State Police report that they often see an increase in DUI incidents during the holiday season. Thanks to a software application called Prophecy Program, the police can track these DUI incidents by location and the software will provide a map predicting the times and locations of future incidents. State Police use this output to identify trouble spots quickly and deploy officers to these areas. The software can also be used to track other crimes.
www.whptv.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=5fe52ccc-85e5-4916-a713-19ebba6c1037
Iris Scans Let Law Enforcement Keep Eye on Criminals
USA Today (12/4/2007), Wendy Koch
Sheriff's offices across the country are using iris recognition technology to identify missing persons and sex offenders. Most agencies are using the technology to collect iris scans of senior citizens and children. These scans are stored in databases that can be searched as needed. Some agencies are capturing the iris scans of convicted sex offenders and inmates in order to identify offenders in the event of future crimes and to ensure the correct inmate is released. Iris recognition technology compares a greater level of detail than fingerprint recognition technology and departments are finding that they can find matches much faster using a centralized database of iris scans.
www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-12-04-iris_N.htm
Bowie Police Go High Tech
gazette.net (11/22/07), Megan King
In the past month, the Bowie (Maryland) Police Department has been able to scan more than 20,000 license plates using a new license plate recognition technology system. Since its installation on October 30, the system has alerted officers more than 300 times to violations such as stolen vehicle and suspended tags. The plates that the system scans are cross-checked against a database of statewide motor vehicle violations, as well as national criminal data. If a violation is found, the system notifies the patrol officer. The license plate scanning system allows officers to scan 5,000 plates during a 10-hour shift. The department purchased the system using donations from various businesses within Bowie, which amount to about 40 percent of the total cost of the system.
www.gazette.net/stories/112207/largnew172423_32363.shtml
U.S. Eyes 'Pain Beam' for Home Security, Law Enforcement
Wired.com (12/10/2007), David Hambling
The Active Denial System (ADS) is a less-lethal technology that uses microwaves to cause a burning sensation on the outer surface of the skin without injuring the target. ADS has not been deployed by the U.S. military yet, but the system's manufacturer is looking into implementing the technology for law enforcement use. The current system is too large and too expensive to be practical for most police departments, so the National Institute of Justice is working with Raytheon to develop a handheld version with a hundred-foot range. Raytheon is also working with Sandia National Laboratories to develop a version of ADS for securing nuclear stockpiles.
www.wired.com/politics/security/news/2007/12/pain_beam
DOJ Tests Suspicious-Activity Reporting System
FCW.com (12/10/2007), Jason Miller
Through its Law Enforcement Online (LEO) system, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is testing a new system designed to improve the sharing of suspicious-activity reporting among Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies. The new system, called E-Guardian, is based on the National Information Exchange Model (NIEM) standard. The U.S. Department of Justice is funding State fusion centers, which are required to use NIEM for sharing information. The current plan is to include E-Guardian as one of the systems to be used by these fusion centers.
www.fcw.com/online/news/151032-1.html
New Database Links Guns, Criminal Histories
LA Daily News (12/10/2007), Jason Kandel
The California Department of Justice and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) are using the new Armed Prohibited Persons System program to identify gun owners with criminal histories. The statewide database currently contains approximately 9,000 records on people who are prohibited from owning firearms along with records on gun owners. Law enforcement agencies can access the system to easily identify individuals who own guns illegally. An LAPD task force has used the system this fall to identify and search 71 locations. These searches led to the seizure of 28 guns and the arrest of 8 individuals.
www.dailynews.com/news/ci_7679381
Police Say GPS Helps Crack Case in Drive-By Slaying
Los Angeles Times (12/12/2007), Andrew Blankstein and Richard Winton
The Los Angeles Police Department received an important lead in a murder case by accessing data from a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system that was tracking the location of 20 gang members. As part of a new State program, 20 gang members were fitted with GPS monitoring bracelets as part of their parole agreements. The GPS system records the date, time, and location of each parolee. As soon as the drive-by shooting occurred, Sgt. Ruby Malachi directed officers at the LAPD's crime analysis center to search the system for the date, time, and location of the shooting. The system's data reported that one of the gang members being tracked was in the vicinity when the shooting occurred. Based on this information and evidence from witnesses, the police eventually arrested seven suspects, including the gang member being tracked. LAPD has traditionally used the GPS system to track sex offenders, but is now seeking to expand the gang member tracking program.
www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-gps12dec12,1,5363458.story?coll=la-headlines-california&ctrack=1&cset=true
Electronic Tickets Cite Drivers With Cyber Speed
Noblesville Daily Times (12/3/2007), Rebecca L. Sandlin
The Indian State Police have put into operation the Electronic Citation and Warning System (E-CWS) as a tool for issuing warnings and citations to motorists. It is anticipated that the system will be safer for troopers in terms of time spent outside the cruiser, and reduce time and paperwork involved with issuing citations. Using their laptops, officers will scan motorist information from the barcodes located on motor vehicle registration cards and driver's licenses and generate a ticket for the motorist, the officer, and the courts.
www.county29.net/cms2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8402&Itemid=230
New Court Video System Saves Navajo County Time and Money
AZJournal.com (11/28/2007), Tammy Gray-Searles
Navajo County, in Arizona, recently implemented a video conferencing system with money from a Fill the Gap grant from the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission. The system will be used by the justice courts, the jail, and in two superior court courtrooms. It is hoped the system will save money in transportation costs, and provide increased security by reducing inmate movement. Because of the systems real-time capabilities, judges and court staff will be able to attend conferences, meetings, and trainings remotely, which will allow court cases to proceed with limited disruptions and ensure defendants a speedy process. In the future, the video conferencing system can allow attorneys to perform remote client visits, or allow inmates to visit with families over long distances.
www.azjournal.com/news/126/ARTICLE/1541/2007-11-28.html
Millions Coming to NH for Emergency Radio
UnionLeader.com (12/2/2007), Shawne K. Wickham
The state of New Hampshire will receive just under $6 million in public safety funding, which is part of nearly a billion dollars that have been set aside by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) — a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce. This money is part of the anticipated $10 to $15 billion the Federal Government expects to receive when it auctions off spectrum space that is presently used by analog TV broadcasts. The vacated spectrum space will then be used to create a national public safety communications network, and the money offered by the NTIA will be used to assist public safety agencies obtain equipment to use the new network.
www.unionleader.com/article.aspx?headline=Millions+coming+to+NH+for+emergency+radio&articleId=74a09b06-ccea-440b-9e9b-19a17777ba2b
The JUSTNETNews Mailing List is maintained by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center, supported by Cooperative Agreement 2005-MU-CX-K077 awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Regular postings to JUSTNETNews include abstracted news articles on law enforcement and corrections technology topics, upcoming NLECTC and NIJ events, NLECTC services and activities, new publications, and other technology-related announcements. Please note that providing information on law enforcement and corrections technology or the mention of specific manufacturers or products does not constitute the endorsement of the U.S. Department of Justice or its component parts.
The National Institute of Justice is a component of the Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Assitance; the Bureau of Justice Statistics; the Community Capacity Development Office; The Office for Victims of Crime; the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention; and the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking (SMART).
CBS-21 WHP (Harrisburg, PA), (12/7/2007), Myranda Stephens
Pennsylvania State Police report that they often see an increase in DUI incidents during the holiday season. Thanks to a software application called Prophecy Program, the police can track these DUI incidents by location and the software will provide a map predicting the times and locations of future incidents. State Police use this output to identify trouble spots quickly and deploy officers to these areas. The software can also be used to track other crimes.
www.whptv.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=5fe52ccc-85e5-4916-a713-19ebba6c1037
Iris Scans Let Law Enforcement Keep Eye on Criminals
USA Today (12/4/2007), Wendy Koch
Sheriff's offices across the country are using iris recognition technology to identify missing persons and sex offenders. Most agencies are using the technology to collect iris scans of senior citizens and children. These scans are stored in databases that can be searched as needed. Some agencies are capturing the iris scans of convicted sex offenders and inmates in order to identify offenders in the event of future crimes and to ensure the correct inmate is released. Iris recognition technology compares a greater level of detail than fingerprint recognition technology and departments are finding that they can find matches much faster using a centralized database of iris scans.
www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-12-04-iris_N.htm
Bowie Police Go High Tech
gazette.net (11/22/07), Megan King
In the past month, the Bowie (Maryland) Police Department has been able to scan more than 20,000 license plates using a new license plate recognition technology system. Since its installation on October 30, the system has alerted officers more than 300 times to violations such as stolen vehicle and suspended tags. The plates that the system scans are cross-checked against a database of statewide motor vehicle violations, as well as national criminal data. If a violation is found, the system notifies the patrol officer. The license plate scanning system allows officers to scan 5,000 plates during a 10-hour shift. The department purchased the system using donations from various businesses within Bowie, which amount to about 40 percent of the total cost of the system.
www.gazette.net/stories/112207/largnew172423_32363.shtml
U.S. Eyes 'Pain Beam' for Home Security, Law Enforcement
Wired.com (12/10/2007), David Hambling
The Active Denial System (ADS) is a less-lethal technology that uses microwaves to cause a burning sensation on the outer surface of the skin without injuring the target. ADS has not been deployed by the U.S. military yet, but the system's manufacturer is looking into implementing the technology for law enforcement use. The current system is too large and too expensive to be practical for most police departments, so the National Institute of Justice is working with Raytheon to develop a handheld version with a hundred-foot range. Raytheon is also working with Sandia National Laboratories to develop a version of ADS for securing nuclear stockpiles.
www.wired.com/politics/security/news/2007/12/pain_beam
DOJ Tests Suspicious-Activity Reporting System
FCW.com (12/10/2007), Jason Miller
Through its Law Enforcement Online (LEO) system, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is testing a new system designed to improve the sharing of suspicious-activity reporting among Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies. The new system, called E-Guardian, is based on the National Information Exchange Model (NIEM) standard. The U.S. Department of Justice is funding State fusion centers, which are required to use NIEM for sharing information. The current plan is to include E-Guardian as one of the systems to be used by these fusion centers.
www.fcw.com/online/news/151032-1.html
New Database Links Guns, Criminal Histories
LA Daily News (12/10/2007), Jason Kandel
The California Department of Justice and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) are using the new Armed Prohibited Persons System program to identify gun owners with criminal histories. The statewide database currently contains approximately 9,000 records on people who are prohibited from owning firearms along with records on gun owners. Law enforcement agencies can access the system to easily identify individuals who own guns illegally. An LAPD task force has used the system this fall to identify and search 71 locations. These searches led to the seizure of 28 guns and the arrest of 8 individuals.
www.dailynews.com/news/ci_7679381
Police Say GPS Helps Crack Case in Drive-By Slaying
Los Angeles Times (12/12/2007), Andrew Blankstein and Richard Winton
The Los Angeles Police Department received an important lead in a murder case by accessing data from a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system that was tracking the location of 20 gang members. As part of a new State program, 20 gang members were fitted with GPS monitoring bracelets as part of their parole agreements. The GPS system records the date, time, and location of each parolee. As soon as the drive-by shooting occurred, Sgt. Ruby Malachi directed officers at the LAPD's crime analysis center to search the system for the date, time, and location of the shooting. The system's data reported that one of the gang members being tracked was in the vicinity when the shooting occurred. Based on this information and evidence from witnesses, the police eventually arrested seven suspects, including the gang member being tracked. LAPD has traditionally used the GPS system to track sex offenders, but is now seeking to expand the gang member tracking program.
www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-gps12dec12,1,5363458.story?coll=la-headlines-california&ctrack=1&cset=true
Electronic Tickets Cite Drivers With Cyber Speed
Noblesville Daily Times (12/3/2007), Rebecca L. Sandlin
The Indian State Police have put into operation the Electronic Citation and Warning System (E-CWS) as a tool for issuing warnings and citations to motorists. It is anticipated that the system will be safer for troopers in terms of time spent outside the cruiser, and reduce time and paperwork involved with issuing citations. Using their laptops, officers will scan motorist information from the barcodes located on motor vehicle registration cards and driver's licenses and generate a ticket for the motorist, the officer, and the courts.
www.county29.net/cms2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8402&Itemid=230
New Court Video System Saves Navajo County Time and Money
AZJournal.com (11/28/2007), Tammy Gray-Searles
Navajo County, in Arizona, recently implemented a video conferencing system with money from a Fill the Gap grant from the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission. The system will be used by the justice courts, the jail, and in two superior court courtrooms. It is hoped the system will save money in transportation costs, and provide increased security by reducing inmate movement. Because of the systems real-time capabilities, judges and court staff will be able to attend conferences, meetings, and trainings remotely, which will allow court cases to proceed with limited disruptions and ensure defendants a speedy process. In the future, the video conferencing system can allow attorneys to perform remote client visits, or allow inmates to visit with families over long distances.
www.azjournal.com/news/126/ARTICLE/1541/2007-11-28.html
Millions Coming to NH for Emergency Radio
UnionLeader.com (12/2/2007), Shawne K. Wickham
The state of New Hampshire will receive just under $6 million in public safety funding, which is part of nearly a billion dollars that have been set aside by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) — a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce. This money is part of the anticipated $10 to $15 billion the Federal Government expects to receive when it auctions off spectrum space that is presently used by analog TV broadcasts. The vacated spectrum space will then be used to create a national public safety communications network, and the money offered by the NTIA will be used to assist public safety agencies obtain equipment to use the new network.
www.unionleader.com/article.aspx?headline=Millions+coming+to+NH+for+emergency+radio&articleId=74a09b06-ccea-440b-9e9b-19a17777ba2b
The JUSTNETNews Mailing List is maintained by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center, supported by Cooperative Agreement 2005-MU-CX-K077 awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Regular postings to JUSTNETNews include abstracted news articles on law enforcement and corrections technology topics, upcoming NLECTC and NIJ events, NLECTC services and activities, new publications, and other technology-related announcements. Please note that providing information on law enforcement and corrections technology or the mention of specific manufacturers or products does not constitute the endorsement of the U.S. Department of Justice or its component parts.
The National Institute of Justice is a component of the Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Assitance; the Bureau of Justice Statistics; the Community Capacity Development Office; The Office for Victims of Crime; the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention; and the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking (SMART).
Caught With Field Search
In June 2007, a convicted sex offender and former Iowa State Patrol trooper was caught with child pornography on his computer by his probation officer. The probation officer was able to detect these images using Field Search — a software tool created by NLECTC-Rocky Mountain and provided free of charge to active community corrections professionals. Field Search allows nontechnical probation and parole officers to quickly and efficiently search an offender's computer and create a detailed report of their findings. This offender was charged with a probation violation and could face additional charges thanks in part to the Field Search tool. For more information on Field Search, including how to request a copy, please visit www.justnet.org/fieldsearch/.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Conversations with Cops
This week’s topic: Law Enforcement Driving Technology; Crime Scenes
Bruce Mather, Chief Technology Officer Lap Belt Cinch, Inc. will be discussing high speed driving technology during the first 15 minutes of the show. Kathie Jo Kadziauskas, AAA Crime Scene LLC, will be discussing the aftermath of crime scenes - everything from decomps to hoarding.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Bruce Mather, Chief Technology Officer Lap Belt Cinch, Inc. will be discussing high speed driving technology during the first 15 minutes of the show. Kathie Jo Kadziauskas, AAA Crime Scene LLC, will be discussing the aftermath of crime scenes - everything from decomps to hoarding.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Friday, December 21, 2007
America Supports You: Soldier's Legacy Benefits Wounded Troops
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - An Illinois-based group is working to honor one soldier by supporting many other servicemembers. "The Captain Scott Corwin Foundation is dedicated to helping our men and women in uniform, concentrating on those wounded," said Greg Corwin, one of the foundation's executive members, and Scott's father.
The foundation was established to honor Scott Corwin, an active-duty soldier killed, not by foreign terrorists, but while walking home in Savannah, Ga., after a night out with friends.
"We try to tailor our organization after what we think Scott would want, and we do a lot in the field of sports events, as Scott was a huge sports fan," Greg Corwin said.
Corwin said the foundation, which has arranged for wounded servicemembers to attend sporting events, doesn't limit itself to this type of support but finds such events are a great distraction for recovering vets.
"We also grant an annual scholarship in Scott's name at his high school in Dairen, Ill.," he said.
The scholarship is part of a leadership program that will build upon the values of athletes in areas of scholarship and citizenship while encouraging them to give back to the community at large, Corwin said.
The U.S. Military Academy graduate was serving as the construction officer assigned to 92nd Engineer Battalion (Heavy) at Fort Stewart, Ga., on May 29, when he was shot and killed. The case is still unsolved.
The foundation recently became a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
"We believe being (affiliated) with America Supports You puts us among some of the finest military-support groups in the nation," Corwin said.
Corwin and the foundation also worked with U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania to get the Captain Scott Corwin Armed Forces Protection Act, House Resolution 3884, introduced in the House of Representatives. The bill, which was recently introduced, would make it a federal and capital offense to murder any member of the military, Corwin said.
Current law applies such penalties to those who kill a police officer, even if that police officer is unidentifiable as a police officer, according to the foundation's Web site. For military homicide victims, prosecutors currently must prove the defendant knew the victim was a servicemember.
American Forces Press Service
Dec. 21, 2007 - An Illinois-based group is working to honor one soldier by supporting many other servicemembers. "The Captain Scott Corwin Foundation is dedicated to helping our men and women in uniform, concentrating on those wounded," said Greg Corwin, one of the foundation's executive members, and Scott's father.
The foundation was established to honor Scott Corwin, an active-duty soldier killed, not by foreign terrorists, but while walking home in Savannah, Ga., after a night out with friends.
"We try to tailor our organization after what we think Scott would want, and we do a lot in the field of sports events, as Scott was a huge sports fan," Greg Corwin said.
Corwin said the foundation, which has arranged for wounded servicemembers to attend sporting events, doesn't limit itself to this type of support but finds such events are a great distraction for recovering vets.
"We also grant an annual scholarship in Scott's name at his high school in Dairen, Ill.," he said.
The scholarship is part of a leadership program that will build upon the values of athletes in areas of scholarship and citizenship while encouraging them to give back to the community at large, Corwin said.
The U.S. Military Academy graduate was serving as the construction officer assigned to 92nd Engineer Battalion (Heavy) at Fort Stewart, Ga., on May 29, when he was shot and killed. The case is still unsolved.
The foundation recently became a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
"We believe being (affiliated) with America Supports You puts us among some of the finest military-support groups in the nation," Corwin said.
Corwin and the foundation also worked with U.S. Rep. Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania to get the Captain Scott Corwin Armed Forces Protection Act, House Resolution 3884, introduced in the House of Representatives. The bill, which was recently introduced, would make it a federal and capital offense to murder any member of the military, Corwin said.
Current law applies such penalties to those who kill a police officer, even if that police officer is unidentifiable as a police officer, according to the foundation's Web site. For military homicide victims, prosecutors currently must prove the defendant knew the victim was a servicemember.
ILL SEE YOU TOMORROW
Together we wrote a chapter of life, me as your husband, you as my wife
As "one" we shared all of life’s pleasures, our moments together, nothing but treasures
Sitting together, talking for hours, each minute of time, were definitely ours
Then something happened in the midst of our love, you got a call, from God up above
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/see_you_tomorrow.html
As "one" we shared all of life’s pleasures, our moments together, nothing but treasures
Sitting together, talking for hours, each minute of time, were definitely ours
Then something happened in the midst of our love, you got a call, from God up above
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/see_you_tomorrow.html
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Conversations with Cops
Date: 12/19/07
Time: 2100 hours Pacific
Topic: Leadership in Law Enforcement
Guest: Captain Andrew Harvey, (ret.) Ed.D.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
The show is immediately available in the archive and shortly thereafter available as an ITunes Download.
Time: 2100 hours Pacific
Topic: Leadership in Law Enforcement
Guest: Captain Andrew Harvey, (ret.) Ed.D.
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
The show is immediately available in the archive and shortly thereafter available as an ITunes Download.
Crime Scene by Esther McKay
As the editor of Police-Writers.com and a retired police officer turned author I have occasion to read a lot of books written by police officers. Through the website I was contacted by former New South Wales (Australia) Police Officer Esther McKay; and, ultimately received a copy of her book. What I received was a well-written memoir of a crime scene investigator.
What struck at first is that cop work is cop; it doesn’t matter if you are walking my former beat in downtown Los Angeles or riding in McKay’s crime scene investigator’s truck. To mimic Jack Webb, “the stories are true, only the locations have changed.” Riding along in McKay’s journey you will find out that our Aussie brothers and sisters definitely have a language of their own; indeed, just as cops have our own “secret” language, McKay adds “witches hats,” “ambros” and “Salvos” to the lexicon of the international police slang.
The deeper you read into Esther McKay’s work the further you delve into the seriousness of her message. Time wise, Esther and I started our careers at about the same time. While the technology of policing was increasing rapidly, the technology and information about protecting police officers was seriously lagging. As the decade of the 1980s progressed, the demand to recover more evidence for DNA (and other examinations) increased, yet the idea of Universal Precautions for Bloodborne Pathogens had yet to find its way to the street cop.
At about the same time, Esther and I seem to be having the same questions about the wisdom of contact with chemicals, fluids, smoke and debris at crime scenes. It seems we were prepared to battle bullets, knives and fists but not microbes. For me, the “this ain’t right” moment came at the scene of a stabbing. The victim, cut from ear to ear, was only two blocks from a hospital. My partner and I looked at each other and made an unspoken, instantaneous decision – the victim would not survive the wait for paramedics. Somehow, I ended up in the back seat of the cruiser, with the victim’s head and shoulders in my lap as I tried to staunch the flow. I don’t really remember my partner driving to the hospital – we were just at the crime scene one moment and hospital the next. While there was only a little blood on my face, my uniform, arms and hands were drenched.
The power of McKay’s work is that it evoked that, and other memories. The second and related theme of McKay’s work is the world-wide law enforcement training paradigm of “sink or swim.” I am not certain how, but it appears we all learned police work on the fly. When you combine the intensity of the crime scenes Esther McKay investigated with the universal “sink or swim” training you get to the real root of her work: the psychological toll on cops.
As we journey with Esther we experience the unrelenting series of call outs, the contact with other’s grief, the death and injury, and its mounting toll on a good cop. While we as readers see the signs, the players can’t. Foremost, because at the time Esther McKay was playing the cop game the psychological impact was only just being understood and discussed, but rarely acted on. In fact, today, we are still seeing cops (apparently around the globe) pursue relief down blind alleys like alcohol.
Esther McKay’s book is for every cop, sergeant and police manager. It’s for those of you who want to join the ranks; and, those of you who are the loved ones. All the signs, blind alleys and ultimately the right paths are laid out. I think, perhaps, the afterword which is written by a doctor sums it up best: “Crime Scene is also a significant contribution to the literature of police work because it outlines the insidious nature of the traumatic effects of crime-scene work.”
You can obtain additional information about Crime Scene and Esther McKay at:
http://www.police-writers.com/esther_mckay.html
About the Reviewer:
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA is a 24 year veteran of law enforcement. In his retirement he is a university professor and writer. He is the author of Police Technology; Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style; and, is currently working on. From NYPD to LAPD: An Introduction to Policing. You can view Raymond’s complete CV at www.police-technology.net/raymond.foster.cv.html.
What struck at first is that cop work is cop; it doesn’t matter if you are walking my former beat in downtown Los Angeles or riding in McKay’s crime scene investigator’s truck. To mimic Jack Webb, “the stories are true, only the locations have changed.” Riding along in McKay’s journey you will find out that our Aussie brothers and sisters definitely have a language of their own; indeed, just as cops have our own “secret” language, McKay adds “witches hats,” “ambros” and “Salvos” to the lexicon of the international police slang.
The deeper you read into Esther McKay’s work the further you delve into the seriousness of her message. Time wise, Esther and I started our careers at about the same time. While the technology of policing was increasing rapidly, the technology and information about protecting police officers was seriously lagging. As the decade of the 1980s progressed, the demand to recover more evidence for DNA (and other examinations) increased, yet the idea of Universal Precautions for Bloodborne Pathogens had yet to find its way to the street cop.
At about the same time, Esther and I seem to be having the same questions about the wisdom of contact with chemicals, fluids, smoke and debris at crime scenes. It seems we were prepared to battle bullets, knives and fists but not microbes. For me, the “this ain’t right” moment came at the scene of a stabbing. The victim, cut from ear to ear, was only two blocks from a hospital. My partner and I looked at each other and made an unspoken, instantaneous decision – the victim would not survive the wait for paramedics. Somehow, I ended up in the back seat of the cruiser, with the victim’s head and shoulders in my lap as I tried to staunch the flow. I don’t really remember my partner driving to the hospital – we were just at the crime scene one moment and hospital the next. While there was only a little blood on my face, my uniform, arms and hands were drenched.
The power of McKay’s work is that it evoked that, and other memories. The second and related theme of McKay’s work is the world-wide law enforcement training paradigm of “sink or swim.” I am not certain how, but it appears we all learned police work on the fly. When you combine the intensity of the crime scenes Esther McKay investigated with the universal “sink or swim” training you get to the real root of her work: the psychological toll on cops.
As we journey with Esther we experience the unrelenting series of call outs, the contact with other’s grief, the death and injury, and its mounting toll on a good cop. While we as readers see the signs, the players can’t. Foremost, because at the time Esther McKay was playing the cop game the psychological impact was only just being understood and discussed, but rarely acted on. In fact, today, we are still seeing cops (apparently around the globe) pursue relief down blind alleys like alcohol.
Esther McKay’s book is for every cop, sergeant and police manager. It’s for those of you who want to join the ranks; and, those of you who are the loved ones. All the signs, blind alleys and ultimately the right paths are laid out. I think, perhaps, the afterword which is written by a doctor sums it up best: “Crime Scene is also a significant contribution to the literature of police work because it outlines the insidious nature of the traumatic effects of crime-scene work.”
You can obtain additional information about Crime Scene and Esther McKay at:
http://www.police-writers.com/esther_mckay.html
About the Reviewer:
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA is a 24 year veteran of law enforcement. In his retirement he is a university professor and writer. He is the author of Police Technology; Leadership: Texas Hold ‘em Style; and, is currently working on. From NYPD to LAPD: An Introduction to Policing. You can view Raymond’s complete CV at www.police-technology.net/raymond.foster.cv.html.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
REPORT ON NEW JERSEY’S GPS MONITORING OF SEX OFFENDERS
A total of 225 sex offenders have been subject to GPS monitoring in New Jersey since the program began. Significantly, only one of these high-risk sex offenders has been charged with a new sex crime while under GPS supervision. The sex offender was arrested at the crime scene, a rape that occurred in April 2006. Even if the sex offender had left the scene, however, GPS data was available to pinpoint his presence at the time and place of the crime, and was ready to serve as a vital aid to the investigation.
During the pilot program, 19 other sex offenders were charged with non-sexual new crimes or technical violations of the GPS statute or other supervision conditions. Violations of the statute include refusing to maintain the GPS monitoring equipment, failing to carry it, or physically tampering with the equipment.
READ ON
http://www.state.nj.us/parole/gps.pdf
During the pilot program, 19 other sex offenders were charged with non-sexual new crimes or technical violations of the GPS statute or other supervision conditions. Violations of the statute include refusing to maintain the GPS monitoring equipment, failing to carry it, or physically tampering with the equipment.
READ ON
http://www.state.nj.us/parole/gps.pdf
Public Safety Technology in the News
This recap of Public Safety Technology in the News is a service of the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (NLECTC), a program of the Office of Justice Programs, National Institute of Justice.
Denver Deploys New Graffiti Surveillance System
Government Technology (11/15/07), News Report
The city and county of Denver, Colorado, in an effort to reduce the city's graffiti issue, have announced they will take part in a 30-day beta test of a newly released graffiti surveillance system. Law Enforcement Associates will provide eight Graffiti Cam units, along with training on installation and set-up and free 24-hour technical support to the Denver Police Department. Based on graffiti-related motions, the Graffiti Cam system is designed to inform law enforcement of graffiti crimes in progress. The system will provide law enforcement the chance to catch suspects in the act, as well provide video evidence for suspect identification.
www.govtech.com/gt/articles/186222
Future Cops: Police Use Tactical Technologies to Catch Criminals
FOXNews.com (11/27/07), Gene J. Koprowski
A suspect flees from the Los Angeles Police, but rather than getting involved in a dangerous, high-speed pursuit the police only follow for a few blocks. During that time, the police tag the car using a laser-guided GPS tracking system that launches a transmitter which attaches to the fleeing car. Once the car is tagged, police can then slow down and fall back, which encourages the suspect to slow down as well. The transmitter attached to the vehicle allows police to track the suspect in real-time using a wireless network. Once the vehicle stops, police can move in and arrest the suspect as he is exiting the car. This technology is being tested by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Suffolk County Police Department in New York. Now StarChase, LLC, the developer of the system, plans to move to the next phase and commercialize the product and hopes to have it on the market early next year.
www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,312953,00.html
System Lets Agencies in Area Share Data
washingtonpost.com (11/29/07), Mary Beth Sheridan
More than 60 Washington, D.C. area law enforcement agencies now have access to the Law Enforcement Information Exchange (LInX) system. LInX will allow these agencies to easily share crime reports and mug shots. Prior to the system's implementation, agencies had to make calls to other departments or actually visit the department to exchange information relating to suspects. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) launched LInX because of possible threats to naval installations, and hoped that the system would perpetuate communication between the various levels of law enforcement in an effort to protect and serve. Funding to establish the service came from NCIS and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Law enforcement will access LInX at no charge. At present, roughly 2,000 officers in the D.C. area have access, with that number expected to double before the end of the year. These officers can access 6 million mug shots and 14 million crime reports. NCIS has cre! ated similar systems in six other areas of the United States.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/28/AR2007112802401.html
Bowie Police Go High Tech
gazette.net (11/22/07), Megan King
In the past month, the Bowie (Maryland) Police Department has been able to scan more than 20,000 license plates using a new license plate recognition technology system. Since its installation on October 30, the system has alerted officers more than 300 times to violations such as stolen vehicle and suspended tags. The plates that the system scans are cross-checked against a database of statewide motor vehicle violations, as well as national criminal data. If a violation is found, the system notifies the patrol officer. The license plate scanning system allows officers to scan 5,000 plates during a 10-hour shift. The department purchased the system using donations from various businesses within Bowie, which amount to about 40 percent of the total cost of the system.
www.gazette.net/stories/112207/largnew172423_32363.shtml
Contagious Communications
Law Enforcement Technology (11/2007), p. 22, Jonathan Kozlowski
YouTube (www.youtube.com), the popular website that allows any user the ability to upload videos to the Web free of charge, can be a useful tool for law enforcement agencies seeking to improve communication with the general public and to share information with other agencies. The Broward County (Florida) Sheriff's Office is using YouTube to post public service announcements in conjunction with distributing printed materials to the community. The Office's most popular video, "Gone in 4 seconds," has been viewed almost 7 million times. The Franklin (Massachusetts) Police Department posted video of two suspects from store footage to YouTube and soon received a tip from another agency identifying the suspects. The International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC) is also using the YouTube site to post videos of missing children and educational materials.
www.officer.com/magazines/let/
Schools' Computer Flags Sex Offenders
Washington Post (12/4/2007), Ian Shapira
The Prince William County (Virginia) school system has implemented the V-soft security system to track school visitors and screen for sex offenders. The V-soft system, also known as Raptor, scans identification cards such as driver's licenses and compares the information against listings of sex offenders from across the country. The Raptor system is also in use in the Anne Arundel County (Maryland) school system and is credited with identifying three sex offenders and leading to one arrest.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/03/AR2007120302027.html
Video-Conferencing Increases Security, Saves County Time, Money
The Daily Siftings Herald (11/27/2007), Donna Hilton
Clark County, Arkansas, is saving money by using video-conferencing to allow inmates to make their first court appearances without leaving the county jail. The system uses two television sets and two cameras, which allow the inmate and judge to communicate. With the new system in place, security is improved because prisoners do not have to be transported from the jail to the courtroom. The video-conferencing equipment was purchased by the Clark County Sheriff's Department and cost less than $1,000.
www.siftingsherald.com/articles/2007/11/27/news/news1.txt
FCC Awards Spectrum to Public Safety Group
ComputerWorld (11/27/2007), Donna Hilton
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has awarded the Public Safety Spectrum Trust Corp. (PSST), a nonprofit group with members from various public safety organizations, the license for 10 MHz in the wireless spectrum considered to be valuable. The portion of the wireless spectrum awarded to PSST was abandoned by television in light of the congressional requirement to move broadcasts to digital by 2009. The PSST spectrum will be combined with an adjacent 10 MHz that will be auctioned off in early 2008. The winner will be required to establish a nationwide wireless network that will meet both public safety and commercial needs. Then, according to the FCC, PSST will establish a network-sharing agreement with the winning bidder, with PSST becoming the administrator for this network.
www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9048180
Denver Deploys New Graffiti Surveillance System
Government Technology (11/15/07), News Report
The city and county of Denver, Colorado, in an effort to reduce the city's graffiti issue, have announced they will take part in a 30-day beta test of a newly released graffiti surveillance system. Law Enforcement Associates will provide eight Graffiti Cam units, along with training on installation and set-up and free 24-hour technical support to the Denver Police Department. Based on graffiti-related motions, the Graffiti Cam system is designed to inform law enforcement of graffiti crimes in progress. The system will provide law enforcement the chance to catch suspects in the act, as well provide video evidence for suspect identification.
www.govtech.com/gt/articles/186222
Future Cops: Police Use Tactical Technologies to Catch Criminals
FOXNews.com (11/27/07), Gene J. Koprowski
A suspect flees from the Los Angeles Police, but rather than getting involved in a dangerous, high-speed pursuit the police only follow for a few blocks. During that time, the police tag the car using a laser-guided GPS tracking system that launches a transmitter which attaches to the fleeing car. Once the car is tagged, police can then slow down and fall back, which encourages the suspect to slow down as well. The transmitter attached to the vehicle allows police to track the suspect in real-time using a wireless network. Once the vehicle stops, police can move in and arrest the suspect as he is exiting the car. This technology is being tested by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Suffolk County Police Department in New York. Now StarChase, LLC, the developer of the system, plans to move to the next phase and commercialize the product and hopes to have it on the market early next year.
www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,312953,00.html
System Lets Agencies in Area Share Data
washingtonpost.com (11/29/07), Mary Beth Sheridan
More than 60 Washington, D.C. area law enforcement agencies now have access to the Law Enforcement Information Exchange (LInX) system. LInX will allow these agencies to easily share crime reports and mug shots. Prior to the system's implementation, agencies had to make calls to other departments or actually visit the department to exchange information relating to suspects. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) launched LInX because of possible threats to naval installations, and hoped that the system would perpetuate communication between the various levels of law enforcement in an effort to protect and serve. Funding to establish the service came from NCIS and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Law enforcement will access LInX at no charge. At present, roughly 2,000 officers in the D.C. area have access, with that number expected to double before the end of the year. These officers can access 6 million mug shots and 14 million crime reports. NCIS has cre! ated similar systems in six other areas of the United States.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/28/AR2007112802401.html
Bowie Police Go High Tech
gazette.net (11/22/07), Megan King
In the past month, the Bowie (Maryland) Police Department has been able to scan more than 20,000 license plates using a new license plate recognition technology system. Since its installation on October 30, the system has alerted officers more than 300 times to violations such as stolen vehicle and suspended tags. The plates that the system scans are cross-checked against a database of statewide motor vehicle violations, as well as national criminal data. If a violation is found, the system notifies the patrol officer. The license plate scanning system allows officers to scan 5,000 plates during a 10-hour shift. The department purchased the system using donations from various businesses within Bowie, which amount to about 40 percent of the total cost of the system.
www.gazette.net/stories/112207/largnew172423_32363.shtml
Contagious Communications
Law Enforcement Technology (11/2007), p. 22, Jonathan Kozlowski
YouTube (www.youtube.com), the popular website that allows any user the ability to upload videos to the Web free of charge, can be a useful tool for law enforcement agencies seeking to improve communication with the general public and to share information with other agencies. The Broward County (Florida) Sheriff's Office is using YouTube to post public service announcements in conjunction with distributing printed materials to the community. The Office's most popular video, "Gone in 4 seconds," has been viewed almost 7 million times. The Franklin (Massachusetts) Police Department posted video of two suspects from store footage to YouTube and soon received a tip from another agency identifying the suspects. The International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC) is also using the YouTube site to post videos of missing children and educational materials.
www.officer.com/magazines/let/
Schools' Computer Flags Sex Offenders
Washington Post (12/4/2007), Ian Shapira
The Prince William County (Virginia) school system has implemented the V-soft security system to track school visitors and screen for sex offenders. The V-soft system, also known as Raptor, scans identification cards such as driver's licenses and compares the information against listings of sex offenders from across the country. The Raptor system is also in use in the Anne Arundel County (Maryland) school system and is credited with identifying three sex offenders and leading to one arrest.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/03/AR2007120302027.html
Video-Conferencing Increases Security, Saves County Time, Money
The Daily Siftings Herald (11/27/2007), Donna Hilton
Clark County, Arkansas, is saving money by using video-conferencing to allow inmates to make their first court appearances without leaving the county jail. The system uses two television sets and two cameras, which allow the inmate and judge to communicate. With the new system in place, security is improved because prisoners do not have to be transported from the jail to the courtroom. The video-conferencing equipment was purchased by the Clark County Sheriff's Department and cost less than $1,000.
www.siftingsherald.com/articles/2007/11/27/news/news1.txt
FCC Awards Spectrum to Public Safety Group
ComputerWorld (11/27/2007), Donna Hilton
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has awarded the Public Safety Spectrum Trust Corp. (PSST), a nonprofit group with members from various public safety organizations, the license for 10 MHz in the wireless spectrum considered to be valuable. The portion of the wireless spectrum awarded to PSST was abandoned by television in light of the congressional requirement to move broadcasts to digital by 2009. The PSST spectrum will be combined with an adjacent 10 MHz that will be auctioned off in early 2008. The winner will be required to establish a nationwide wireless network that will meet both public safety and commercial needs. Then, according to the FCC, PSST will establish a network-sharing agreement with the winning bidder, with PSST becoming the administrator for this network.
www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9048180
Saturday, December 08, 2007
The Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; Sometimes serious; but, always poignant. During the first half-hour of the show, the host, a nationally recognized expert on law enforcement, interviews a subject matter expert on the topic. During the second half-hour the program is joined by two other cops who give a street-level perspective to the conversation.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LawEnforcement
Opportunities For Engaging Minority Communities In Securing Our Nation
February 11, 2008
Radisson Hotel
Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
Open to the General Public
Registration Fee: $0
This one-day session explores best practices, policy and community engagement opportunities to best serve minority communities during times of distress and to increase minority community participation in efforts to better secure the nation against natural disasters and terrorism threats. This unique opportunity brings together practitioners, the community, academia, and public administrators to participate in critical dialogue that might serve as a pathway to collaborative initiatives.
MORE INFORMATION
Radisson Hotel
Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
Open to the General Public
Registration Fee: $0
This one-day session explores best practices, policy and community engagement opportunities to best serve minority communities during times of distress and to increase minority community participation in efforts to better secure the nation against natural disasters and terrorism threats. This unique opportunity brings together practitioners, the community, academia, and public administrators to participate in critical dialogue that might serve as a pathway to collaborative initiatives.
MORE INFORMATION
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
A Safety Seminar with “TEETH”!
It was billed as “Grand Master- Gary Alexander & I.A.M.A. Board of Directors Hall of Fame Banquet & Awards Ceremony. On Nov. 17th, the International Association of Martial Arts inducted several martial art icons, including legendary practitioner/actor, Chuck Norris.
Area martial arts Master, Larry Waimon, was “pleasantly shocked” when “Shihan”, (Grand Master), Alexander notified me that I would be receiving a Hall of Fame award”; (the event held in Woodbridge, NJ). The award was presented to Waimon for his 40+-year involvement in the martial arts, specifically in the category of: Sr. Master, Police Tactics & Strategies. Waimon was granted title of Sr. Police Academy Instructor by the Chief of Police Association in Essex County, NJ, back in the mid-70’s.
Under the private tutelage of the 1964 Olympic Judo Champion & Coach, Momoru Shimamoto, Waimon received his Black Belt in 1975. “Once I started my police career, I quickly grasped the notion that the “bad-guys”, weren’t going to bow to me before whacking me on the noggin with a crow bar! I quickly changed my style to Goshin Justsu, which literally means- “Self Defense”, and is what the Japanese Police train in. Ever since, I’ve shared my skills & teachings with thousands of police recruits & veterans. Though never my livelihood, I have always maintained a nucleus of students, mostly comprised of “former” battered wives, victims of rape and molestation, bullied kids, or simply those who couldn’t afford the tuition for such training… Since retiring to the area, my focus has always been to make “difference”, not to make money. It remains my intention to educate ALL area citizens, and have furnished Safety/Prevention seminars all throughout both Warren & Washington County. From the mid-80’s on, I’ve provided such training at most area high schools & civic organizations and “always” remain available to furnish this for any group who request it; (there’s “never” a fee).
The ideology here is one initially fostered back in 1860 by Charles Dickens: “Prevention is better than Cure”, i.e., if you can “prevent” an attack or altercation, you can avoid the need to address a “physical” response. All seminar participants are “astonished” to realize how simple it is to “avoid” tragedy, and physicality/ability & technique are not the significant part of my presentations. Attendees are “astonished” to realize that about 90% of all assaults can be either avoided all together, or greatly mitigated by such “awareness” training! Most importantly, I teach all to adapt a “proactive” vs. “reactive” mind-set…
My “promise” to all who attend, is that they will know “more” about self-empowerment & defense upon leaving the event, than they knew coming into it! All have a great time, and no one ever gets hurt!
That said, on December 15th. I plan to offer the most ambitious seminar & fundraiser I’ve ever involved myself in. This will be a “family oriented event, and is neither gender nor age specific. A $10 per person donation will be appreciated, and for a family of up to 4 members, $25 is requested. 100% of funds raised will be benefiting a Gulf War Vet, Christopher Gibeault of Glens Falls. I read his recent commentary in the Post Star; it accentuated the “outrage” many of us feel re: how returning war vets are being treated, (or mis-treated re: their care or lack-there-of). Chris suffers from various injuries, but most notably, in inability to chew food. In part due to the ravages of Diabetes, he has few remaining teeth, and constant infection is adding to his suffering. My goal is to raise enough to pay for dentures; this cost is $2,400.
To help kick this effort off, I’ve already discovered some “heroes” in our midst, those who like myself, wish to offer more than mere kind words or outrage. Dan Saville of Glens Falls, a Trustee of the Eagles Club in So. Glens Falls, asked and received permission, “without charge”, to use the Eagles Club facility to hold the event. Additionally, the October fest Committee of American Legion Post 574 of Hudson Falls has pledged $200 towards this effort. But my dentist, Dr. Mitchell Cohen, (Lake George & Ft. Edward), truly has “stunned” me with his selflessness! Dr. Cohen, (a Marine Vet himself), has already provided the initial assessment & has taken x-rays. He will take the impressions and extract his remaining teeth, & do all the periodic denture adjustments for the next 6 months, “without charge”!
For those wishing to attend this seminar on the 15th. The address is 80 Main Street, So Glens Falls; it will be held at 2:00pm and please call me for further details and to make reservations. I can be reached at: 761-6735. If you can’t make this event but wish to help, please feel free to call me. For any local companies who wish to offer such training for their staff, again, I urge you to call. Truly, this is a Win/Win event for both participants and this deserving Vet. It’s “our” chance to finally do more for these returning veterans than to merely offer “verbal” support or appall over the way they’re being neglected…
Area martial arts Master, Larry Waimon, was “pleasantly shocked” when “Shihan”, (Grand Master), Alexander notified me that I would be receiving a Hall of Fame award”; (the event held in Woodbridge, NJ). The award was presented to Waimon for his 40+-year involvement in the martial arts, specifically in the category of: Sr. Master, Police Tactics & Strategies. Waimon was granted title of Sr. Police Academy Instructor by the Chief of Police Association in Essex County, NJ, back in the mid-70’s.
Under the private tutelage of the 1964 Olympic Judo Champion & Coach, Momoru Shimamoto, Waimon received his Black Belt in 1975. “Once I started my police career, I quickly grasped the notion that the “bad-guys”, weren’t going to bow to me before whacking me on the noggin with a crow bar! I quickly changed my style to Goshin Justsu, which literally means- “Self Defense”, and is what the Japanese Police train in. Ever since, I’ve shared my skills & teachings with thousands of police recruits & veterans. Though never my livelihood, I have always maintained a nucleus of students, mostly comprised of “former” battered wives, victims of rape and molestation, bullied kids, or simply those who couldn’t afford the tuition for such training… Since retiring to the area, my focus has always been to make “difference”, not to make money. It remains my intention to educate ALL area citizens, and have furnished Safety/Prevention seminars all throughout both Warren & Washington County. From the mid-80’s on, I’ve provided such training at most area high schools & civic organizations and “always” remain available to furnish this for any group who request it; (there’s “never” a fee).
The ideology here is one initially fostered back in 1860 by Charles Dickens: “Prevention is better than Cure”, i.e., if you can “prevent” an attack or altercation, you can avoid the need to address a “physical” response. All seminar participants are “astonished” to realize how simple it is to “avoid” tragedy, and physicality/ability & technique are not the significant part of my presentations. Attendees are “astonished” to realize that about 90% of all assaults can be either avoided all together, or greatly mitigated by such “awareness” training! Most importantly, I teach all to adapt a “proactive” vs. “reactive” mind-set…
My “promise” to all who attend, is that they will know “more” about self-empowerment & defense upon leaving the event, than they knew coming into it! All have a great time, and no one ever gets hurt!
That said, on December 15th. I plan to offer the most ambitious seminar & fundraiser I’ve ever involved myself in. This will be a “family oriented event, and is neither gender nor age specific. A $10 per person donation will be appreciated, and for a family of up to 4 members, $25 is requested. 100% of funds raised will be benefiting a Gulf War Vet, Christopher Gibeault of Glens Falls. I read his recent commentary in the Post Star; it accentuated the “outrage” many of us feel re: how returning war vets are being treated, (or mis-treated re: their care or lack-there-of). Chris suffers from various injuries, but most notably, in inability to chew food. In part due to the ravages of Diabetes, he has few remaining teeth, and constant infection is adding to his suffering. My goal is to raise enough to pay for dentures; this cost is $2,400.
To help kick this effort off, I’ve already discovered some “heroes” in our midst, those who like myself, wish to offer more than mere kind words or outrage. Dan Saville of Glens Falls, a Trustee of the Eagles Club in So. Glens Falls, asked and received permission, “without charge”, to use the Eagles Club facility to hold the event. Additionally, the October fest Committee of American Legion Post 574 of Hudson Falls has pledged $200 towards this effort. But my dentist, Dr. Mitchell Cohen, (Lake George & Ft. Edward), truly has “stunned” me with his selflessness! Dr. Cohen, (a Marine Vet himself), has already provided the initial assessment & has taken x-rays. He will take the impressions and extract his remaining teeth, & do all the periodic denture adjustments for the next 6 months, “without charge”!
For those wishing to attend this seminar on the 15th. The address is 80 Main Street, So Glens Falls; it will be held at 2:00pm and please call me for further details and to make reservations. I can be reached at: 761-6735. If you can’t make this event but wish to help, please feel free to call me. For any local companies who wish to offer such training for their staff, again, I urge you to call. Truly, this is a Win/Win event for both participants and this deserving Vet. It’s “our” chance to finally do more for these returning veterans than to merely offer “verbal” support or appall over the way they’re being neglected…
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Law Enforcement Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), also known as UAVs, is a rapidly emerging technology that has exceptional appeal to law enforcement. A UAS consists of an unmanned aircraft, an aircraft control station, and command and control links. UAS are considered as aircraft. These aircraft can often be flown autonomously and at great distances from the command station. In addition, these aircraft can be very small, under 25 lbs and still carry enough equipment to provide video downlink capabilities. The operation of a UAS by a public agency, whether it is Federal, State or Local Law Enforcement, is enforced by FAA regulations and Federal statutes.
With the increase in use of UAS by the military in overseas operations, there has been a significant increase in the number of vendors both producing and marketing these same units to law enforcement. Prior to purchasing or leasing a UAS please consider the following: For a public aircraft operation, the FAA holds the position that a Certificate of Authorization (COA) is required to operate UAS in the National Airspace.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/law_enforcement_unmanned_aircraft_systems.html
With the increase in use of UAS by the military in overseas operations, there has been a significant increase in the number of vendors both producing and marketing these same units to law enforcement. Prior to purchasing or leasing a UAS please consider the following: For a public aircraft operation, the FAA holds the position that a Certificate of Authorization (COA) is required to operate UAS in the National Airspace.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/law_enforcement_unmanned_aircraft_systems.html
What Every Law Enforcement Officer Should Know About DNA Evidence
To increase the use of DNA technology in the criminal justice system, a five year program with more than $1 billion dollars in funding was launched in 2003. The Initiative calls for increased funding, training, and assistance to Federal, State, and local forensic labs; to police; to medical professionals; to victim service providers; and to prosecutors, defense lawyers, and judges. Part of the funding has resulted in a number of high-quality, online training courses for first responders.
What every law enforcement officer should know about DNA evidence focuses on issues that arise for the first-responding law enforcement officer during the identification, preservation, and collection of DNA evidence at a crime scene. Other courses, such as the one for investigators, provides in-depth information for the investigating officer or evidence technician on the identification, preservation, and collection of DNA evidence at a crime scene.
VIEW THE COURSE CATALOG
http://www.dna.gov/training/online-training/#lawenforcementofficers
What every law enforcement officer should know about DNA evidence focuses on issues that arise for the first-responding law enforcement officer during the identification, preservation, and collection of DNA evidence at a crime scene. Other courses, such as the one for investigators, provides in-depth information for the investigating officer or evidence technician on the identification, preservation, and collection of DNA evidence at a crime scene.
VIEW THE COURSE CATALOG
http://www.dna.gov/training/online-training/#lawenforcementofficers
Police Lineups: Making Eyewitness Identification More Reliable
In 1981, 22-year-old Jerry Miller was arrested and charged with robbing, kidnapping, and raping a woman. Two witnesses identified Miller, in a police lineup, as the perpetrator. The victim provided a more tentative identification at trial. Miller was convicted, served 24 years in prison, and was released on parole as a registered sex offender, requiring him to wear an electronic monitoring device at all times.
Recent DNA tests, however, tell a different story: Semen taken from the victim’s clothing—which could have come only from the perpetrator—did not come from Miller. In fact, when a DNA profile was created from the semen and entered into the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s convicted offender database, another man was implicated in the crime.
On April 23, 2007, Miller became the 200th person in the United States to be exonerated through DNA evidence.
Eyewitnesses play a vital role in the administration of justice in this country. Their testimony can provide the key to identifying, charging, and convicting a suspect in a criminal case. Indeed, in some cases, eyewitness evidence may be the only evidence available.
Yet cases like Miller’s show that eyewitness evidence is not perfect. Even the most well-intentioned witnesses can identify the wrong person or fail to identify the perpetrator of a crime. According to the American Judicature Society, misidentification by eyewitnesses was the leading cause of wrongful conviction in more than 75 percent of the first 183 DNA exonerations in the United States.
These cases have caused criminal justice professionals to take a closer look at eyewitness evidence, specifically at the effectiveness of identifying suspects from photographic and live lineups. And recent studies on lineup structure and implementation have led to even more questions and disagreement in the field, highlighting the need for more research and dialogue about what works. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has initiated a multi-site field experiment of eyewitness evidence to examine the effectiveness and accuracy of this crucial and powerful component of the Nation’s criminal justice system as it is used in police departments and courtrooms across the country.
READ ON
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/journals/258/police-lineups.html
Recent DNA tests, however, tell a different story: Semen taken from the victim’s clothing—which could have come only from the perpetrator—did not come from Miller. In fact, when a DNA profile was created from the semen and entered into the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s convicted offender database, another man was implicated in the crime.
On April 23, 2007, Miller became the 200th person in the United States to be exonerated through DNA evidence.
Eyewitnesses play a vital role in the administration of justice in this country. Their testimony can provide the key to identifying, charging, and convicting a suspect in a criminal case. Indeed, in some cases, eyewitness evidence may be the only evidence available.
Yet cases like Miller’s show that eyewitness evidence is not perfect. Even the most well-intentioned witnesses can identify the wrong person or fail to identify the perpetrator of a crime. According to the American Judicature Society, misidentification by eyewitnesses was the leading cause of wrongful conviction in more than 75 percent of the first 183 DNA exonerations in the United States.
These cases have caused criminal justice professionals to take a closer look at eyewitness evidence, specifically at the effectiveness of identifying suspects from photographic and live lineups. And recent studies on lineup structure and implementation have led to even more questions and disagreement in the field, highlighting the need for more research and dialogue about what works. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has initiated a multi-site field experiment of eyewitness evidence to examine the effectiveness and accuracy of this crucial and powerful component of the Nation’s criminal justice system as it is used in police departments and courtrooms across the country.
READ ON
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/journals/258/police-lineups.html
Narcs and Weapons
As a drug enforcement officer/detective, working undercover (UC) is the grass roots of what we do. This can be as complex as interjecting yourself into an organization or as simple as pretending to be a drunk passed out of a bench in order to conduct some type of strategic surveillance. Either way you are pretending to be someone you are not and have to alter your tactical options accordingly. Due to operational security it would not be prudent for me to go into to much detail on this subject on an open website. But, there are a few things that that can be addressed that are relevant.
Obviously, as a UC you cannot go into operational situations with a gun belt containing all the tricks of the trade. At most your only weapon is going to be some type of firearm. What that weapon is and how you carry it could be the difference between life and death of the UC. With everything going on during a UC buy it is a challenge to stay in the UC mindset and remain as tactically sound as you can. Often, someone else dictates situations, positions and surprises are always around the corner.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/narcs_weapons.html
Obviously, as a UC you cannot go into operational situations with a gun belt containing all the tricks of the trade. At most your only weapon is going to be some type of firearm. What that weapon is and how you carry it could be the difference between life and death of the UC. With everything going on during a UC buy it is a challenge to stay in the UC mindset and remain as tactically sound as you can. Often, someone else dictates situations, positions and surprises are always around the corner.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/narcs_weapons.html
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