Dale Griffis, Ph.D, former police captain with the Tiffin Police Department and internationally known law enforcement specialist, is the 72nd author listed by Police-Writers.com. His book “Secret Weapons : Two Sisters' Terrifying True Story of Sex, Spies and Sabotage” is the 170th book listed on the website.
Click for more information about his book
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Thursday, July 27, 2006
COP PUBLISHES CHILDREN’S BOOK
(San Dimas, CA) On July 26, 2006, police-writers.com added its first cop authored children’s book. According to Raymond E. Foster, the editor of the list, “Sergeant Randy Garcia, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department authored The Trunk and the Tortoise which is the first in his planned series, The Streamer Trunk Adventures.” Garcia is the 67th state or local police officer to be added to the list. His contribution brings the total number of cop authored books to 158.
In Garcia’s book, the main character Hunter is based on Garcia’s son. According to the book release, “Hunter has just completed the fourth grade and is not looking forward to spending another boring summer hanging around the house. When his grandfather, Captain Mike, sails into town, toting his mysterious steamer trunk, Hunter quickly formulates a plan. He stows away in the trunk, and the two begin an adventurous sailing trip filled with peril and excitement. Unwittingly, they stumble across a nefarious plan to smuggle endangered tortoises from the Galapagos Islands.”
Police-writers.com now lists 67 state or local police officers who have written 158 books. The website can be searched by author, department and category. The categories are fiction, true crime, biographical, academic, tactical and other. The police officers listed on the site come from 35 different departments.
Twenty-six writers are listed from the Los Angeles Police Department, giving it the distinction as the number one originator of cop writers. While the New York Police Department is running a distant second, with eight writers, “that is likely to change.” says Foster. Foster added, “we are finding new authors all the time and given the number there are probably plenty more NYPD cops who have published.”
In Garcia’s book, the main character Hunter is based on Garcia’s son. According to the book release, “Hunter has just completed the fourth grade and is not looking forward to spending another boring summer hanging around the house. When his grandfather, Captain Mike, sails into town, toting his mysterious steamer trunk, Hunter quickly formulates a plan. He stows away in the trunk, and the two begin an adventurous sailing trip filled with peril and excitement. Unwittingly, they stumble across a nefarious plan to smuggle endangered tortoises from the Galapagos Islands.”
Police-writers.com now lists 67 state or local police officers who have written 158 books. The website can be searched by author, department and category. The categories are fiction, true crime, biographical, academic, tactical and other. The police officers listed on the site come from 35 different departments.
Twenty-six writers are listed from the Los Angeles Police Department, giving it the distinction as the number one originator of cop writers. While the New York Police Department is running a distant second, with eight writers, “that is likely to change.” says Foster. Foster added, “we are finding new authors all the time and given the number there are probably plenty more NYPD cops who have published.”
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Retiree Wages 10-Year Battle to Clear Name After Identity Theft
By Elaine Wilson
FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas, July 25, 2006 – John Smith's house wasn't ransacked, his wallet was never snatched, nor was his life threatened in exchange for a handful of cash on a dimly lit city street. Identity theft can happen to anyone. Experts recommend checking your credit reports periodically.
Yet he was robbed of something he will spend the rest of his life trying to reclaim -- his identity. The crime left him saddled with thousands of dollars of debt, a plunging credit score and costly disputes with creditors that have lasted for more than a decade. "I've been fighting this battle since 1996," the retired Army major said. "The scary part is I don't know when or if it will ever end."
Smith is a victim of identity theft, one of an estimated 10 million U.S. victims each year, according to the FBI. Identity thieves steal records, bank statements, mail, credit reports and even "dumpster dive" to obtain personal information. They use the stolen information to open credit card, bank and cell phone accounts, and may even use a stolen identity to get a job or skip out on a court date after an arrest. Victims can spend years recovering their good name and credit record, both infinitely more valuable than any number of stolen ID or credit cards.
"Thieves have gotten more sophisticated over the years," said Brian J. Novak, legal assistance attorney here. "Identity theft offers a way to rob the bank without physically running into the bank and risking violence." The topic has become a hot one in today's globally connected society where company laptops are stolen and hacked and consumers regularly send off personal information into cyberspace, and into the hands of "phishers," without a second thought. Along with the personal devastation, the crime has a hefty price tag, costing American businesses and consumers a reported $50 billion a year, according to the FBI.
Although in the limelight today, 10 years ago identity theft was barely a household term, particularly for an Army major with a flawless payment history and perfect credit. Smith was blissfully unaware of any troubles in 1996. He and his family had just served a three-year stint at an Army post in Europe. He returned home and applied for a home loan with the confidence brought about by years of low interest rates. To his surprise, he was denied.
"They told me I had horrible credit," he said. "I couldn't believe it. I never missed a payment on anything." He immediately ordered a credit report and saw delinquent charge after delinquent charge racked up throughout the southern half of the country -- New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, Kentucky, Tennessee and California. Although Smith never physically lost his wallet or ID cards, a thief had obtained his information and was roaming throughout the country posing as Smith, using his name, past addresses and Social Security number. Smith contacted a few of the creditors and saw the forms the identity thief filled out with handwriting completely different from his own. For a cell phone company, the thief even posed as a carpet cleaner, a job the physician assistant had never held.
In the three years Smith was in Europe, the fugitive had piled up thousands of dollars in debt and left a breadcrumb trail of overdue cell phone bills, delinquent credit cards and exorbitant, unpaid department store purchases. Smith was shocked. "He had too much information, more than he could have gotten off of a check," he said. "It had to be someone who found information in my wallet while I was at the gym or someone from finance or personnel."
Smith immediately ordered a fraud alert so he would be notified whenever someone used his name or Social Security number to apply for credit and told credit agencies about his situation. He also painstakingly copied records and reports proving he was nowhere near where the debts were incurred.
But for dozens of unpaid creditors, the question was never which was the real John Smith, but which one was going to pay. Smith's answer every time has been, "not me."
"I have a two-drawer file cabinet just devoted to identity theft," he said. "For every discrepancy on my report, I have to make copies and send them through certified mail. It's exceedingly time consuming, but I haven't had to pay for a debt yet." However, Smith has paid a different price. "I had bad credit for a while, very poor credit," he said. "Each time I apply for credit I have to go prove that I'm not a bad risk. My credit has improved a lot but my interest rates are still higher than they should be.
"Even if you win a case, you still lose," Smith said. "You take a loss, whether it's paperwork or credit scores." Smith is still haunted 10 years later by crimes he didn't commit with delinquent notices and threats of lawsuits. He can't change the past, but Smith hopes that by sharing his story he can help others protect their future.
"Protect your identity," he advises. "Don't leave your personal information unlocked in the gym or in your car. Limit how much information you give out. And check your credit report once or twice a year. "I made the mistake of not checking my credit annually, especially while I was overseas," he added. "If I had, I may have been able to catch the problem sooner and nip it in the bud before it got as far as it did."
And for those battling the crime, "Get to a lawyer," he said. "You can get through it, but you'll need the help." *The name was changed to protect the subject's identity.
FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas, July 25, 2006 – John Smith's house wasn't ransacked, his wallet was never snatched, nor was his life threatened in exchange for a handful of cash on a dimly lit city street. Identity theft can happen to anyone. Experts recommend checking your credit reports periodically.
Yet he was robbed of something he will spend the rest of his life trying to reclaim -- his identity. The crime left him saddled with thousands of dollars of debt, a plunging credit score and costly disputes with creditors that have lasted for more than a decade. "I've been fighting this battle since 1996," the retired Army major said. "The scary part is I don't know when or if it will ever end."
Smith is a victim of identity theft, one of an estimated 10 million U.S. victims each year, according to the FBI. Identity thieves steal records, bank statements, mail, credit reports and even "dumpster dive" to obtain personal information. They use the stolen information to open credit card, bank and cell phone accounts, and may even use a stolen identity to get a job or skip out on a court date after an arrest. Victims can spend years recovering their good name and credit record, both infinitely more valuable than any number of stolen ID or credit cards.
"Thieves have gotten more sophisticated over the years," said Brian J. Novak, legal assistance attorney here. "Identity theft offers a way to rob the bank without physically running into the bank and risking violence." The topic has become a hot one in today's globally connected society where company laptops are stolen and hacked and consumers regularly send off personal information into cyberspace, and into the hands of "phishers," without a second thought. Along with the personal devastation, the crime has a hefty price tag, costing American businesses and consumers a reported $50 billion a year, according to the FBI.
Although in the limelight today, 10 years ago identity theft was barely a household term, particularly for an Army major with a flawless payment history and perfect credit. Smith was blissfully unaware of any troubles in 1996. He and his family had just served a three-year stint at an Army post in Europe. He returned home and applied for a home loan with the confidence brought about by years of low interest rates. To his surprise, he was denied.
"They told me I had horrible credit," he said. "I couldn't believe it. I never missed a payment on anything." He immediately ordered a credit report and saw delinquent charge after delinquent charge racked up throughout the southern half of the country -- New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, Kentucky, Tennessee and California. Although Smith never physically lost his wallet or ID cards, a thief had obtained his information and was roaming throughout the country posing as Smith, using his name, past addresses and Social Security number. Smith contacted a few of the creditors and saw the forms the identity thief filled out with handwriting completely different from his own. For a cell phone company, the thief even posed as a carpet cleaner, a job the physician assistant had never held.
In the three years Smith was in Europe, the fugitive had piled up thousands of dollars in debt and left a breadcrumb trail of overdue cell phone bills, delinquent credit cards and exorbitant, unpaid department store purchases. Smith was shocked. "He had too much information, more than he could have gotten off of a check," he said. "It had to be someone who found information in my wallet while I was at the gym or someone from finance or personnel."
Smith immediately ordered a fraud alert so he would be notified whenever someone used his name or Social Security number to apply for credit and told credit agencies about his situation. He also painstakingly copied records and reports proving he was nowhere near where the debts were incurred.
But for dozens of unpaid creditors, the question was never which was the real John Smith, but which one was going to pay. Smith's answer every time has been, "not me."
"I have a two-drawer file cabinet just devoted to identity theft," he said. "For every discrepancy on my report, I have to make copies and send them through certified mail. It's exceedingly time consuming, but I haven't had to pay for a debt yet." However, Smith has paid a different price. "I had bad credit for a while, very poor credit," he said. "Each time I apply for credit I have to go prove that I'm not a bad risk. My credit has improved a lot but my interest rates are still higher than they should be.
"Even if you win a case, you still lose," Smith said. "You take a loss, whether it's paperwork or credit scores." Smith is still haunted 10 years later by crimes he didn't commit with delinquent notices and threats of lawsuits. He can't change the past, but Smith hopes that by sharing his story he can help others protect their future.
"Protect your identity," he advises. "Don't leave your personal information unlocked in the gym or in your car. Limit how much information you give out. And check your credit report once or twice a year. "I made the mistake of not checking my credit annually, especially while I was overseas," he added. "If I had, I may have been able to catch the problem sooner and nip it in the bud before it got as far as it did."
And for those battling the crime, "Get to a lawyer," he said. "You can get through it, but you'll need the help." *The name was changed to protect the subject's identity.
Friday, July 21, 2006
Terrorism Picks
The Washington Post asked Peter Bergen, a journalists who met and interviewed Osama bin Laden, and Warren Bass, a 9/11 Commission staffer pick the best books on terrorism.
Click to view their selections
http://www.hitechcj.com/homelandsecurity/terrorism_books.html
Click to view their selections
http://www.hitechcj.com/homelandsecurity/terrorism_books.html
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Crime Mapping Research Conference
The National Institute of Justice is accepting papers to be presented at the 9th Crime Mapping Research Conference.
The Crime Mapping Research Conference is about the study of society and its relationship with the elements that contribute to crime and the implementation of criminal justice. Papers can be submitted on a wide range of issues—from technical solutions to research methods to applied practices to policy decisions that impact society.
Deadline for submission: September 29, 2006
The Conference takes place March 28-31, 2007, in Pittsburgh, PA.
Application form: In PDF In MS Word
Learn more about the Conference at: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/maps/
The Crime Mapping Research Conference is about the study of society and its relationship with the elements that contribute to crime and the implementation of criminal justice. Papers can be submitted on a wide range of issues—from technical solutions to research methods to applied practices to policy decisions that impact society.
Deadline for submission: September 29, 2006
The Conference takes place March 28-31, 2007, in Pittsburgh, PA.
Application form: In PDF In MS Word
Learn more about the Conference at: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/maps/
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
War College Guide to National Security Policy Available for Download
This edition (408 pages in PDF Format) of the U. S. Army War College Guide to National Security Policy and Strategy reflects to some extent recent changes in the structure of the core curriculum at the War College. The college broke its traditional core course, “War, National Policy and Strategy,” into two courses: “Theory of War and Strategy” and “National Security Policy and Strategy.” The result for this book is the expansion of the block on strategic theory and the introduction of a block on specific strategic issues. Because little time has past since the publication of the most recent version of this book, this edition is largely an expansion of its predecessor rather than a major rewriting. Several chapters are new and others have undergone significant rewrites or updates, but about two-thirds of the book remains unchanged. Although this is not primarily a textbook, it does reflect both the method and manner we use to teach strategy formulation to America’s future senior leaders. The book is also not a comprehensive or exhaustive treatment of either strategy or the policymaking process. The Guide is organized in broad groups of chapters addressing general subject areas. We begin with a look at some specific issues about the general security environment—largely international. The section on strategic thought and formulation includes chapters on broad issues of strategy formulation as well as some basic strategic theory. The third section is about the elements of national power. A section on the national security policymaking process in the United States precedes the final section that deals with selected strategic issues.
http://www.hitechcj.com/homelandsecurity/war_college_guide.html
http://www.hitechcj.com/homelandsecurity/war_college_guide.html
Thursday, July 13, 2006
CrimeWeb
CrimeWeb is a free, centralized web based clearinghouse designed to facilitate the timely and efficient exchange of public safety related information between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
This is an email, zip code based service. You enter your ZIP and email, if there is a public safety announcement - like a missing child, or major crime, in your area, you receive an email. It was developed by a Texas Police Captain as part of his FBI National Academy Project.
http://www.crimeweb.net/
Raymond
www.criminaljustice-online.com
This is an email, zip code based service. You enter your ZIP and email, if there is a public safety announcement - like a missing child, or major crime, in your area, you receive an email. It was developed by a Texas Police Captain as part of his FBI National Academy Project.
http://www.crimeweb.net/
Raymond
www.criminaljustice-online.com
Monday, July 10, 2006
65th Police Writer
Dale Ford, retired from the Midwest City Police Department (Oklahoma), joins his brother and sister police officers with Inconceivable Danger; a true crime story about the hunt for a dangerous drug lord in the Midwest. Dale is the 65th police officer to be listed on www.police-writers.com and marks the 154th listed book written by American Police Officers.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Racist extremists active in U.S. military
July 7, 2006 -- Under pressure to meet wartime manpower goals, the U.S. military has relaxed standards designed to weed out racist extremists. Large numbers of potentially violent neo-Nazis, skinheads and other white supremacists are now learning the art of warfare in the armed forces.
Department of Defense investigators estimate thousands of soldiers in the Army alone are involved in extremist or gang activity. "We've got Aryan Nations graffiti in Baghdad," said one investigator. "That's a problem."
Southern Poverty Law Center President Richard Cohen urged Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld to adopt a zero-tolerance policy regarding racist extremism among members of the U.S. military.
"Because hate group membership and extremist activity are antithetical to the values and mission of our armed forces, we urge you to adopt a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to white supremacy in the military and to take all necessary steps to ensure that the policy is rigorously enforced," Cohen wrote in a letter to Rumsfeld
READ ON
Department of Defense investigators estimate thousands of soldiers in the Army alone are involved in extremist or gang activity. "We've got Aryan Nations graffiti in Baghdad," said one investigator. "That's a problem."
Southern Poverty Law Center President Richard Cohen urged Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld to adopt a zero-tolerance policy regarding racist extremism among members of the U.S. military.
"Because hate group membership and extremist activity are antithetical to the values and mission of our armed forces, we urge you to adopt a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to white supremacy in the military and to take all necessary steps to ensure that the policy is rigorously enforced," Cohen wrote in a letter to Rumsfeld
READ ON
Saturday, July 08, 2006
64th Police Writer
Police Writers, a website dedicated to police officers who have written books added the 64TH author, retired sergeant David Jebb, of the San Diego Police Department (California). Jebb's book, The Thirteenth Time Zone brings the total number of listeed books written by police officers to 153.
Click to visit Police Writer
www.police-writers.com
Click to visit Police Writer
www.police-writers.com
Police Writers add author
Police Writers, a website dedicated to police officers who have written books added the 63rd author, Quintin Peterson of the Metropolitan Police Department, Washington DC. Peterson’s two books, “The Wages of Sin” and “Sin” bring the total number of listed books written by police officers to 152.
Click to visit Police Writers http://www.police-writers.com/
Click to visit Police Writers http://www.police-writers.com/
Friday, July 07, 2006
Hurricane and Disaster Planning Workshop for Law Enforcement and Emergency Planners
Dates: August 17, 2006
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
Application Deadline: July 27, 2006
The National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center Southeast Region (NLECTC-Southeast), a program of the National Institute of Justice, and the University of South Carolina's Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice are sponsoring a Hurricane and Disaster Planning Workshop for August 17, 2006. The purpose of this one-day workshop is to bring representatives of agencies likely to experience a hurricane or similar disaster (natural or man-made), together with those who have experienced one to share solutions, discuss outstanding issues, and review current disaster plans. Attendees will gain insight into the hard lessons learned from past events, along with knowledge of model plans that have been developed from these experiences.
Application Form
Space is limited. Please download the application form and fax or mail the completed form to:
http://www.justnet.org/pdffiles/hurricane_workshop_2006.pdf
NLECTC-Southeast
Attn: Bill Deck
5300 International Blvd.
North Charleston, SC 29418
Fax: 843-207-5283
Tentative Agenda
0900-0930 Opening Remarks
University of South Carolina
NLECTC-Southeast
South Carolina Department of Public Safety
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
0930-1045 Definition of a Disaster
Experiences of the Slidell, Louisiana Police Department
Chief Freddy Drennan
1045-1115 Break
1115-1230 Law Enforcement Lessons Learned from Hurricane Katrina
Mike Smith and Jeff Rojek
University of South Carolina
1230-1400 Lunch (not provided)
1400-1600 Planning, Preparation, and Response to Disaster
Jim Madden, Florida Department of Law Enforcement
1600-1630 Questions and Closing Remarks
Freddy Drennan, Jim Madden, Jeff Rojek, and Mike Smith
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
Application Deadline: July 27, 2006
The National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center Southeast Region (NLECTC-Southeast), a program of the National Institute of Justice, and the University of South Carolina's Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice are sponsoring a Hurricane and Disaster Planning Workshop for August 17, 2006. The purpose of this one-day workshop is to bring representatives of agencies likely to experience a hurricane or similar disaster (natural or man-made), together with those who have experienced one to share solutions, discuss outstanding issues, and review current disaster plans. Attendees will gain insight into the hard lessons learned from past events, along with knowledge of model plans that have been developed from these experiences.
Application Form
Space is limited. Please download the application form and fax or mail the completed form to:
http://www.justnet.org/pdffiles/hurricane_workshop_2006.pdf
NLECTC-Southeast
Attn: Bill Deck
5300 International Blvd.
North Charleston, SC 29418
Fax: 843-207-5283
Tentative Agenda
0900-0930 Opening Remarks
University of South Carolina
NLECTC-Southeast
South Carolina Department of Public Safety
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
0930-1045 Definition of a Disaster
Experiences of the Slidell, Louisiana Police Department
Chief Freddy Drennan
1045-1115 Break
1115-1230 Law Enforcement Lessons Learned from Hurricane Katrina
Mike Smith and Jeff Rojek
University of South Carolina
1230-1400 Lunch (not provided)
1400-1600 Planning, Preparation, and Response to Disaster
Jim Madden, Florida Department of Law Enforcement
1600-1630 Questions and Closing Remarks
Freddy Drennan, Jim Madden, Jeff Rojek, and Mike Smith
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
OSINT SOURCE
After a nearly 24 month hiatus IntellNet.org has been re-launched.Founded in early 2000 as a private project to more easily disseminate information, during the 4 years since its creation IntellNet proved itself to be a great source of knowledge. With today's re-launch, The Intelligence Network will stand upon the shoulders of giants in order to see further and push higher; expanding upon the very foundations of the U.S.Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) community.
According to Brooke Isoldi, general editor of the website, “It is with both humility and courage that we acknowledge those that not only came before, but after as well in what has become a global effort to achieve synergy with the flow of information. In the coming months, we will unveil initiatives designed to enhance and develop current and new capabilities as well as extend our reach into both existing and un-chartered territories. In line with these developments, I have placed the IntellNet website and The OSINT Group under the umbrella of The Intelligence Network where they will be autonomous divisions with similar methods and common goals. New divisions will be created as more initiatives are deployed and we will be increasingly in need of intelligent, savvy and thoughtful individuals to staff them. Additionally, The Intelligence Network will maintain an open door policy to any similar organizations willing to collaborate, on any level in order to further our common goals.”
According to Brooke Isoldi, general editor of the website, “It is with both humility and courage that we acknowledge those that not only came before, but after as well in what has become a global effort to achieve synergy with the flow of information. In the coming months, we will unveil initiatives designed to enhance and develop current and new capabilities as well as extend our reach into both existing and un-chartered territories. In line with these developments, I have placed the IntellNet website and The OSINT Group under the umbrella of The Intelligence Network where they will be autonomous divisions with similar methods and common goals. New divisions will be created as more initiatives are deployed and we will be increasingly in need of intelligent, savvy and thoughtful individuals to staff them. Additionally, The Intelligence Network will maintain an open door policy to any similar organizations willing to collaborate, on any level in order to further our common goals.”
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Police Writers gathered in one virtual location
Hi Tech Criminal Justice launched a website dedicated to police officers turned writers. According to CEO Raymond E. Foster, “Nearly everyone knows the work of Joseph Wambaugh, but how many know that police officers were writing books in the late nineteenth century?” Early police authors such as George Walling and August Vollmer were very influential on the development of American policing. Police authors writing in the late 20th century contributed to the field in areas such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, management, leadership and technology.
“In addition to the academic contributions, police officers have provided us with some of the best crime fiction,” Foster said. Who better to write in the mystery genre of the police procedural than the police officer. Police authors bring their training, experience and creativity to their work; giving the reader an authentic, insider’s view of human nature, crime and police procedures. Police authors like Dallas Barnes, Joseph Wambaugh and Paul Bishop write fiction from the perspective of someone who has seen, smelled, tasted and touched the crime scene.
While some police authors approach crime from an academic standpoint or a fictional point of view, others dissect real crime. There are no better guides through real crime than those who have spent years walking the walk. Crime reporters and journalists rely on police officers for information and interpretation of evidence and events. “A police authors cuts out the middleman or secondary interpreter, and gives the reader a first hand, first class storyteller,” Foster said.
An overriding factor in attracting people to the profession of policing is that every day is different. “Cops see every twist of human nature. They make order our of chaos when the world goes sideways; and, they often handle tense situations after dark and without a manual,” Foster noted. Simply put, police officers are choked full of the best and worst stories of humanity under pressure. The best police authors are able to take these “war stories” and weave them into an interesting and insightful look at America’s streets. These semi-biographical tales stand tall along side the academic, fictional and true crime. Foster added, “It would be a mistake to pigeon hole police authors in some narrow crime genre. Cops have written outstanding works from poetry to politics.”
According to Foster, the website currently has 60 police authors who have written over 140 books. In addition to being accessed by author name, they are categorized by police department (29) and by subject. Hi Tech Criminal Justice realizes this is an ongoing research project and encourages submission of authors not listed. The website and contact information can be access at www.police-writers.com
“In addition to the academic contributions, police officers have provided us with some of the best crime fiction,” Foster said. Who better to write in the mystery genre of the police procedural than the police officer. Police authors bring their training, experience and creativity to their work; giving the reader an authentic, insider’s view of human nature, crime and police procedures. Police authors like Dallas Barnes, Joseph Wambaugh and Paul Bishop write fiction from the perspective of someone who has seen, smelled, tasted and touched the crime scene.
While some police authors approach crime from an academic standpoint or a fictional point of view, others dissect real crime. There are no better guides through real crime than those who have spent years walking the walk. Crime reporters and journalists rely on police officers for information and interpretation of evidence and events. “A police authors cuts out the middleman or secondary interpreter, and gives the reader a first hand, first class storyteller,” Foster said.
An overriding factor in attracting people to the profession of policing is that every day is different. “Cops see every twist of human nature. They make order our of chaos when the world goes sideways; and, they often handle tense situations after dark and without a manual,” Foster noted. Simply put, police officers are choked full of the best and worst stories of humanity under pressure. The best police authors are able to take these “war stories” and weave them into an interesting and insightful look at America’s streets. These semi-biographical tales stand tall along side the academic, fictional and true crime. Foster added, “It would be a mistake to pigeon hole police authors in some narrow crime genre. Cops have written outstanding works from poetry to politics.”
According to Foster, the website currently has 60 police authors who have written over 140 books. In addition to being accessed by author name, they are categorized by police department (29) and by subject. Hi Tech Criminal Justice realizes this is an ongoing research project and encourages submission of authors not listed. The website and contact information can be access at www.police-writers.com
Stolen VA Laptop Turned in to FBI
By Steven Donald Smith
WASHINGTON, June 29, 2006 – The stolen Department of Veterans Affairs laptop computer and hard drive containing the personal information of more than 26 million veterans were turned in to the FBI yesterday, the Veterans Affairs secretary said before Congress today. Reports indicate that the FBI has made a preliminary determination that data contained on the computer and hard drive has not been accessed.
There have been no reports of identity theft or other criminal activity related to the stolen computer, R. James Nicholson told the House Veterans Affairs Committee. He added that the VA would still honor its promise of free credit monitoring for a year. An unnamed individual turned over the laptop and hard drive to FBI officials in Baltimore. No persons are in custody at this time, officials said.
The laptop and hard drive were stolen from the Montgomery County, Md., home of a VA employee on May 3. Government officials do not believe the data on the laptop was the target of the burglary, and consider the break-in a random theft. "This has brought to the light of day some real deficiencies in the manner we handled personal data," Nicholson said. "If there's a redeeming part of this, I think we can turn this around."
WASHINGTON, June 29, 2006 – The stolen Department of Veterans Affairs laptop computer and hard drive containing the personal information of more than 26 million veterans were turned in to the FBI yesterday, the Veterans Affairs secretary said before Congress today. Reports indicate that the FBI has made a preliminary determination that data contained on the computer and hard drive has not been accessed.
There have been no reports of identity theft or other criminal activity related to the stolen computer, R. James Nicholson told the House Veterans Affairs Committee. He added that the VA would still honor its promise of free credit monitoring for a year. An unnamed individual turned over the laptop and hard drive to FBI officials in Baltimore. No persons are in custody at this time, officials said.
The laptop and hard drive were stolen from the Montgomery County, Md., home of a VA employee on May 3. Government officials do not believe the data on the laptop was the target of the burglary, and consider the break-in a random theft. "This has brought to the light of day some real deficiencies in the manner we handled personal data," Nicholson said. "If there's a redeeming part of this, I think we can turn this around."
Thursday, June 15, 2006
“Dirty Bomb” Attack: Assessing New York City’s Level of Preparedness from a First Responder’s Perspective
By John Sudnik
Deputy Chief, Fire Department City of New York (FDNY)
Past history and recent intelligence have shown that New York City (NYC), a critical node of the U.S. economy, is clearly in the terrorist’s crosshairs. In order to reduce the probability, lessen the risk, and minimize the consequences of a Radiological Dispersion Device (RDD), or “dirty bomb,” attack, NYC’s first responders must be adequately prepared for its seemingly inevitable occurrence. This particular type of attack on NYC has the potential to create immense panic and confusion on behalf of the general public. Adding to the complexity of the problem is the notion that, since 9/11, the expected actions taken by employees in NYC high-rise office buildings in response to shelter-in-place instructions can be extremely difficult to predict. Therefore, a proposed public awareness campaign and a shelter-in-place plan are two cost-effective and easily implemented terrorism preparedness programs that would build the confidence and increase the capability of the citizenry. Since an RDD incident would likely result in a major inter-agency emergency operation, the unification of command, control, and coordination among NYC’s first responder community is an essential element to its overall success. Hence, an informed and collaborative response by both public and private sector entities could potentially reduce casualties and save lives.
Download a copy of the report
Deputy Chief, Fire Department City of New York (FDNY)
Past history and recent intelligence have shown that New York City (NYC), a critical node of the U.S. economy, is clearly in the terrorist’s crosshairs. In order to reduce the probability, lessen the risk, and minimize the consequences of a Radiological Dispersion Device (RDD), or “dirty bomb,” attack, NYC’s first responders must be adequately prepared for its seemingly inevitable occurrence. This particular type of attack on NYC has the potential to create immense panic and confusion on behalf of the general public. Adding to the complexity of the problem is the notion that, since 9/11, the expected actions taken by employees in NYC high-rise office buildings in response to shelter-in-place instructions can be extremely difficult to predict. Therefore, a proposed public awareness campaign and a shelter-in-place plan are two cost-effective and easily implemented terrorism preparedness programs that would build the confidence and increase the capability of the citizenry. Since an RDD incident would likely result in a major inter-agency emergency operation, the unification of command, control, and coordination among NYC’s first responder community is an essential element to its overall success. Hence, an informed and collaborative response by both public and private sector entities could potentially reduce casualties and save lives.
Download a copy of the report
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
More Sex Offenders Tracked by Satellite
"More Sex Offenders Tracked by Satellite"
USA Today (06/07/06) P. 3A; Koch, Wendy
Wisconsin has joined the growing list of states, now numbering at least 24, using GPS technology to track released sex offenders, many for life. The technology is now capable of monitoring a parolee's position to within 30 feet and can alert officers when a trackee has entered an "exclusion zone" at a fraction of the cost it takes to maintain prison inmates or track offenders using other methods. Some states even require offenders to foot the bill for tracking. Analysis conducted by the Florida Department of Corrections in late 2004 showed a 3.8 recidivism rate among offenders tracked with GPS within two years, compared to 7.7 percent for those not tracked with the technology. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the U.S. Senate and House have each approved a measure that would provide federal funding for GPS tracking.
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/techinnovations/2006-06-06-gps-tracking_x.htm
USA Today (06/07/06) P. 3A; Koch, Wendy
Wisconsin has joined the growing list of states, now numbering at least 24, using GPS technology to track released sex offenders, many for life. The technology is now capable of monitoring a parolee's position to within 30 feet and can alert officers when a trackee has entered an "exclusion zone" at a fraction of the cost it takes to maintain prison inmates or track offenders using other methods. Some states even require offenders to foot the bill for tracking. Analysis conducted by the Florida Department of Corrections in late 2004 showed a 3.8 recidivism rate among offenders tracked with GPS within two years, compared to 7.7 percent for those not tracked with the technology. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the U.S. Senate and House have each approved a measure that would provide federal funding for GPS tracking.
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/techinnovations/2006-06-06-gps-tracking_x.htm
Friday, June 02, 2006
Urban Areas Security Initiative
Discussion of the FY 2006 Risk Methodology and the Urban Areas Security Initiative
The FY 2006 DHS risk methodology represents a major step forward in the analysis of the risk of terrorism faced by our Nations communities. Tremendous gains have been made in both the quality and specificity of information and analysis incorporated within the model, yielding the most accurate estimation possible of the relative risk of prospective grant candidates. The methodology is designed to inform a policy decision regarding the allocation and investment of Federal grant funding, and should not be confused with an estimate of absolute risk faced by candidate areas.
READ ON
The FY 2006 DHS risk methodology represents a major step forward in the analysis of the risk of terrorism faced by our Nations communities. Tremendous gains have been made in both the quality and specificity of information and analysis incorporated within the model, yielding the most accurate estimation possible of the relative risk of prospective grant candidates. The methodology is designed to inform a policy decision regarding the allocation and investment of Federal grant funding, and should not be confused with an estimate of absolute risk faced by candidate areas.
READ ON
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Management Development Seminar
Management Development Seminar:
Leading Organizations
Unleashing the Full Potential of Organizational Performance
In this seminar, experienced mid-level managers step into the world of dynamic thinking, creativity, and innovative, results-producing performance. The seminar consists of two exciting weeks of sessions that expose managers to new approaches and processes. Participants are shown ways to achieve superior levels of organizational excellence and to deal with the day-to-day challenges of their workplace. Managers bring real problems to the seminar. These "live case studies" are used to develop the skills and knowledge needed to deal more effectively with the rapidly changing Federal environment.
Learning techniques include practical exercises, case studies, experiential activities with facilitated debriefings, and discussions and presentations with real-time feedback. There are also opportunities for the exchange of ideas with colleagues from other agencies. Assessment instruments that provide 360-degree feedback are used to develop information on how the participants are perceived by their customers, peers, employees, and superiors. The assessments and feedback provided throughout the course strengthen the ability of managers to negotiate, exert influence, gain cooperation from others, and create a work environment that values diversity.
Key Results
Acquire new approaches to managing that can lead to greater organizational efficiency
Learn approaches to increasing accountability within the organization
Prepare to initiate and manage innovation in a team-based environment
Foster originality, flexibility, and reasonable risk taking while remaining accountable for results
Learn to manage technology to enhance organizational performance
Develop concepts and skills for partnering and building more effective teams
Enhance influence and negotiation skills
Examine core value issues and their impact on the Federal manager
Explore ways to promote a culture that supports entrepreneurship and innovation
Who Should AttendMid-level managers typically with two or more years of management experience.
Schedule and Cost
Start/Stop times for EMDC: Arrival - Monday, program starts at 1 p.m.Ends - Thursday at 5 p.m., Friday is a Travel Day
Start/Stop times for WMDC: Arrival - Monday, program starts 1:30 p.m.Ends - Thursday at 5 p.m., Friday is a Travel Day, check out by noon(If Monday Holiday - Arrival - Tuesday, program starts at 1:30 p.m.)
Course includes meals, lodging, tuition and course materials
Dates
Location
Cost
Jun 5 - Jun 16, 06
WMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
SPACE LIMITED: Call for availability: 1-304-870-8008
Jul 10 - Jul 21, 06
WMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Jul 24 - Aug 4, 06
EMDC
$4,300.00
FULL
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Aug 7 - Aug 18, 06
EMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Sep 5 - Sep 15, 06
EMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
SPACE LIMITED: Call for availability: 1-304-870-8008
Sep 18 - Sep 29, 06
WMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Oct 10 - Oct 20, 06
WMDC
$4,750.00
Apply
Includes individual coaching
Nov 27 - Dec 8, 06
WMDC
$4,750.00
Apply
Includes individual coaching
Leading Organizations
Unleashing the Full Potential of Organizational Performance
In this seminar, experienced mid-level managers step into the world of dynamic thinking, creativity, and innovative, results-producing performance. The seminar consists of two exciting weeks of sessions that expose managers to new approaches and processes. Participants are shown ways to achieve superior levels of organizational excellence and to deal with the day-to-day challenges of their workplace. Managers bring real problems to the seminar. These "live case studies" are used to develop the skills and knowledge needed to deal more effectively with the rapidly changing Federal environment.
Learning techniques include practical exercises, case studies, experiential activities with facilitated debriefings, and discussions and presentations with real-time feedback. There are also opportunities for the exchange of ideas with colleagues from other agencies. Assessment instruments that provide 360-degree feedback are used to develop information on how the participants are perceived by their customers, peers, employees, and superiors. The assessments and feedback provided throughout the course strengthen the ability of managers to negotiate, exert influence, gain cooperation from others, and create a work environment that values diversity.
Key Results
Acquire new approaches to managing that can lead to greater organizational efficiency
Learn approaches to increasing accountability within the organization
Prepare to initiate and manage innovation in a team-based environment
Foster originality, flexibility, and reasonable risk taking while remaining accountable for results
Learn to manage technology to enhance organizational performance
Develop concepts and skills for partnering and building more effective teams
Enhance influence and negotiation skills
Examine core value issues and their impact on the Federal manager
Explore ways to promote a culture that supports entrepreneurship and innovation
Who Should AttendMid-level managers typically with two or more years of management experience.
Schedule and Cost
Start/Stop times for EMDC: Arrival - Monday, program starts at 1 p.m.Ends - Thursday at 5 p.m., Friday is a Travel Day
Start/Stop times for WMDC: Arrival - Monday, program starts 1:30 p.m.Ends - Thursday at 5 p.m., Friday is a Travel Day, check out by noon(If Monday Holiday - Arrival - Tuesday, program starts at 1:30 p.m.)
Course includes meals, lodging, tuition and course materials
Dates
Location
Cost
Jun 5 - Jun 16, 06
WMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
SPACE LIMITED: Call for availability: 1-304-870-8008
Jul 10 - Jul 21, 06
WMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Jul 24 - Aug 4, 06
EMDC
$4,300.00
FULL
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Aug 7 - Aug 18, 06
EMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Sep 5 - Sep 15, 06
EMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
SPACE LIMITED: Call for availability: 1-304-870-8008
Sep 18 - Sep 29, 06
WMDC
$4,300.00
Apply
$4700 with Individual Coaching
Oct 10 - Oct 20, 06
WMDC
$4,750.00
Apply
Includes individual coaching
Nov 27 - Dec 8, 06
WMDC
$4,750.00
Apply
Includes individual coaching
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Do you really want to be a homicide detective?
Maybe I was different, but I joined up to drive around in the black and white car and fight crime. These days, it seems, my students all want to be homicide investigators; or, they are under the mistaken belief that crime scene technicians carry guns and investigate crimes. So, do you want to be a homicide investigator?
Take the first test – watch the National Medical Laboratories autopsy videos!
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/visibleproofs/galleries/media/autopsy/index.html
Sponsored by:
Criminal Justice Online
Take the first test – watch the National Medical Laboratories autopsy videos!
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/visibleproofs/galleries/media/autopsy/index.html
Sponsored by:
Criminal Justice Online
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