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Open Door of Communication: Information Sharing Has Never Been More Important in Law Enforcement and the Intelligence Community

NCJ Number
209511
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 32 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2005 Pages: 110,112,115
Author(s)
Kevin Desouza; Tobin Hensgen
Date Published
March 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article suggests a cooperative model of information sharing and action that is tailored to dynamic and flexible threat assessments and coordinated responses.
Abstract
The September 11th attacks occurred and caused massive loss of life because security and public safety agencies failed to share information, interpret it accurately and promptly, and coordinate and deploy resources toward maximum effectiveness. The model of operations that caused these failures promoted the independent activities of security and public safety agencies within parameters that involved little communication, information sharing, and coordination of action based on comprehensive intelligence analysis. In addressing these failures, this article proposes the implementation of the "cooperative model," which involves the development of a network that casts a broad net of intelligence collection in diverse areas by multiple agencies that regularly share what they know through a well-managed information center that can also coordinate action through a network prepared to act promptly wherever indicated. This model requires that individual agencies give up efforts to preserve structures and policies that obstruct a cooperative, dynamic, and flexible response to threats devised by persistent enemies who seek to exploit security weaknesses. Cooperation among agencies also requires the development of a common language that facilitates information sharing and tactical planning.