May 14, 2007
Whites, Blacks, Hispanics Stopped at Similar Rates
"Contacts between Police and the Public, 2005 " presents data over a 12-
month period on the nature and characteristics of face-to-face contacts
between residents of the U.S. and the police
http://ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/abstract/cpp05.htm
Complimentary Webcast Brings National Emergency Management
Network to You
http://www.icma.org/main/ns.asp?nsid=3149&mgtinsite=1
Aerials of Greensburg, Kansas Tornado Damage
http://www.kansas.com/static/slides/050507tornadoaerials/
$1 billion on horizon for crisis communications
The nation’s switchover to digital television in 2009 soon will yield
benefits to states still scurrying to enable firefighters, police and other
local and federal emergency officials to communicate during a crisis
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=205298
Homeland Security Department programs
The Bush administration warned the House that legislation to authorize
Homeland Security Department programs would face a veto if it gives the
agency's 170,000 employees greater collective bargaining rights
http://tinyurl.com/2t6w4j
U.S. Supreme Court Sides with Local Governments
In Scott v. Harris, the court ruled that a police officer’s attempt to terminate
a dangerous high-speed car chase that threatens the lives of innocent
bystanders does not violate the Fourth Amendment, even when it places
the fleeing motorist at risk of serious injury or death
http://tinyurl.com/ypzqwm
Oregon says no to $665M radio
Leaders scrap the plan as too costly but favor a new statewide system
http://tinyurl.com/2efzhq
Emergency notification systems get the call
Shootings raise interest in large-scale communications
http://www.gcn.com/print/26_09/43561-1.html
Port, transit security grants rise to $445 million
The Department of Homeland Security distributed $445 million in
infrastructure grants — a 10 percent increase from last year — to be used
to strengthen the ability of ports, transit and intercity bus systems to
protect against terrorist attacks
http://tinyurl.com/3666x7
The IACP Technology Clearinghouse
Serves as a one-stop shop for technology related information that
addresses all aspects of public safety from line personnel to senior
executives
http://www.iacptechnology.org/
The OneDOJ Initiative
Designed to allow state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners to
obtain information from all of the department’s investigative components
http://tinyurl.com/2q5t8m
Mutual Aid blog
Mutual Aid is a blog of news and views from FIRE CHIEF staff and
industry experts — a virtual conversation about the issues important to
you as a fire service leader
http://blog.firechief.com/mutual_aid/
Interagency Information Sharing: The National Information Exchange
Model
http://tinyurl.com/2p62xp
Group: Still easy for mentally ill to buy guns
Information on 90% of mental health records that could disqualify
prospective gun buyers has not been supplied to the FBI database used
to screen firearm purchases
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-05-13-guns-mentally-ill_N.
htm
Kansas tornado unleashes Guard supply furor
The tornado that tore apart Greensburg, Kan., dramatized what could
happen when a state’s National Guard equipment is thousands of miles
away in Iraq
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=206843
Virginia Tech tragedy likely to affect state policy
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=205694
House Passes Volunteer Job Protection Bill
The U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment to H.R. 1684,
the Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
2008, that would provide important employment protection for volunteer
emergency services personnel
http://firechief.com/news/volunteer_job_bill05102007/
Scanning the Future
With recent advances, Galveston County, Texas now offers to scan
children's irises, plug the iris images into a national database, and use
the information as an assured way of matching a child's id
http://www.govtech.net/magazine/sup_story.php?id=104911&issue=4:
2007
May 1, 2007
The Disability Dilemma
Police officers and firefighters injured in the line of duty receive generous
benefits. Can localities afford to keep paying for them?
http://www.governing.com/articles/5disable.htm
Traffic tickets going digital
Even the most maddening of life’s minor irritants – getting a traffic ticket –
is going digital as more and more states adapt computer technology to
enforce the rules of the road
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=204380
Grant Reminder—FIRE Act Grant Applications Due May 4
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=33468
"Combating Identity Theft: A Strategic Plan"
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/pdf/Pres_ID_Theft_Report.pdf
A Guide to Multi-Lingual Law Enforcement
Overcoming Language Barriers: Solutions for Law Enforcement, is
designed to provide law enforcement agencies with strategies to best
ensure language access to the limited English proficient populations in
their jurisdiction
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/ric/ResourceMain.aspx?RID=403
Privacy Laws Slow Efforts on Gun-Buyer Data
Momentum is building in Congress behind a measure that would push
states to report their mental health records to the federal database used
to conduct background checks on gun buyers
http://tinyurl.com/37z7g9
Supreme Court ruling
In an unusual decision revisiting a high-speed car chase near Atlanta, the
Supreme Court ruled that a police officer should not be responsible for
ramming a speeding car and leaving the driver a quadriplegic
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2007-04-30-scotus-police_N.
htm
April 23, 2007
Firefighting: Among top three jobs for satisfaction
A new report from the University of Chicago found firefighters to be some
of the most satisfied and happiest of American workers, directly behind
clergy
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=33374
Early Drinks Often Come from Parents, Study Says
One-third of 12-year-olds who said they had consumed alcohol within the
past year said they got the drink from their parents, according to a new
study from the University of Florida and University of Pennsylvania
http://tinyurl.com/ynsq2s
Senate Committee Seeks Funding Ideas for Next-gen 911
Public-safety and industry experts this week told the Senate Commerce
Committee that next-generation 911 technology will greatly enhance
emergency response and should be available soon, but leaders of the
committee questioned how to pay for such IP-based upgrades
http://tinyurl.com/ypunq3
Sprinkler Association Hosts Free Webcast
The International Residential Code Fire Sprinkler Coalition announced
plans to host a free educational Webcast on home fire sprinklers. The
program will broadcast on May 3, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. EDT
http://www.twlk.com/fire/IRC_home.html
Device aims to take speed out of the chase
On the lookout to reduce the danger of high-speed pursuits, law
enforcement officials in Los Angeles and Florida are field-testing an air-
propelled dart, consisting of a plastic ball with a GPS locator, that
attaches to a fleeing car
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/23711.html
First Responder Authentication Credentials
Alexandria, Virginia, has become the first city to use the First Responder
Authentication Credentials (FRAC) system to verify the qualifications of
emergency professionals in crisis situations
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/21081.html
Track and bust organized shoplifting gangs
The FBI and several national retail organizations have created a new
computer database to help track and bust organized shoplifting gangs
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/24131.html
April 11, 2007
Interoperability Gateways/Interconnects
Report describes how gateways work, explains key factors that can affect
performance, outlines the steps to deploying a gateway, and summarizes
the two primary aspects of gateway management
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/217105.pdf
Voice Encryption for Radios
Report explains how encryption helps ensure that voice transmissions
are secure and accessible only by authorized personnel
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/217103.pdf
Migrating from Cellular Digital Packet Data
Public safety agencies that use commercial cellular digital packet data
(CDPD) will soon be forced to migrate to another method of
communication
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/217104.pdf
A Networked Approach to Improvements in Emergency Management
http://tinyurl.com/2woj8v
Connect & Protect program
The Portland, Oregon Connect & Protect program makes it possible to
send targeted emergency alerts and share critical information in real time
among emergency management operations, first responders, critical
infrastructure providers, and other public safety stakeholders
http://tinyurl.com/3cgrrv
Cops give LED flashlights a try
A race is on to reinvent the police flashlight to take advantage of new
technologies, and the results could change what's tucked in belts worn by
cops across the country
http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/2007-04-09-flashlight-usat_N.
htm
April 4, 2007
First Responder Input Needed for Tech Ideas
The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology
Directorate has established a program, TechSolutions, to support the first
responder community by accelerating delivery of emerging technologies
http://tinyurl.com/34dp34
As land-line customers go wireless, 911 loses funding
Some 911 systems are facing budget crunches as more Americans
unplug land lines and switch to cellphones, shrinking the revenue from
phone surcharges that helps fund 911
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-04-02-911-loses-funding_N.
htm
Pennsylvania emergency radio system slow to connect
A statewide emergency radio system -- 10 years in the making and
millions of dollars over its original budget -- still won't be fully
implemented for two to three years, officials said
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/search/s_500578.html
Improving Emergency Communications
Lessons from Grading America's Cities
http://www.heritage.org/Research/HomelandDefense/bg2021.cfm
Efforts to pass new helmet laws intensify
Lawmakers and safety advocates in eight states are pushing for new
motorcycle helmet laws in a new trend sparked by soaring motorcyclist
fatalities and last year's crash of NFL star Ben Roethlisberger
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-04-03-motorcycle-helmet-
laws_N.htm
Mexican 'ice' replaces home-cooked meth in U.S.
The nation's war on drugs has at least one successful battle: State and
federal laws limiting access to cold medicines containing ephedrine and
pseudoephedrine have dramatically curtailed small "mom and pop" meth
labs
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=9193186
March 27, 2007
Predator protection laws come under fire
Many communities are passing or considering zoning ordinances that
restrict where convicted offenders may reside after being released from
prison
http://americancityandcounty.
com/mag/government_predator_protection_laws_predator/
City Police Spied Broadly Before G.O.P. Convention
For at least a year before the 2004 Republican National Convention,
teams of undercover New York City police officers traveled to cities across
the country, Canada and Europe to conduct covert observations of people
who planned to protest at the convention, according to police records and
interviews
http://tinyurl.com/2pzvl3
IG Criticizes Work On Wireless Network For Law Enforcement
The federal government has spent $195M on a long-promised wireless
radio network for the nation's law enforcement agencies that is at "high
risk of failure," the Justice Department's inspector general reported
http://tinyurl.com/2domsb
Indiana bill would expand police wiretap powers
Technologies such as cell phones and e-mail have made existing law
obsolete, officials say
http://tinyurl.com/ypgxm4
FBI chief: Don't change Patriot Act
FBI Director tried to persuade skeptical senators that the FBI can properly
use its terrorism-era authority to gather telephone, e-mail and financial
records of Americans and foreigners while pursuing terrorists
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/03/27/patriot.act.ap/index.html
Common Fireground Noise May Cause Unintelligibility of Digital Radio
Transmissions
The IAFC is alerting its members to a potential issue and soliciting their
input to a solution
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=33118
Chemical industry plots to kill disputed security provision
Controversial language would give states and localities the power to
enforce chemical security laws that are stronger than federal rules
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=36461&dcn=todaysnews
March 14, 2007
FCC public safety network plan found wanting
The Federal Communication Commission’s recent proposal to create a
nationwide broadband public safety network falls short because it does
not allocate enough radio spectrum to the new network, according to a
national public safety organization
http://www.washingtontechnology.com/online/1_1/30193-1.html
Ohio ends 'plain sight' handgun provision
Municipalities can't toughen restrictions
http://tinyurl.com/2foc2y
Washington D.C.'s Ban On Handguns In Homes Is Thrown Out
City officials said they will appeal a federal appeals court panel ruling that
the city's ban on keeping handguns in homes, enacted more than three
decades ago, is unconstitutional
http://tinyurl.com/2fg599
Many Washington D.C. Red-Light Cameras Broken
About half of the 50 red-light enforcement cameras in the District have
been out of service in recent months, giving a pass to drivers and
potentially depriving the city of millions of dollars in fines, according to a
firm that has taken over the system
http://tinyurl.com/yo3qld
The Future of Homeland Security
An Interview with Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff
http://tinyurl.com/2blozc
The Patrol Rifle: Considerations for Adoption and Use
http://www.policechiefmagazine.
org/magazine/issues/22007/pdfs/ThePatrolRifle.pdf
States tackle texting behind the wheel
Legislators in three states are targeting text messaging to keep drivers’
thumbs on the wheel and off the tiny keypads of their cell phones or
wireless devices in the latest crackdown on distracted driving
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=188546
Terrorists find fertile environment in cyberspace
Finding proof that terrorists plan to launch cyberattacks against the U.S. is
difficult, but the accessibility and vulnerability of the Internet to attack
makes it a growing threat
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/43263-1.html
March 7, 2007
Report Finds States Leading the Charge for Improved Public Safety
Communications
The First Response Coalition released a new report highlighting
numerous states that have leapfrogged national interoperability efforts by
employing unique funding structures, maximizing available spectrum,
and connecting stakeholders through effective governance systems
http://www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=104295
38 States in Rebellion Against Real ID
Some analysts say that the Real ID Act could help identity thieves
http://tinyurl.com/2lfht4
FEMA Taking Hit on Sale of Surplus Trailers
The Federal Emergency Management Agency hurriedly bought 145,000
trailers and mobile homes just before and after Hurricane Katrina hit,
spending $2.7 billion largely through no-bid contracts. Now, it is selling
off as many as 41,000 of the homes, netting about 40 cents on each
dollar it spent
http://tinyurl.com/2vfkf5
Senate Continues Debate on 9/11 Commission Bill
S. 4 would enact recommendations of the Sept. 11 commission and
authorize billions in homeland security spending. A companion bill, H.R.
1, was adopted by the House Homeland Security Committee but has not
come before the full House
http://tinyurl.com/2avr5d
DHS Tests First Responder Credential Capabilities
The Department of Homeland Security Office of National Capital Region
Coordination and the Department of Defense Pentagon Force Protection
Agency joined public and private sector participants last month in a
demonstration to validate the functionality of the First Responder
Authentication Credential
http://firechief.com/news/dhs_credentialing030707/
Social Networking Sites
Connecticut lawmakers unveiled legislation that would require social-
networking sites to verify users' ages and obtain parental consent before
minors can post profiles.
http://www.pantagraph.
com/articles/2007/03/08/news/doc45ef23c443a23225082397.txt
Experimental bird flu vaccine could be doubly promising
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-03-05-birdflu-vaccine_N.htm
February 28, 2007
Law Enforcement Tech Guide for Creating Performance Measures
That Work
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/mime/open.pdf?Item=1968
Law Enforcement Tech Guide for Information Technology Security
Provides strategies, best practices, recommendations, and ideas for
developing effective security policies
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/mime/open.pdf?Item=1969
Diversity Series: Religions, Cultures and Communities
Explores some of the many religions and cultures with which law
enforcement officials come into contact
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/pubs/diversity.html
McCain Backs Public Safety Network Plan
Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., plans to introduce legislation this week that
would create a nationwide communications network for police officers,
firefighters and other emergency first responders
http://njtelecomupdate.com/lenya/telco/live/tb-TVTI1172498530094.html
Stevens Wary Of Wireless Safety Network
The top Republican on the Senate Commerce Committee is harshly
criticizing a proposal by Cyren Call Communications to build and oversee
a nationwide, high-speed wireless Internet network for public safety
http://njtelecomupdate.com/lenya/telco/live/tb-LWRX1171391938708.html
Improving Disaster Management: The Role of IT in Mitigation,
Preparedness, Response, and Recovery
Information technology has unrealized potential to improve how
communities and the nation handle natural disasters and terrorism
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=7254
Webcast: The Next Generation of Homeland Security: Networked
People and Processes
The web cast is scheduled for March 1st
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/xchat.html
Restorative Justice
The Vermont Department of Correction's pioneering reparative probation
program, steers criminals convicted of minor and nonviolent offenses
away from jail to community boards that craft creative sentences
http://www.doc.state.vt.us/justice/restorative-justice/
New Profiling Program Raises Privacy Concerns
The Department of Homeland Security is testing a data-mining program
that would attempt to spot terrorists by combing vast amounts of
information about average Americans, such as flight and hotel
reservations
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/02/27/AR2007022701542.html
New Web site promotes rural safety
Updated information on transportation safety issues in each state
http://www.ruralsafety.umn.edu/
Help Set COPS' 2007 Agenda
Answer a 10-question survey and help set COPS' goals for 2007
http://tinyurl.com/377a85
Bird Flu Vaccine
Federal health advisers recommended that the government approve the
first bird flu vaccine as a stopgap measure, despite evidence it wouldn't
protect most people
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-02-27-avian-flu-vaccine_x.htm
February 21, 2007
Drug Free Communities Support Program
Applications for DFC grants are due April 17. Priority is given to coalitions
serving communities where 20 percent or more children are living below
the poverty line
http://www.samhsa.gov/Grants/2007/sp_07_001.aspx
National Homeland Security Consortium Identifies 17 Priorities for
Action
http://tinyurl.com/yrv9em
Homeland Security Online Courses
The Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and
Security is now offering non-credit versions of its Master's degree
courses online
http://www.chds.us/?special/info&pgm=Noncredit
Former College President Calls for Lowering Drinking Age
The age-21 drinking law is "bad social policy and terrible law," forcing
college students to take their alcohol use underground and promoting
dishonesty among college officials about drinking culture on campus
http://tinyurl.com/2bkewp
Study Finds Rich Kids More Likely to Use Drugs Than Poor
Disposable income, disconnected families, and pressure to succeed all
contribute to drug use among upscale youth, adding that parents in these
communities add to the problem by denying that it occurs
http://tinyurl.com/2xf2lx
Access and share information on new International Association of Fire
Chiefs state and provincial legislation forum
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32904
Bunker Gear Survey Needs Your Measurements
The National Fallen Fire Fighters Foundation and the Fire Apparatus
Manufacturers’ Association are trying to obtain better information about
the size, shape, weight and reach of firefighters wearing bunker gear
http://firechief.com/news/bunker_survey021507/
Former Homeland Security Chief Slams Interoperability Progress
Radio spectrum currently earmarked for sale to commercial
communications companies should be set aside for police, fire and
emergency responders
http://www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=103975
February 13, 2007
Florida proposes multistate disaster fund
Frustrated by inaction in Washington, Florida officials are asking other
states to join them in setting up an insurance catastrophe fund to bail out
regions hit by cataclysmic disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes,
flooding and even terrorism
http://tinyurl.com/ywnct7
Study predicts rise in inmate populations
The number of inmates in U.S. prisons likely will rise nearly 13% during
the next five years, costing states up to $27.5 billion in new operating and
construction expenses
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-02-13-prisons_x.htm
Senators unveil homeland security grant plan at odds with House
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=36127&dcn=todaysnews
February 6, 2007
Free Resources for Smaller Police Agencies
Free resources for smaller police departments can be force multipliers
http://tinyurl.com/3cwsm7
More towns putting deer in the cross hairs
The nation's swelling deer population is prompting a growing number of
towns and cities to permit hunting within their borders, much of it by bow
and arrow
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-02-06-deerhunt_x.htm
Devices could disable terror bombs
National security arm to test 'Render Safe' for local agency use
http://tinyurl.com/2sroz5
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to realign BioSense to
focus on most populous cities
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention plans to narrow the
focus of its key disease surveillance system, BioSense, and proposes to
reduce 2008 funding for state and local programs and projects to
respond to pandemic flu outbreaks by $125M, compared with 2007 levels
http://www.fcw.com/article97564-02-05-07-Web&newsletter=yes
Adults Liable for Serving Alcohol to Youths, South Carolina Supreme
Court Says
The South Carolina Supreme Court has ruled that adults who
intentionally serve alcohol to underage youth can be sued for damages
http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/news/local/16629413.htm
How the proposed federal budget will affect programs that are relevant
to the fire service
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32808
The Less Lethal Technology Working Group
Assists local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in developing,
implementing and enhancing policies governing the use of less lethal
technologies
http://www.less-lethal.org/web/home.aspx
Flaws found in firefighters' last line of defense
U.S. waited 5 years to heed expert's warning on ‘man down’ alarms
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16890732/
Personal alarms used at fire scenes might be failing
U.S. Senator asks the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to
investigate “deeply troubling” information indicating that the federal unit
charged with probing firefighter deaths ignored a warning in 2000 that
personal alarms used at fire scenes might be failing
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16994965/
Flu Pandemic
In the first wave of a severe flu pandemic, dramatic strategies to keep
people away from each other, including closing schools and day care
centers for up to three months at a time, might be needed to slow the
spread of illness and limit the number of deaths, federal health officials
said
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-02-01-flu_x.htm
Bird Flu
The world should expect more bird flu outbreaks in the coming winter
months, the U.N. official coordinating the global fight against the virus
warned Sunday after Britain recorded its first case of the H5N1 strain on a
commercial farm
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-02-04-UN-bird-flu_x.htm
January 29, 2007
An urgent plea to code officials throughout the U.S.
Proposed one- and two-family home sprinkler requirements in the
International Residential Code
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32751
State/Provincial Legislative Discussion Forums
The International Association of Fire Chiefs launches a new forum for
sharing information about state and provincial legislation
http://www.iafc.org/statelegislativeforum
Democrat seeks more money for DHS grants to colleges, universities
Lawmakers should give the Homeland Security Department more money
to distribute to colleges and universities in grants to develop homeland
security "centers of excellence," the chairman of the House Homeland
Security Committee said
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=35979&dcn=todaysnews
House member puts rail security at top of his panel's agenda
Legislation his committee will produce would establish federal standards
and oversight for both passenger rail mass transit systems and freight
rail systems, especially those that transport hazardous materials
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=35981&dcn=todaysnews
"Vital Partners: Mayors and Police Chiefs Working Together for
America's Children and Youth"
Includes examples of effective partnerships from 17 cities
http://www.nlc.org/content/Files/IYEF_COPS_report.pdf
Emergency Management in County Government: A National Study
Examines key aspects of county emergency management, including its
organizational structure, budgets and funding, personnel and training,
use of technology, and ways counties collaborate with other government
entities and nongovernmental organizations
http://tinyurl.com/2bzsd8
To state workers: get fit or lose your job?
Florida's corrections secretary has proposed mandatory fitness levels, to
the dismay of a prison officers' union
http://tinyurl.com/ynntgk
January 22, 2007
PandemicFlu.gov
One-stop access to U.S. Government avian and pandemic flu information.
Managed by the Department of Health and Human Services
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/
Modeling Community Containment for Pandemic Influenza: A Letter
Report
Report explores the quality of existing models about a potential influenza
pandemic and their utility for predicting the effects of various community
containment policies on disease mitigation
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=7161
Transportation Security Administration to track rail shipments with
toxic cargo
The government for the first time will monitor rail shipments of potentially
deadly cargo passing through cities to make sure cars vulnerable to
attack don't sit unguarded for too long
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2007-01-21-rail-cargo_x.htm
Ohio State Highway Patrol: Can Individual Troopers Make a Difference?
A move was made to shift away from the past cookiecutter approach to
highway safety and the way field commands are managed. Local
commanders have begun to focus on individual specifics of their
jurisdiction
http://tinyurl.com/282o84
January 16, 2007
Electronic anti-meth tracking requested in Iowa
Excessive pseudoephedrine sales would trigger an alert
http://tinyurl.com/2qqdpk
Report: States, localities to invest more in comms
State and local governments will boost their technology investment by 40
percent in the next five years as they struggle to overcome
communications problems that stymie coordinated emergency response
efforts
http://www.fcw.com/article97309-01-10-07-Web&newsletter=yes
Cutbacks Impede Climate Studies
The government's ability to understand and predict hurricanes, drought
and climate changes of all kinds is in danger because of deep cuts
facing many Earth satellite programs and major delays in launching
some of its most important new instruments
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/01/15/AR2007011501049.html
January 9, 2007
High-tech program predicts killings
Philadelphia will take advantage of new statistics software to predict
which recent probationers are most likely to reoffend
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16650.html
Statewide computer system to aid police in monitoring gangs
Police departments across Maryland will soon be able to use the Internet
to share information about gangs through a new secure program called
GangNet, federal prosecutors announced
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16545.html
A first in the nation panel offers fresh avenue for appeal
More than 75 convicted felons in prisons across North Carolina have
submitted claims of innocence to the state's newly created Innocence
Inquiry Commission in what they hope will lead to their exoneration and
freedom
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16598.html
Overview: FY 2007 Homeland Security Grant Program
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/grants-2007-program-overview-
010507.pdf
Talk to me
What is the point of upgrading communication technology if public
officials cannot settle who is in charge and what procedures to follow?
http://americancityandcounty.com/mag/government_talk_terrorists/
School Guidance During an Influenza Pandemic
http://www.idph.state.il.us/pandemic_flu/schoolguide.htm
Child identity theft
Now that infants and toddlers have Social Security numbers, identity
thieves can run wild for years before victims grow up enough to take
noticehttp://tinyurl.com/y9r4bx
DHS to Boost 6 Cities' Share of Anti-Terror Funds
Chastened by complaints about poor federal cooperation and by
controversy over its slashing of aid to New York and Washington last year,
the Department of Homeland Security will reserve about $100 million of
the $747 million it will dole out to U.S. cities this year to pay for police
counterterrorism operations in six metropolitan areas
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/01/05/AR2007010501782.html
Acoustic gunshot-detection system
Boston city councilors, law enforcement officials, and community leaders
are pressing City Hall to come up with $1.5 million to buy a promising
acoustic gunshot-detection system
http://tinyurl.com/y4sxvk
House Bill Backs Additional Reforms From 9/11 Report
House Democrats announced legislation aimed at implementing many
of the remaining reforms suggested by the Sept. 11 commission,
including calls for more thorough cargo screening, better emergency
communications and more money for cities at the highest risk of terrorist
attack.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/01/08/AR2007010801623.html
9/11 bill at top of House 100-hour agenda
House Democrats kick off their self-imposed 100-hour deadline to pass
priority legislation on Tuesday, beginning with a national security bill.
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/09/house.agenda/index.html
Dem bill seeks to improve info sharing at DHS
As part of legislation submitted to implement the 9/11 Commission
recommendations, the new Democratic majority in Congress has a plan
to improve information sharing within the Homeland Security Department
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42908-1.html
Judges Hope for Sentencing Review in Congress
Federal judges are among those hoping that the new Democratic
Congress will change current mandatory-minimum sentencing laws that
leave many jurists feeling hamstrung, especially in drug cases
http://tinyurl.com/y8ovwk
January 2, 2007
Taser sells small version for wider use
Taser International has unveiled a new model of its controversial stun
gun designed for widespread use by regular folks. It's more affordable
and small enough to be stashed in a purse or backpack
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-01-08-little-taser_x.htm
Everett, Washington Police Department: Crime-Free Rental Housing
The Everett Police Department used information, technology, and
education to address crime in rental properties
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1071&issue_id=122006
Strategic Planning as a Management Philosophy
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1066&issue_id=122006
Researcher studies meth exposure on kids
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/health/1500ap_meth_research.html
1 In 3 Drivers Under 'The Limit' For Alcohol Still Test Positive For Drugs
One in three drivers suspected of driving while ‘over the limit,’ but
subsequently found to be below maximum permissible levels of alcohol,
nevertheless tested positive for a range of drugs, reveals research in
“Injury Prevention”
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=59001
Judge rules against traffic cameras
Every motorist who has received a citation from Davenport, Iowa’s red
light and speed cameras may get a refund after a court ruling that found
the machines violate Iowa motor vehicle laws
http://www.qctimes.
net/articles/2007/01/03/news/local/doc459ac944623a9554725656.txt
Report: Only 6 U.S. cities excel in crisis communications
http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/01/02/emergency.communications.ap/index.
html
December 26, 2006
The STOP (Sober Truth on Preventing) Underage Drinking Act
Called the most significant piece of underage-drinking prevention
legislation passed by Congress in years, has been signed into law by
President Bush
http://tinyurl.com/ylk3vo
Justice Department Database Stirs Privacy Fears
The Justice Department is building a massive database that allows state
and local police officers around the country to search millions of case
files from the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration and other federal law
enforcement agencies
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2006/12/25/AR2006122500483.html
FCC proposes public-safety wireless band
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission wants to set aside radio
frequencies for a nationwide public safety network to be built in
partnership with a private company
http://www.infoworld.com/article/06/12/20/HNpublicsafetywirelessband_1.
html
The year in health was a scary one
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-12-25-year-in-health_x.htm
Congress clamps down on selling of phone records
http://tinyurl.com/ueggo
Katrina fraud costs could top $2 billion
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15587326/
December 21, 2006
Challenges to city cameras going to court
The challenges to Davenport, Iowa’s speed and light cameras are hitting
Scott County District Court with arguments in one case being given before
a district judge
http://www.qctimes.
net/articles/2006/12/16/news/local/doc4583939355fad303625855.txt
Pot called top cash crop in America
Study: Market value exceeds $35 billion
http://tinyurl.com/yeun4s
Tiered Advanced Life Support System for Emergency Medical Services
http://www.nationalcitynetwork.org/view_city_practices.html?id=426286
Teen drug use drops, with exceptions
Drug use among teens continued its decade-long drop, but some drugs,
including cough syrup, prescription painkillers and inhalants, remain
popular, a new national survey says
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-12-21-teens-drugs_x.htm
Fruity 'alcopops' snaring teenaged drinkers
That bottle your teen has been drinking from may look like an energy
drink, but could be loaded with more alcohol than beer
http://www.pantagraph.
com/articles/2006/12/22/news/doc458b19e11f0ad084597829.txt
1 traveler tied to more than half '05 U.S. measles cases
The biggest U.S. measles outbreak in a decade -- 34 people stricken in
Indiana and Illinois last year -- was traced back to a 17-year-old girl who
had traveled to Romania without first getting vaccinated
http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/12/21/measles.traveler.ap/index.html
Study reveals flu toll
A flu virus as deadly as the one that caused the 1918 Spanish flu could
kill as many as 81 million worldwide if it struck today, a new study
estimates
http://tinyurl.com/y3q7fg
Webcast
Pandemic Influenza Planning: Local Government Assistance; January 25,
2007
http://tinyurl.com/ymjlra
Security of the nation's rail systems
The Department of Homeland Security has issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking to vastly strengthen the security of the nation's rail systems in
the highest threat urban areas
http://firechief.com/news/High-risk_hazmat12212006/
Retention and Recruitment for the Volunteer Emergency Services
Challenges and Solutions
http://www.nvfc.org/pdf/2006-retention-recruitment-guide.pdf
December 11, 2006
'Fish bowl' helps addicts clean up
Local officials say it works because it gives recovering drug addicts
something to fight for. It rewards them with the hope that good things do
come in small packages
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16374.html
Database to give police new tool against domestic abuse
Ohio will soon implement a pilot program to help police enforce civil-
protection orders designed to stop violent and harassing behavior
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16088.html
Drug Courts Reexamined
A panel of drug treatment and court experts discussed research on adult
drug court outcomes and costs, and the factors that affect program
implementation and impact. View the archived multimedia
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/xchat.html
Ready or Not? Protecting the Public's Health from Disease, Disasters,
and Bioterrorism, 2006
"Ready or Not? Protecting the Public's Health from Disease, Disasters,
and Bioterrorism," found that five years after the September 11th and
anthrax tragedies, emergency health preparedness is still inadequate in
America
http://healthyamericans.org/reports/bioterror06/
Nationwide interoperability for first responders within reach
More than two-thirds of emergency response agencies in the United
States use some degree of interoperable communications, allowing
them to speak directly with other agencies
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42778-1.html
A “Report Card” for Urban Areas’ Emergency Evacuation Capability
New Survey Ranks 37 Largest Urban Areas, Identifies Key Factors for
Reviewing Readiness Plans
http://www.highways.org/Press_Releases/release10-12-06.htm
Critical Connectors
During emergencies, citizens and even some disaster workers depend
on libraries for Internet connections to the world
http://www.governing.com/articles/12talk.htm
December 5, 2006
Click here for drug offenders in your area
Internet listings have popular appeal, but do they really protect the public?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15971396/
Bird flu virus 'still smoldering,' U.S. expert says
http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/12/06/bird.flu/index.html
Statewide radio interoperability carries hefty price tag
State emergency managers estimate it will cost $7 billion to achieve
statewide interoperable communications for first responders, according
to a new survey by the National Emergency Management Association
http://www.washingtontechnology.com/news/1_1/daily_news/29800-1.
html
Pioneering law enforcement agencies use data sharing and analysis
tools to step up anti-terrorism contributions
Thinking of local police as first responders recognizes only one of the
important contributions they can make to homeland security
http://www.fcw.com/article96760-11-13-06-Print&slnewsletter=yes
The Missing Link in Homeland Security
Private security organizations are responsible for protecting more than
many suspect; by some estimates, 85 percent of the critical U.S.
infrastructure is protected by private security
http://tinyurl.com/yadq8u
The Personal Competency Model - When Round Pegs Don’t Fit
As agencies struggle to maintain service levels and meet rising
expectations, it becomes necessary to get the most out of employees in
new ways.
http://tinyurl.com/yekcva
California Using Fiction to Fight Methamphetamine
http://www.jointogether.org/news/headlines/inthenews/2006/california-
using-fiction-to.html
Caution Urged with Composite Floors
There have been several cases of firefighters falling through floors made
of composite structural components and an even greater number of near-
miss situations. This type of construction is being investigated as a
contributing factor in a line-of-duty death
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32101
November 29, 2006
All 50 states should aim to have interoperable systems for public
safety by the end of 2008
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42675-1.html
Several states report mosquito-borne virus
Chikungunya, a severe and sometimes deadly infectious disease that
has devastated the islands of the Indian Ocean, has arrived in the United
States
http://tinyurl.com/yxtfbg
November 14, 2006
Volunteer firefighters scarce
A shortage of volunteer firefighters in Colorado is threatening public
safety in some areas by slowing down response times, officials say.
Nearly 60 percent of the state's fire departments are all-volunteer, and
many of them have trouble finding firefighters because of demographic
trends
http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_4694156
Spy agencies now share the Wikipedia way
It is hoped that the new software will make collaboration easier
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/15643.html
Florida introduces new technology to help track offenders
Rapid ID employs hand-held devices, allowing officers to quickly identify
individuals by scanning in their fingerprints to retrieve their criminal file
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/15614.html
The Nation's first-responders can now take two new Incident
Command
System review courses online through the National Emergency Training
Center Virtual Campus
Q-462 - ICS 100, Introduction to ICS for Operational First Responders
Q-463 - ICS 200, Basic ICS for Operational First Responders
http://training.fema.gov/VCNew/firstVC.asp
CHRIS+ Hazardous Materials CD-ROM
The United States Coast Guard has published a free resource CD-ROM
that brings comprehensive chemical information to the fingertips of fire
and safety service personnel responding to a hazardous materials
incident
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/786/136216/
Seven Signs of Terrorism Training Video
http://tinyurl.com/tdtgh
Emergency Management and Homeland Security: An Overview
http://www.icma.org/main/ld.asp?ldid=20123&hsid=10&tpid=23
A Networked Approach to Improvements in Emergency Management
http://www.icma.org/main/ld.asp?ldid=20175&hsid=10&tpid=23
Unconstitutional Policing: The Ethical Challenges in Dealing with Noble
Cause Corruption
When uncovered as a pattern or practice, the police crimes defined as
noble cause corruption can result in constitutional rights litigation that can
financially cripple agencies
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1025&issue_id=102006
Employee Disciplinary Matrix: A Search for Fairness in the Disciplinary
Process
Unfortunately, perceived unfairness is an all too common condition in law
enforcement agencies
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1024&issue_id=102006
Local officials tap new location-aware and multichannel emergency
alert systems to better reach a more mobile citizenry
http://www.fcw.com/article96777-11-13-06-Print
November 7, 2006
Application Procedures Announced for the 2007 Harvard Fire Executive
Fellowship Program
http://tinyurl.com/yaso6b
New Network To Solve Emergency Logistics Nightmares
The National Emergency Management Network is an economically
sustainable service network that enhances the ability of local
governments to plan for, and respond to, both local incidents and major
disasters
http://www.icma.org/main/ns.asp?nsid=2696&mgtinsite=1
Police Pursuit and High-Speed Driving Lawsuits
http://tinyurl.com/y3nyvl
Phoenix, Arizona to create new security job
Phoenix is ratcheting up homeland security efforts by transforming the
traditional police chief post into a higher-profile job that consolidates
security oversight of aviation, transit, water and emergency operations
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/1107chief1107.html
International Association of Fire Chiefs Board of Directors Urges
Member Support of New Broadband Spectrum Proposal
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=31871
November 1, 2006
Slamming the brakes on highway fatalities
To reduce the number of car collisions, public officials and automakers
in the United States, Europe, and Japan are investing in advanced
technologies such as on-board intelligence and smart highways
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/15147.html
Preparing for a Local Crisis within a Global Pandemic
Program focuses on the actions and planning a community should be
taking now to deal with local effects of a global influenza pandemic
http://tinyurl.com/ygx3gc
County emergency management agencies on rise post Sept. 11
In the years since September 11, better than 75 percent of the nation’s
counties have established an emergency management agency that either
reports directly to the top officials in a county or is a separate unit within a
public safety division or department
http://tinyurl.com/ybly95
Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program
The U.S. Department of Justice has announced the designation of nearly
$29M in awards to over 4,500 law enforcement agencies across the
nation for the purchase of bulletproof vests through the Bulletproof Vest
Partnership Program
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bvpbasi/docs/FY06_Awards_Reports.pdf
Crime Prevention Presentations Available
The National Crime Prevention Council, in partnership with BJA, has
released the second set of crime prevention PowerPoint presentations.
These presentations are designed to be used by local law enforcement
officers and other crime prevention practitioners to provide information to
communities on crime issues and prevention strategies
http://www.ncpc.org/training/Powerpoint_Presentations.php
Service Learning Manual for Youth Courts Online
http://www.crfc.org/youthcourts.html
Identity Crime Web Site Launched
www.IDSafety.org was designed to help both consumers and law
enforcement officials prevent and report identity crime, investigate
perpetrators, and respond effectively to victims
http://www.idsafety.org/
Webcast Reexamines Drug Courts
Drug Courts Reexamined, a Webcast sponsored by Government
Innovators Network and NIJ, will be held November 13, 2006, from 2-4 p.
m. ET
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/spotlight.html?id=159&preview=1
October 24, 2006
Resources for Fire and Emergency Services: School Violence
https://www.llis.dhs.gov/
Gunshot Sensors Are Giving D.C. Police Jump on Suspects
System Can Determine Location of Crime
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2006/10/21/AR2006102100826.html
Study revives debate over LAPD's 3-day workweek
Response times are found to be longer and overtime costs are up, but
the schedule is hugely popular with rank-and-file officers.
http://tinyurl.com/wfd9r
USFA and the IAFC Develop Model Policy and Procedures Guide for
Emergency Vehicle Safety
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/research/safety/vehicle.shtm
Trucker database may be pattern for new Real ID Act pointer system
An informal but influential working group of state and federal driver’s
license officials has recommended that states adopt a database now
used to keep track of hazardous-material truckers as the pattern for a
pointer system for information sharing required by the Real ID Act
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42378-1.html
Media Violence Reports Rarely Mention Alcohol
A new study found that although alcohol plays a role in 31 percent of
homicides, and many assaults, just 2.6 percent of TV reports, 7.3 percent
of newspaper reports, and 5.6 percent of magazine reports mentioned
the link between the violent crimes covered and alcohol use
http://www.jointogether.org/news/research/summaries/2006/media-
violence-reports-rarely.html
Near-Miss Reporting Reaches Milestone: 1,000 Reports Submitted
The National Fire Fighter Near-Miss Reporting System (www.
firefighternearmiss.com) reached a milestone with the submission of the
1000th report submitted to the system
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=31816
Consumer Reports tests two devices that monitor teen driving habits,
focusing on pros, cons and privacy issues
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show 5,896
people between 16 and 20 years of age died from motor vehicle crashes
in 2004
http://autos.msn.com/advice/CRArt.aspx?contentid=4023927
October 17, 2006
Hiring Top Cops: DOJ Sponsors FREE Webcast
Get best practices and expert advice for hiring and retaining the best
qualified law enforcement professionals, at a FREE live satellite
broadcast sponsored by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of
Community Oriented Policing Services on October 24, 2006, 2:00 p.m. - 3:
30 p.m. EDT
http://www.dojconnect.com/
Teens Who Frequently Have Family Dinners Less Likely to Drink,
Smoke, or Use Drugs
http://www.cesar.umd.edu/cesar/cesarfax/vol15/15-39.pdf
Some seeing red over red-light tickets
Cameras that snap photos of motorists running red lights have been
upheld as constitutional by courts in five states and Washington, D.C., but
some car owners refuse to concede defeat and are continuing to
challenge them.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-10-17-redlights_x.htm
Fire Chief Announces 2006 Station Style Awards
Results of FIRE CHIEF’s sixth annual Station Style Design Awards
program, which recognizes outstanding architecture and design within
fire departments nationwide, are now public
http://firechief.com/news/station_style_winners10102006/
The National Emergency Management Network
The Public Entity Risk Institute (PERI) and the International City/County
Management Association (ICMA) are establishing a "National Emergency
Management Network" (NEMN) to help local governments forge stronger
pre-disaster relationships and take mutual aid to a new level
http://tinyurl.com/yfhpt9
October 12, 2006
Buyer beware of toxic meth-lab homes
Health officials in a handful of states are warning home-buyers and
renters to check an online database of busted "meth houses" to make
sure they don't move into a contaminated former drug lab
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=147134
States must help save pets
States will be required to help evacuate pets during a natural disaster
such as a hurricane or earthquake or risk losing federal money under a
bill signed by President Bush
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?
file=/c/a/2006/10/10/MNGQPLLPNI1.DTL
October 3, 2006
Congress wants Office of Emergency Communications office at
Department of Homeland Security
Congress is calling for the Homeland Security Department to establish
an Office of Emergency Communications to tackle the kind of long-
standing problems that hindered first responders on Sept. 11, 2001, and
again in the wake of Hurricane Katrina
http://www.fcw.com/article96279-09-29-06-Web&newsletter=yes
National Governors Association Launches State Pandemic
Preparedness Project
The Pandemic Preparedness Project will address the critical issues of
public health preparedness, continuity of government planning,
maintenance of essential services and the development of community-
based and cross-border response strategies
http://www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=101360
Police, firefighters challenge residency rules
'Recruitment and retention nightmare'
http://tinyurl.com/gqd7y
CompStat: Managing Performance on the Pathway to Leadership
Since the CompStat process was introduced by the New York City Police
Department in 1994, it has been widely adopted and is partly responsible
for contributing to significant improvements
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=998&issue_id=92006
"A Networked Approach to Improvements in Emergency Management"
Urges changes at the national level and fleshes out a new model for
emergency management preparedness and response
http://tinyurl.com/pevz7
September 27, 2006
Guess Who’s Coming to the ER?
It turns out that lower-income people are not the ones clogging up
emergency rooms
http://www.governing.com/articles/9health.htm
Policewomen: Their First Century and the New Era
Women in policing now make up approximately 13-14 percent of all
employees, and the women who pioneered this entry into a male-
dominated profession faced many obstacles, but also experienced many
rewards
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1000&issue_id=92006
September 25, 2006
DHS Grants $191 Million to Defend Cities
The Department of Homeland Security awarded $191M in grants
yesterday to defend ports, transit systems and bus lines from terrorists,
increasing funding for major urban areas in the Northeast and mid-
Atlantic states whose funds were slashed earlier this year in a
controversial decision
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2006/09/25/AR2006092501347.html
Court upholds ruling against traffic cameras
The state appeals court slammed the brakes on Minneapolis' use of
traffic cameras to ticket people for running red lights. But the battle isn't
over yet
http://www.startribune.com/462/story/695167.html
Device helps police spot stolen cars
Mobile license-plate-recognition systems can scan a parking lot full of
cars in minutes and read license plates of cars driving by at high speed
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0921evgadge0920.html
Day reporting eases jail overcrowding
Across the nation, the inmate population in county jails is growing to
problematic levels. As a result, many counties are creating alternatives to
incarceration, such as day reporting centers
http://americancityandcounty.com/mag/government_day_reporting_eases/
4 Questions for Return on Investment: Choosing the Right Police
Training
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=996&issue_id=92006
Long Beach, California: Less-lethal Weaponry Case Study
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=999&issue_id=92006
Free Software
Incident Commander is a PC-based software simulation that models
real-world situations within a community, allowing for training at the
management level to a critical incident
http://www.incidentcommander.net/
September 13, 2006
Even Rural Counties Should be Prepared for Terrorist Attacks
Terrorism isn’t just an urban threat, and counties must be prepared for
the possibility of attacks close to home - even in rural areas, according to
Dr. Boaz Ganor, an internationally recognized counterterrorism expert.
http://www.naco.org/CountyNewsTemplate.cfm?
template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=21107
Are Red-Light Cameras Fair to Drivers?
These modern-day robocops make ticketing easier and can be huge
moneymakers for local governments. But critics question their accuracy
and fret over privacy issues.
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.
com/Insurance/InsureYourCar/AreRedLightCamerasFairToDrivers.aspx?
page=1
September 6, 2006
Volunteer Aides to Motorists let Police Focus on Fighting Crime
Chesterfield County, Virginia's citizen volunteer Motorist Assistance Team
program allows the police to deploy their resources more strategically
http://www.naco.org/CountyNewsTemplate.cfm?
template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=20946
A New Model for Disaster Response
Historically, the U.S. has tried to manage disasters with a "command and
control" approach. What is needed now is a dynamic and network-
centered approach that has the flexibility to move resources and assets
where they need to be, when they need to be there
http://www.governingbynetwork.com/Management/ONeill_Aug16.html
Improving Pedestrian Safety at Unsignalized Crossings
A recent report from the Transportation Research Board (TRB) examines
selected engineering treatments to improve safety for pedestrians
crossing high-volume and high-speed roadways at unsignalized locations
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=6630
Whites, Blacks, Hispanics Stopped at Similar Rates
"Contacts between Police and the Public, 2005 " presents data over a 12-
month period on the nature and characteristics of face-to-face contacts
between residents of the U.S. and the police
http://ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/abstract/cpp05.htm
Complimentary Webcast Brings National Emergency Management
Network to You
http://www.icma.org/main/ns.asp?nsid=3149&mgtinsite=1
Aerials of Greensburg, Kansas Tornado Damage
http://www.kansas.com/static/slides/050507tornadoaerials/
$1 billion on horizon for crisis communications
The nation’s switchover to digital television in 2009 soon will yield
benefits to states still scurrying to enable firefighters, police and other
local and federal emergency officials to communicate during a crisis
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=205298
Homeland Security Department programs
The Bush administration warned the House that legislation to authorize
Homeland Security Department programs would face a veto if it gives the
agency's 170,000 employees greater collective bargaining rights
http://tinyurl.com/2t6w4j
U.S. Supreme Court Sides with Local Governments
In Scott v. Harris, the court ruled that a police officer’s attempt to terminate
a dangerous high-speed car chase that threatens the lives of innocent
bystanders does not violate the Fourth Amendment, even when it places
the fleeing motorist at risk of serious injury or death
http://tinyurl.com/ypzqwm
Oregon says no to $665M radio
Leaders scrap the plan as too costly but favor a new statewide system
http://tinyurl.com/2efzhq
Emergency notification systems get the call
Shootings raise interest in large-scale communications
http://www.gcn.com/print/26_09/43561-1.html
Port, transit security grants rise to $445 million
The Department of Homeland Security distributed $445 million in
infrastructure grants — a 10 percent increase from last year — to be used
to strengthen the ability of ports, transit and intercity bus systems to
protect against terrorist attacks
http://tinyurl.com/3666x7
The IACP Technology Clearinghouse
Serves as a one-stop shop for technology related information that
addresses all aspects of public safety from line personnel to senior
executives
http://www.iacptechnology.org/
The OneDOJ Initiative
Designed to allow state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners to
obtain information from all of the department’s investigative components
http://tinyurl.com/2q5t8m
Mutual Aid blog
Mutual Aid is a blog of news and views from FIRE CHIEF staff and
industry experts — a virtual conversation about the issues important to
you as a fire service leader
http://blog.firechief.com/mutual_aid/
Interagency Information Sharing: The National Information Exchange
Model
http://tinyurl.com/2p62xp
Group: Still easy for mentally ill to buy guns
Information on 90% of mental health records that could disqualify
prospective gun buyers has not been supplied to the FBI database used
to screen firearm purchases
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-05-13-guns-mentally-ill_N.
htm
Kansas tornado unleashes Guard supply furor
The tornado that tore apart Greensburg, Kan., dramatized what could
happen when a state’s National Guard equipment is thousands of miles
away in Iraq
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=206843
Virginia Tech tragedy likely to affect state policy
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=205694
House Passes Volunteer Job Protection Bill
The U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment to H.R. 1684,
the Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
2008, that would provide important employment protection for volunteer
emergency services personnel
http://firechief.com/news/volunteer_job_bill05102007/
Scanning the Future
With recent advances, Galveston County, Texas now offers to scan
children's irises, plug the iris images into a national database, and use
the information as an assured way of matching a child's id
http://www.govtech.net/magazine/sup_story.php?id=104911&issue=4:
2007
May 1, 2007
The Disability Dilemma
Police officers and firefighters injured in the line of duty receive generous
benefits. Can localities afford to keep paying for them?
http://www.governing.com/articles/5disable.htm
Traffic tickets going digital
Even the most maddening of life’s minor irritants – getting a traffic ticket –
is going digital as more and more states adapt computer technology to
enforce the rules of the road
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=204380
Grant Reminder—FIRE Act Grant Applications Due May 4
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=33468
"Combating Identity Theft: A Strategic Plan"
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/pdf/Pres_ID_Theft_Report.pdf
A Guide to Multi-Lingual Law Enforcement
Overcoming Language Barriers: Solutions for Law Enforcement, is
designed to provide law enforcement agencies with strategies to best
ensure language access to the limited English proficient populations in
their jurisdiction
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/ric/ResourceMain.aspx?RID=403
Privacy Laws Slow Efforts on Gun-Buyer Data
Momentum is building in Congress behind a measure that would push
states to report their mental health records to the federal database used
to conduct background checks on gun buyers
http://tinyurl.com/37z7g9
Supreme Court ruling
In an unusual decision revisiting a high-speed car chase near Atlanta, the
Supreme Court ruled that a police officer should not be responsible for
ramming a speeding car and leaving the driver a quadriplegic
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2007-04-30-scotus-police_N.
htm
April 23, 2007
Firefighting: Among top three jobs for satisfaction
A new report from the University of Chicago found firefighters to be some
of the most satisfied and happiest of American workers, directly behind
clergy
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=33374
Early Drinks Often Come from Parents, Study Says
One-third of 12-year-olds who said they had consumed alcohol within the
past year said they got the drink from their parents, according to a new
study from the University of Florida and University of Pennsylvania
http://tinyurl.com/ynsq2s
Senate Committee Seeks Funding Ideas for Next-gen 911
Public-safety and industry experts this week told the Senate Commerce
Committee that next-generation 911 technology will greatly enhance
emergency response and should be available soon, but leaders of the
committee questioned how to pay for such IP-based upgrades
http://tinyurl.com/ypunq3
Sprinkler Association Hosts Free Webcast
The International Residential Code Fire Sprinkler Coalition announced
plans to host a free educational Webcast on home fire sprinklers. The
program will broadcast on May 3, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. EDT
http://www.twlk.com/fire/IRC_home.html
Device aims to take speed out of the chase
On the lookout to reduce the danger of high-speed pursuits, law
enforcement officials in Los Angeles and Florida are field-testing an air-
propelled dart, consisting of a plastic ball with a GPS locator, that
attaches to a fleeing car
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/23711.html
First Responder Authentication Credentials
Alexandria, Virginia, has become the first city to use the First Responder
Authentication Credentials (FRAC) system to verify the qualifications of
emergency professionals in crisis situations
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/21081.html
Track and bust organized shoplifting gangs
The FBI and several national retail organizations have created a new
computer database to help track and bust organized shoplifting gangs
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/24131.html
April 11, 2007
Interoperability Gateways/Interconnects
Report describes how gateways work, explains key factors that can affect
performance, outlines the steps to deploying a gateway, and summarizes
the two primary aspects of gateway management
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/217105.pdf
Voice Encryption for Radios
Report explains how encryption helps ensure that voice transmissions
are secure and accessible only by authorized personnel
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/217103.pdf
Migrating from Cellular Digital Packet Data
Public safety agencies that use commercial cellular digital packet data
(CDPD) will soon be forced to migrate to another method of
communication
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/217104.pdf
A Networked Approach to Improvements in Emergency Management
http://tinyurl.com/2woj8v
Connect & Protect program
The Portland, Oregon Connect & Protect program makes it possible to
send targeted emergency alerts and share critical information in real time
among emergency management operations, first responders, critical
infrastructure providers, and other public safety stakeholders
http://tinyurl.com/3cgrrv
Cops give LED flashlights a try
A race is on to reinvent the police flashlight to take advantage of new
technologies, and the results could change what's tucked in belts worn by
cops across the country
http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/2007-04-09-flashlight-usat_N.
htm
April 4, 2007
First Responder Input Needed for Tech Ideas
The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology
Directorate has established a program, TechSolutions, to support the first
responder community by accelerating delivery of emerging technologies
http://tinyurl.com/34dp34
As land-line customers go wireless, 911 loses funding
Some 911 systems are facing budget crunches as more Americans
unplug land lines and switch to cellphones, shrinking the revenue from
phone surcharges that helps fund 911
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-04-02-911-loses-funding_N.
htm
Pennsylvania emergency radio system slow to connect
A statewide emergency radio system -- 10 years in the making and
millions of dollars over its original budget -- still won't be fully
implemented for two to three years, officials said
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/search/s_500578.html
Improving Emergency Communications
Lessons from Grading America's Cities
http://www.heritage.org/Research/HomelandDefense/bg2021.cfm
Efforts to pass new helmet laws intensify
Lawmakers and safety advocates in eight states are pushing for new
motorcycle helmet laws in a new trend sparked by soaring motorcyclist
fatalities and last year's crash of NFL star Ben Roethlisberger
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-04-03-motorcycle-helmet-
laws_N.htm
Mexican 'ice' replaces home-cooked meth in U.S.
The nation's war on drugs has at least one successful battle: State and
federal laws limiting access to cold medicines containing ephedrine and
pseudoephedrine have dramatically curtailed small "mom and pop" meth
labs
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=9193186
March 27, 2007
Predator protection laws come under fire
Many communities are passing or considering zoning ordinances that
restrict where convicted offenders may reside after being released from
prison
http://americancityandcounty.
com/mag/government_predator_protection_laws_predator/
City Police Spied Broadly Before G.O.P. Convention
For at least a year before the 2004 Republican National Convention,
teams of undercover New York City police officers traveled to cities across
the country, Canada and Europe to conduct covert observations of people
who planned to protest at the convention, according to police records and
interviews
http://tinyurl.com/2pzvl3
IG Criticizes Work On Wireless Network For Law Enforcement
The federal government has spent $195M on a long-promised wireless
radio network for the nation's law enforcement agencies that is at "high
risk of failure," the Justice Department's inspector general reported
http://tinyurl.com/2domsb
Indiana bill would expand police wiretap powers
Technologies such as cell phones and e-mail have made existing law
obsolete, officials say
http://tinyurl.com/ypgxm4
FBI chief: Don't change Patriot Act
FBI Director tried to persuade skeptical senators that the FBI can properly
use its terrorism-era authority to gather telephone, e-mail and financial
records of Americans and foreigners while pursuing terrorists
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/03/27/patriot.act.ap/index.html
Common Fireground Noise May Cause Unintelligibility of Digital Radio
Transmissions
The IAFC is alerting its members to a potential issue and soliciting their
input to a solution
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=33118
Chemical industry plots to kill disputed security provision
Controversial language would give states and localities the power to
enforce chemical security laws that are stronger than federal rules
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=36461&dcn=todaysnews
March 14, 2007
FCC public safety network plan found wanting
The Federal Communication Commission’s recent proposal to create a
nationwide broadband public safety network falls short because it does
not allocate enough radio spectrum to the new network, according to a
national public safety organization
http://www.washingtontechnology.com/online/1_1/30193-1.html
Ohio ends 'plain sight' handgun provision
Municipalities can't toughen restrictions
http://tinyurl.com/2foc2y
Washington D.C.'s Ban On Handguns In Homes Is Thrown Out
City officials said they will appeal a federal appeals court panel ruling that
the city's ban on keeping handguns in homes, enacted more than three
decades ago, is unconstitutional
http://tinyurl.com/2fg599
Many Washington D.C. Red-Light Cameras Broken
About half of the 50 red-light enforcement cameras in the District have
been out of service in recent months, giving a pass to drivers and
potentially depriving the city of millions of dollars in fines, according to a
firm that has taken over the system
http://tinyurl.com/yo3qld
The Future of Homeland Security
An Interview with Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff
http://tinyurl.com/2blozc
The Patrol Rifle: Considerations for Adoption and Use
http://www.policechiefmagazine.
org/magazine/issues/22007/pdfs/ThePatrolRifle.pdf
States tackle texting behind the wheel
Legislators in three states are targeting text messaging to keep drivers’
thumbs on the wheel and off the tiny keypads of their cell phones or
wireless devices in the latest crackdown on distracted driving
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=188546
Terrorists find fertile environment in cyberspace
Finding proof that terrorists plan to launch cyberattacks against the U.S. is
difficult, but the accessibility and vulnerability of the Internet to attack
makes it a growing threat
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/43263-1.html
March 7, 2007
Report Finds States Leading the Charge for Improved Public Safety
Communications
The First Response Coalition released a new report highlighting
numerous states that have leapfrogged national interoperability efforts by
employing unique funding structures, maximizing available spectrum,
and connecting stakeholders through effective governance systems
http://www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=104295
38 States in Rebellion Against Real ID
Some analysts say that the Real ID Act could help identity thieves
http://tinyurl.com/2lfht4
FEMA Taking Hit on Sale of Surplus Trailers
The Federal Emergency Management Agency hurriedly bought 145,000
trailers and mobile homes just before and after Hurricane Katrina hit,
spending $2.7 billion largely through no-bid contracts. Now, it is selling
off as many as 41,000 of the homes, netting about 40 cents on each
dollar it spent
http://tinyurl.com/2vfkf5
Senate Continues Debate on 9/11 Commission Bill
S. 4 would enact recommendations of the Sept. 11 commission and
authorize billions in homeland security spending. A companion bill, H.R.
1, was adopted by the House Homeland Security Committee but has not
come before the full House
http://tinyurl.com/2avr5d
DHS Tests First Responder Credential Capabilities
The Department of Homeland Security Office of National Capital Region
Coordination and the Department of Defense Pentagon Force Protection
Agency joined public and private sector participants last month in a
demonstration to validate the functionality of the First Responder
Authentication Credential
http://firechief.com/news/dhs_credentialing030707/
Social Networking Sites
Connecticut lawmakers unveiled legislation that would require social-
networking sites to verify users' ages and obtain parental consent before
minors can post profiles.
http://www.pantagraph.
com/articles/2007/03/08/news/doc45ef23c443a23225082397.txt
Experimental bird flu vaccine could be doubly promising
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-03-05-birdflu-vaccine_N.htm
February 28, 2007
Law Enforcement Tech Guide for Creating Performance Measures
That Work
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/mime/open.pdf?Item=1968
Law Enforcement Tech Guide for Information Technology Security
Provides strategies, best practices, recommendations, and ideas for
developing effective security policies
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/mime/open.pdf?Item=1969
Diversity Series: Religions, Cultures and Communities
Explores some of the many religions and cultures with which law
enforcement officials come into contact
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/pubs/diversity.html
McCain Backs Public Safety Network Plan
Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., plans to introduce legislation this week that
would create a nationwide communications network for police officers,
firefighters and other emergency first responders
http://njtelecomupdate.com/lenya/telco/live/tb-TVTI1172498530094.html
Stevens Wary Of Wireless Safety Network
The top Republican on the Senate Commerce Committee is harshly
criticizing a proposal by Cyren Call Communications to build and oversee
a nationwide, high-speed wireless Internet network for public safety
http://njtelecomupdate.com/lenya/telco/live/tb-LWRX1171391938708.html
Improving Disaster Management: The Role of IT in Mitigation,
Preparedness, Response, and Recovery
Information technology has unrealized potential to improve how
communities and the nation handle natural disasters and terrorism
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=7254
Webcast: The Next Generation of Homeland Security: Networked
People and Processes
The web cast is scheduled for March 1st
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/xchat.html
Restorative Justice
The Vermont Department of Correction's pioneering reparative probation
program, steers criminals convicted of minor and nonviolent offenses
away from jail to community boards that craft creative sentences
http://www.doc.state.vt.us/justice/restorative-justice/
New Profiling Program Raises Privacy Concerns
The Department of Homeland Security is testing a data-mining program
that would attempt to spot terrorists by combing vast amounts of
information about average Americans, such as flight and hotel
reservations
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/02/27/AR2007022701542.html
New Web site promotes rural safety
Updated information on transportation safety issues in each state
http://www.ruralsafety.umn.edu/
Help Set COPS' 2007 Agenda
Answer a 10-question survey and help set COPS' goals for 2007
http://tinyurl.com/377a85
Bird Flu Vaccine
Federal health advisers recommended that the government approve the
first bird flu vaccine as a stopgap measure, despite evidence it wouldn't
protect most people
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-02-27-avian-flu-vaccine_x.htm
February 21, 2007
Drug Free Communities Support Program
Applications for DFC grants are due April 17. Priority is given to coalitions
serving communities where 20 percent or more children are living below
the poverty line
http://www.samhsa.gov/Grants/2007/sp_07_001.aspx
National Homeland Security Consortium Identifies 17 Priorities for
Action
http://tinyurl.com/yrv9em
Homeland Security Online Courses
The Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and
Security is now offering non-credit versions of its Master's degree
courses online
http://www.chds.us/?special/info&pgm=Noncredit
Former College President Calls for Lowering Drinking Age
The age-21 drinking law is "bad social policy and terrible law," forcing
college students to take their alcohol use underground and promoting
dishonesty among college officials about drinking culture on campus
http://tinyurl.com/2bkewp
Study Finds Rich Kids More Likely to Use Drugs Than Poor
Disposable income, disconnected families, and pressure to succeed all
contribute to drug use among upscale youth, adding that parents in these
communities add to the problem by denying that it occurs
http://tinyurl.com/2xf2lx
Access and share information on new International Association of Fire
Chiefs state and provincial legislation forum
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32904
Bunker Gear Survey Needs Your Measurements
The National Fallen Fire Fighters Foundation and the Fire Apparatus
Manufacturers’ Association are trying to obtain better information about
the size, shape, weight and reach of firefighters wearing bunker gear
http://firechief.com/news/bunker_survey021507/
Former Homeland Security Chief Slams Interoperability Progress
Radio spectrum currently earmarked for sale to commercial
communications companies should be set aside for police, fire and
emergency responders
http://www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=103975
February 13, 2007
Florida proposes multistate disaster fund
Frustrated by inaction in Washington, Florida officials are asking other
states to join them in setting up an insurance catastrophe fund to bail out
regions hit by cataclysmic disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes,
flooding and even terrorism
http://tinyurl.com/ywnct7
Study predicts rise in inmate populations
The number of inmates in U.S. prisons likely will rise nearly 13% during
the next five years, costing states up to $27.5 billion in new operating and
construction expenses
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-02-13-prisons_x.htm
Senators unveil homeland security grant plan at odds with House
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=36127&dcn=todaysnews
February 6, 2007
Free Resources for Smaller Police Agencies
Free resources for smaller police departments can be force multipliers
http://tinyurl.com/3cwsm7
More towns putting deer in the cross hairs
The nation's swelling deer population is prompting a growing number of
towns and cities to permit hunting within their borders, much of it by bow
and arrow
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-02-06-deerhunt_x.htm
Devices could disable terror bombs
National security arm to test 'Render Safe' for local agency use
http://tinyurl.com/2sroz5
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to realign BioSense to
focus on most populous cities
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention plans to narrow the
focus of its key disease surveillance system, BioSense, and proposes to
reduce 2008 funding for state and local programs and projects to
respond to pandemic flu outbreaks by $125M, compared with 2007 levels
http://www.fcw.com/article97564-02-05-07-Web&newsletter=yes
Adults Liable for Serving Alcohol to Youths, South Carolina Supreme
Court Says
The South Carolina Supreme Court has ruled that adults who
intentionally serve alcohol to underage youth can be sued for damages
http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/news/local/16629413.htm
How the proposed federal budget will affect programs that are relevant
to the fire service
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32808
The Less Lethal Technology Working Group
Assists local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in developing,
implementing and enhancing policies governing the use of less lethal
technologies
http://www.less-lethal.org/web/home.aspx
Flaws found in firefighters' last line of defense
U.S. waited 5 years to heed expert's warning on ‘man down’ alarms
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16890732/
Personal alarms used at fire scenes might be failing
U.S. Senator asks the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to
investigate “deeply troubling” information indicating that the federal unit
charged with probing firefighter deaths ignored a warning in 2000 that
personal alarms used at fire scenes might be failing
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16994965/
Flu Pandemic
In the first wave of a severe flu pandemic, dramatic strategies to keep
people away from each other, including closing schools and day care
centers for up to three months at a time, might be needed to slow the
spread of illness and limit the number of deaths, federal health officials
said
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-02-01-flu_x.htm
Bird Flu
The world should expect more bird flu outbreaks in the coming winter
months, the U.N. official coordinating the global fight against the virus
warned Sunday after Britain recorded its first case of the H5N1 strain on a
commercial farm
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-02-04-UN-bird-flu_x.htm
January 29, 2007
An urgent plea to code officials throughout the U.S.
Proposed one- and two-family home sprinkler requirements in the
International Residential Code
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32751
State/Provincial Legislative Discussion Forums
The International Association of Fire Chiefs launches a new forum for
sharing information about state and provincial legislation
http://www.iafc.org/statelegislativeforum
Democrat seeks more money for DHS grants to colleges, universities
Lawmakers should give the Homeland Security Department more money
to distribute to colleges and universities in grants to develop homeland
security "centers of excellence," the chairman of the House Homeland
Security Committee said
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=35979&dcn=todaysnews
House member puts rail security at top of his panel's agenda
Legislation his committee will produce would establish federal standards
and oversight for both passenger rail mass transit systems and freight
rail systems, especially those that transport hazardous materials
http://www.govexec.com/story_page.cfm?
articleid=35981&dcn=todaysnews
"Vital Partners: Mayors and Police Chiefs Working Together for
America's Children and Youth"
Includes examples of effective partnerships from 17 cities
http://www.nlc.org/content/Files/IYEF_COPS_report.pdf
Emergency Management in County Government: A National Study
Examines key aspects of county emergency management, including its
organizational structure, budgets and funding, personnel and training,
use of technology, and ways counties collaborate with other government
entities and nongovernmental organizations
http://tinyurl.com/2bzsd8
To state workers: get fit or lose your job?
Florida's corrections secretary has proposed mandatory fitness levels, to
the dismay of a prison officers' union
http://tinyurl.com/ynntgk
January 22, 2007
PandemicFlu.gov
One-stop access to U.S. Government avian and pandemic flu information.
Managed by the Department of Health and Human Services
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/
Modeling Community Containment for Pandemic Influenza: A Letter
Report
Report explores the quality of existing models about a potential influenza
pandemic and their utility for predicting the effects of various community
containment policies on disease mitigation
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=7161
Transportation Security Administration to track rail shipments with
toxic cargo
The government for the first time will monitor rail shipments of potentially
deadly cargo passing through cities to make sure cars vulnerable to
attack don't sit unguarded for too long
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2007-01-21-rail-cargo_x.htm
Ohio State Highway Patrol: Can Individual Troopers Make a Difference?
A move was made to shift away from the past cookiecutter approach to
highway safety and the way field commands are managed. Local
commanders have begun to focus on individual specifics of their
jurisdiction
http://tinyurl.com/282o84
January 16, 2007
Electronic anti-meth tracking requested in Iowa
Excessive pseudoephedrine sales would trigger an alert
http://tinyurl.com/2qqdpk
Report: States, localities to invest more in comms
State and local governments will boost their technology investment by 40
percent in the next five years as they struggle to overcome
communications problems that stymie coordinated emergency response
efforts
http://www.fcw.com/article97309-01-10-07-Web&newsletter=yes
Cutbacks Impede Climate Studies
The government's ability to understand and predict hurricanes, drought
and climate changes of all kinds is in danger because of deep cuts
facing many Earth satellite programs and major delays in launching
some of its most important new instruments
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/01/15/AR2007011501049.html
January 9, 2007
High-tech program predicts killings
Philadelphia will take advantage of new statistics software to predict
which recent probationers are most likely to reoffend
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16650.html
Statewide computer system to aid police in monitoring gangs
Police departments across Maryland will soon be able to use the Internet
to share information about gangs through a new secure program called
GangNet, federal prosecutors announced
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16545.html
A first in the nation panel offers fresh avenue for appeal
More than 75 convicted felons in prisons across North Carolina have
submitted claims of innocence to the state's newly created Innocence
Inquiry Commission in what they hope will lead to their exoneration and
freedom
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16598.html
Overview: FY 2007 Homeland Security Grant Program
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/grants-2007-program-overview-
010507.pdf
Talk to me
What is the point of upgrading communication technology if public
officials cannot settle who is in charge and what procedures to follow?
http://americancityandcounty.com/mag/government_talk_terrorists/
School Guidance During an Influenza Pandemic
http://www.idph.state.il.us/pandemic_flu/schoolguide.htm
Child identity theft
Now that infants and toddlers have Social Security numbers, identity
thieves can run wild for years before victims grow up enough to take
noticehttp://tinyurl.com/y9r4bx
DHS to Boost 6 Cities' Share of Anti-Terror Funds
Chastened by complaints about poor federal cooperation and by
controversy over its slashing of aid to New York and Washington last year,
the Department of Homeland Security will reserve about $100 million of
the $747 million it will dole out to U.S. cities this year to pay for police
counterterrorism operations in six metropolitan areas
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/01/05/AR2007010501782.html
Acoustic gunshot-detection system
Boston city councilors, law enforcement officials, and community leaders
are pressing City Hall to come up with $1.5 million to buy a promising
acoustic gunshot-detection system
http://tinyurl.com/y4sxvk
House Bill Backs Additional Reforms From 9/11 Report
House Democrats announced legislation aimed at implementing many
of the remaining reforms suggested by the Sept. 11 commission,
including calls for more thorough cargo screening, better emergency
communications and more money for cities at the highest risk of terrorist
attack.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2007/01/08/AR2007010801623.html
9/11 bill at top of House 100-hour agenda
House Democrats kick off their self-imposed 100-hour deadline to pass
priority legislation on Tuesday, beginning with a national security bill.
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/09/house.agenda/index.html
Dem bill seeks to improve info sharing at DHS
As part of legislation submitted to implement the 9/11 Commission
recommendations, the new Democratic majority in Congress has a plan
to improve information sharing within the Homeland Security Department
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42908-1.html
Judges Hope for Sentencing Review in Congress
Federal judges are among those hoping that the new Democratic
Congress will change current mandatory-minimum sentencing laws that
leave many jurists feeling hamstrung, especially in drug cases
http://tinyurl.com/y8ovwk
January 2, 2007
Taser sells small version for wider use
Taser International has unveiled a new model of its controversial stun
gun designed for widespread use by regular folks. It's more affordable
and small enough to be stashed in a purse or backpack
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-01-08-little-taser_x.htm
Everett, Washington Police Department: Crime-Free Rental Housing
The Everett Police Department used information, technology, and
education to address crime in rental properties
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1071&issue_id=122006
Strategic Planning as a Management Philosophy
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1066&issue_id=122006
Researcher studies meth exposure on kids
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/health/1500ap_meth_research.html
1 In 3 Drivers Under 'The Limit' For Alcohol Still Test Positive For Drugs
One in three drivers suspected of driving while ‘over the limit,’ but
subsequently found to be below maximum permissible levels of alcohol,
nevertheless tested positive for a range of drugs, reveals research in
“Injury Prevention”
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=59001
Judge rules against traffic cameras
Every motorist who has received a citation from Davenport, Iowa’s red
light and speed cameras may get a refund after a court ruling that found
the machines violate Iowa motor vehicle laws
http://www.qctimes.
net/articles/2007/01/03/news/local/doc459ac944623a9554725656.txt
Report: Only 6 U.S. cities excel in crisis communications
http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/01/02/emergency.communications.ap/index.
html
December 26, 2006
The STOP (Sober Truth on Preventing) Underage Drinking Act
Called the most significant piece of underage-drinking prevention
legislation passed by Congress in years, has been signed into law by
President Bush
http://tinyurl.com/ylk3vo
Justice Department Database Stirs Privacy Fears
The Justice Department is building a massive database that allows state
and local police officers around the country to search millions of case
files from the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration and other federal law
enforcement agencies
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2006/12/25/AR2006122500483.html
FCC proposes public-safety wireless band
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission wants to set aside radio
frequencies for a nationwide public safety network to be built in
partnership with a private company
http://www.infoworld.com/article/06/12/20/HNpublicsafetywirelessband_1.
html
The year in health was a scary one
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-12-25-year-in-health_x.htm
Congress clamps down on selling of phone records
http://tinyurl.com/ueggo
Katrina fraud costs could top $2 billion
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15587326/
December 21, 2006
Challenges to city cameras going to court
The challenges to Davenport, Iowa’s speed and light cameras are hitting
Scott County District Court with arguments in one case being given before
a district judge
http://www.qctimes.
net/articles/2006/12/16/news/local/doc4583939355fad303625855.txt
Pot called top cash crop in America
Study: Market value exceeds $35 billion
http://tinyurl.com/yeun4s
Tiered Advanced Life Support System for Emergency Medical Services
http://www.nationalcitynetwork.org/view_city_practices.html?id=426286
Teen drug use drops, with exceptions
Drug use among teens continued its decade-long drop, but some drugs,
including cough syrup, prescription painkillers and inhalants, remain
popular, a new national survey says
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-12-21-teens-drugs_x.htm
Fruity 'alcopops' snaring teenaged drinkers
That bottle your teen has been drinking from may look like an energy
drink, but could be loaded with more alcohol than beer
http://www.pantagraph.
com/articles/2006/12/22/news/doc458b19e11f0ad084597829.txt
1 traveler tied to more than half '05 U.S. measles cases
The biggest U.S. measles outbreak in a decade -- 34 people stricken in
Indiana and Illinois last year -- was traced back to a 17-year-old girl who
had traveled to Romania without first getting vaccinated
http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/12/21/measles.traveler.ap/index.html
Study reveals flu toll
A flu virus as deadly as the one that caused the 1918 Spanish flu could
kill as many as 81 million worldwide if it struck today, a new study
estimates
http://tinyurl.com/y3q7fg
Webcast
Pandemic Influenza Planning: Local Government Assistance; January 25,
2007
http://tinyurl.com/ymjlra
Security of the nation's rail systems
The Department of Homeland Security has issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking to vastly strengthen the security of the nation's rail systems in
the highest threat urban areas
http://firechief.com/news/High-risk_hazmat12212006/
Retention and Recruitment for the Volunteer Emergency Services
Challenges and Solutions
http://www.nvfc.org/pdf/2006-retention-recruitment-guide.pdf
December 11, 2006
'Fish bowl' helps addicts clean up
Local officials say it works because it gives recovering drug addicts
something to fight for. It rewards them with the hope that good things do
come in small packages
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16374.html
Database to give police new tool against domestic abuse
Ohio will soon implement a pilot program to help police enforce civil-
protection orders designed to stop violent and harassing behavior
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/16088.html
Drug Courts Reexamined
A panel of drug treatment and court experts discussed research on adult
drug court outcomes and costs, and the factors that affect program
implementation and impact. View the archived multimedia
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/xchat.html
Ready or Not? Protecting the Public's Health from Disease, Disasters,
and Bioterrorism, 2006
"Ready or Not? Protecting the Public's Health from Disease, Disasters,
and Bioterrorism," found that five years after the September 11th and
anthrax tragedies, emergency health preparedness is still inadequate in
America
http://healthyamericans.org/reports/bioterror06/
Nationwide interoperability for first responders within reach
More than two-thirds of emergency response agencies in the United
States use some degree of interoperable communications, allowing
them to speak directly with other agencies
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42778-1.html
A “Report Card” for Urban Areas’ Emergency Evacuation Capability
New Survey Ranks 37 Largest Urban Areas, Identifies Key Factors for
Reviewing Readiness Plans
http://www.highways.org/Press_Releases/release10-12-06.htm
Critical Connectors
During emergencies, citizens and even some disaster workers depend
on libraries for Internet connections to the world
http://www.governing.com/articles/12talk.htm
December 5, 2006
Click here for drug offenders in your area
Internet listings have popular appeal, but do they really protect the public?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15971396/
Bird flu virus 'still smoldering,' U.S. expert says
http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/12/06/bird.flu/index.html
Statewide radio interoperability carries hefty price tag
State emergency managers estimate it will cost $7 billion to achieve
statewide interoperable communications for first responders, according
to a new survey by the National Emergency Management Association
http://www.washingtontechnology.com/news/1_1/daily_news/29800-1.
html
Pioneering law enforcement agencies use data sharing and analysis
tools to step up anti-terrorism contributions
Thinking of local police as first responders recognizes only one of the
important contributions they can make to homeland security
http://www.fcw.com/article96760-11-13-06-Print&slnewsletter=yes
The Missing Link in Homeland Security
Private security organizations are responsible for protecting more than
many suspect; by some estimates, 85 percent of the critical U.S.
infrastructure is protected by private security
http://tinyurl.com/yadq8u
The Personal Competency Model - When Round Pegs Don’t Fit
As agencies struggle to maintain service levels and meet rising
expectations, it becomes necessary to get the most out of employees in
new ways.
http://tinyurl.com/yekcva
California Using Fiction to Fight Methamphetamine
http://www.jointogether.org/news/headlines/inthenews/2006/california-
using-fiction-to.html
Caution Urged with Composite Floors
There have been several cases of firefighters falling through floors made
of composite structural components and an even greater number of near-
miss situations. This type of construction is being investigated as a
contributing factor in a line-of-duty death
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=32101
November 29, 2006
All 50 states should aim to have interoperable systems for public
safety by the end of 2008
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42675-1.html
Several states report mosquito-borne virus
Chikungunya, a severe and sometimes deadly infectious disease that
has devastated the islands of the Indian Ocean, has arrived in the United
States
http://tinyurl.com/yxtfbg
November 14, 2006
Volunteer firefighters scarce
A shortage of volunteer firefighters in Colorado is threatening public
safety in some areas by slowing down response times, officials say.
Nearly 60 percent of the state's fire departments are all-volunteer, and
many of them have trouble finding firefighters because of demographic
trends
http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_4694156
Spy agencies now share the Wikipedia way
It is hoped that the new software will make collaboration easier
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/15643.html
Florida introduces new technology to help track offenders
Rapid ID employs hand-held devices, allowing officers to quickly identify
individuals by scanning in their fingerprints to retrieve their criminal file
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/15614.html
The Nation's first-responders can now take two new Incident
Command
System review courses online through the National Emergency Training
Center Virtual Campus
Q-462 - ICS 100, Introduction to ICS for Operational First Responders
Q-463 - ICS 200, Basic ICS for Operational First Responders
http://training.fema.gov/VCNew/firstVC.asp
CHRIS+ Hazardous Materials CD-ROM
The United States Coast Guard has published a free resource CD-ROM
that brings comprehensive chemical information to the fingertips of fire
and safety service personnel responding to a hazardous materials
incident
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/786/136216/
Seven Signs of Terrorism Training Video
http://tinyurl.com/tdtgh
Emergency Management and Homeland Security: An Overview
http://www.icma.org/main/ld.asp?ldid=20123&hsid=10&tpid=23
A Networked Approach to Improvements in Emergency Management
http://www.icma.org/main/ld.asp?ldid=20175&hsid=10&tpid=23
Unconstitutional Policing: The Ethical Challenges in Dealing with Noble
Cause Corruption
When uncovered as a pattern or practice, the police crimes defined as
noble cause corruption can result in constitutional rights litigation that can
financially cripple agencies
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1025&issue_id=102006
Employee Disciplinary Matrix: A Search for Fairness in the Disciplinary
Process
Unfortunately, perceived unfairness is an all too common condition in law
enforcement agencies
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1024&issue_id=102006
Local officials tap new location-aware and multichannel emergency
alert systems to better reach a more mobile citizenry
http://www.fcw.com/article96777-11-13-06-Print
November 7, 2006
Application Procedures Announced for the 2007 Harvard Fire Executive
Fellowship Program
http://tinyurl.com/yaso6b
New Network To Solve Emergency Logistics Nightmares
The National Emergency Management Network is an economically
sustainable service network that enhances the ability of local
governments to plan for, and respond to, both local incidents and major
disasters
http://www.icma.org/main/ns.asp?nsid=2696&mgtinsite=1
Police Pursuit and High-Speed Driving Lawsuits
http://tinyurl.com/y3nyvl
Phoenix, Arizona to create new security job
Phoenix is ratcheting up homeland security efforts by transforming the
traditional police chief post into a higher-profile job that consolidates
security oversight of aviation, transit, water and emergency operations
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/1107chief1107.html
International Association of Fire Chiefs Board of Directors Urges
Member Support of New Broadband Spectrum Proposal
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=31871
November 1, 2006
Slamming the brakes on highway fatalities
To reduce the number of car collisions, public officials and automakers
in the United States, Europe, and Japan are investing in advanced
technologies such as on-board intelligence and smart highways
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/news/15147.html
Preparing for a Local Crisis within a Global Pandemic
Program focuses on the actions and planning a community should be
taking now to deal with local effects of a global influenza pandemic
http://tinyurl.com/ygx3gc
County emergency management agencies on rise post Sept. 11
In the years since September 11, better than 75 percent of the nation’s
counties have established an emergency management agency that either
reports directly to the top officials in a county or is a separate unit within a
public safety division or department
http://tinyurl.com/ybly95
Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program
The U.S. Department of Justice has announced the designation of nearly
$29M in awards to over 4,500 law enforcement agencies across the
nation for the purchase of bulletproof vests through the Bulletproof Vest
Partnership Program
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bvpbasi/docs/FY06_Awards_Reports.pdf
Crime Prevention Presentations Available
The National Crime Prevention Council, in partnership with BJA, has
released the second set of crime prevention PowerPoint presentations.
These presentations are designed to be used by local law enforcement
officers and other crime prevention practitioners to provide information to
communities on crime issues and prevention strategies
http://www.ncpc.org/training/Powerpoint_Presentations.php
Service Learning Manual for Youth Courts Online
http://www.crfc.org/youthcourts.html
Identity Crime Web Site Launched
www.IDSafety.org was designed to help both consumers and law
enforcement officials prevent and report identity crime, investigate
perpetrators, and respond effectively to victims
http://www.idsafety.org/
Webcast Reexamines Drug Courts
Drug Courts Reexamined, a Webcast sponsored by Government
Innovators Network and NIJ, will be held November 13, 2006, from 2-4 p.
m. ET
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/spotlight.html?id=159&preview=1
October 24, 2006
Resources for Fire and Emergency Services: School Violence
https://www.llis.dhs.gov/
Gunshot Sensors Are Giving D.C. Police Jump on Suspects
System Can Determine Location of Crime
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2006/10/21/AR2006102100826.html
Study revives debate over LAPD's 3-day workweek
Response times are found to be longer and overtime costs are up, but
the schedule is hugely popular with rank-and-file officers.
http://tinyurl.com/wfd9r
USFA and the IAFC Develop Model Policy and Procedures Guide for
Emergency Vehicle Safety
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/research/safety/vehicle.shtm
Trucker database may be pattern for new Real ID Act pointer system
An informal but influential working group of state and federal driver’s
license officials has recommended that states adopt a database now
used to keep track of hazardous-material truckers as the pattern for a
pointer system for information sharing required by the Real ID Act
http://www.gcn.com/online/vol1_no1/42378-1.html
Media Violence Reports Rarely Mention Alcohol
A new study found that although alcohol plays a role in 31 percent of
homicides, and many assaults, just 2.6 percent of TV reports, 7.3 percent
of newspaper reports, and 5.6 percent of magazine reports mentioned
the link between the violent crimes covered and alcohol use
http://www.jointogether.org/news/research/summaries/2006/media-
violence-reports-rarely.html
Near-Miss Reporting Reaches Milestone: 1,000 Reports Submitted
The National Fire Fighter Near-Miss Reporting System (www.
firefighternearmiss.com) reached a milestone with the submission of the
1000th report submitted to the system
http://www.iafc.org/displayindustryarticle.cfm?articlenbr=31816
Consumer Reports tests two devices that monitor teen driving habits,
focusing on pros, cons and privacy issues
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show 5,896
people between 16 and 20 years of age died from motor vehicle crashes
in 2004
http://autos.msn.com/advice/CRArt.aspx?contentid=4023927
October 17, 2006
Hiring Top Cops: DOJ Sponsors FREE Webcast
Get best practices and expert advice for hiring and retaining the best
qualified law enforcement professionals, at a FREE live satellite
broadcast sponsored by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of
Community Oriented Policing Services on October 24, 2006, 2:00 p.m. - 3:
30 p.m. EDT
http://www.dojconnect.com/
Teens Who Frequently Have Family Dinners Less Likely to Drink,
Smoke, or Use Drugs
http://www.cesar.umd.edu/cesar/cesarfax/vol15/15-39.pdf
Some seeing red over red-light tickets
Cameras that snap photos of motorists running red lights have been
upheld as constitutional by courts in five states and Washington, D.C., but
some car owners refuse to concede defeat and are continuing to
challenge them.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2006-10-17-redlights_x.htm
Fire Chief Announces 2006 Station Style Awards
Results of FIRE CHIEF’s sixth annual Station Style Design Awards
program, which recognizes outstanding architecture and design within
fire departments nationwide, are now public
http://firechief.com/news/station_style_winners10102006/
The National Emergency Management Network
The Public Entity Risk Institute (PERI) and the International City/County
Management Association (ICMA) are establishing a "National Emergency
Management Network" (NEMN) to help local governments forge stronger
pre-disaster relationships and take mutual aid to a new level
http://tinyurl.com/yfhpt9
October 12, 2006
Buyer beware of toxic meth-lab homes
Health officials in a handful of states are warning home-buyers and
renters to check an online database of busted "meth houses" to make
sure they don't move into a contaminated former drug lab
http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=147134
States must help save pets
States will be required to help evacuate pets during a natural disaster
such as a hurricane or earthquake or risk losing federal money under a
bill signed by President Bush
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?
file=/c/a/2006/10/10/MNGQPLLPNI1.DTL
October 3, 2006
Congress wants Office of Emergency Communications office at
Department of Homeland Security
Congress is calling for the Homeland Security Department to establish
an Office of Emergency Communications to tackle the kind of long-
standing problems that hindered first responders on Sept. 11, 2001, and
again in the wake of Hurricane Katrina
http://www.fcw.com/article96279-09-29-06-Web&newsletter=yes
National Governors Association Launches State Pandemic
Preparedness Project
The Pandemic Preparedness Project will address the critical issues of
public health preparedness, continuity of government planning,
maintenance of essential services and the development of community-
based and cross-border response strategies
http://www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=101360
Police, firefighters challenge residency rules
'Recruitment and retention nightmare'
http://tinyurl.com/gqd7y
CompStat: Managing Performance on the Pathway to Leadership
Since the CompStat process was introduced by the New York City Police
Department in 1994, it has been widely adopted and is partly responsible
for contributing to significant improvements
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=998&issue_id=92006
"A Networked Approach to Improvements in Emergency Management"
Urges changes at the national level and fleshes out a new model for
emergency management preparedness and response
http://tinyurl.com/pevz7
September 27, 2006
Guess Who’s Coming to the ER?
It turns out that lower-income people are not the ones clogging up
emergency rooms
http://www.governing.com/articles/9health.htm
Policewomen: Their First Century and the New Era
Women in policing now make up approximately 13-14 percent of all
employees, and the women who pioneered this entry into a male-
dominated profession faced many obstacles, but also experienced many
rewards
http://policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=1000&issue_id=92006
September 25, 2006
DHS Grants $191 Million to Defend Cities
The Department of Homeland Security awarded $191M in grants
yesterday to defend ports, transit systems and bus lines from terrorists,
increasing funding for major urban areas in the Northeast and mid-
Atlantic states whose funds were slashed earlier this year in a
controversial decision
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-
dyn/content/article/2006/09/25/AR2006092501347.html
Court upholds ruling against traffic cameras
The state appeals court slammed the brakes on Minneapolis' use of
traffic cameras to ticket people for running red lights. But the battle isn't
over yet
http://www.startribune.com/462/story/695167.html
Device helps police spot stolen cars
Mobile license-plate-recognition systems can scan a parking lot full of
cars in minutes and read license plates of cars driving by at high speed
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0921evgadge0920.html
Day reporting eases jail overcrowding
Across the nation, the inmate population in county jails is growing to
problematic levels. As a result, many counties are creating alternatives to
incarceration, such as day reporting centers
http://americancityandcounty.com/mag/government_day_reporting_eases/
4 Questions for Return on Investment: Choosing the Right Police
Training
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=996&issue_id=92006
Long Beach, California: Less-lethal Weaponry Case Study
http://www.policechiefmagazine.org/magazine/index.cfm?
fuseaction=display&article_id=999&issue_id=92006
Free Software
Incident Commander is a PC-based software simulation that models
real-world situations within a community, allowing for training at the
management level to a critical incident
http://www.incidentcommander.net/
September 13, 2006
Even Rural Counties Should be Prepared for Terrorist Attacks
Terrorism isn’t just an urban threat, and counties must be prepared for
the possibility of attacks close to home - even in rural areas, according to
Dr. Boaz Ganor, an internationally recognized counterterrorism expert.
http://www.naco.org/CountyNewsTemplate.cfm?
template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=21107
Are Red-Light Cameras Fair to Drivers?
These modern-day robocops make ticketing easier and can be huge
moneymakers for local governments. But critics question their accuracy
and fret over privacy issues.
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.
com/Insurance/InsureYourCar/AreRedLightCamerasFairToDrivers.aspx?
page=1
September 6, 2006
Volunteer Aides to Motorists let Police Focus on Fighting Crime
Chesterfield County, Virginia's citizen volunteer Motorist Assistance Team
program allows the police to deploy their resources more strategically
http://www.naco.org/CountyNewsTemplate.cfm?
template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=20946
A New Model for Disaster Response
Historically, the U.S. has tried to manage disasters with a "command and
control" approach. What is needed now is a dynamic and network-
centered approach that has the flexibility to move resources and assets
where they need to be, when they need to be there
http://www.governingbynetwork.com/Management/ONeill_Aug16.html
Improving Pedestrian Safety at Unsignalized Crossings
A recent report from the Transportation Research Board (TRB) examines
selected engineering treatments to improve safety for pedestrians
crossing high-volume and high-speed roadways at unsignalized locations
http://www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?id=6630
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