Empirical Insights of Intelligence Dissemination from Employees and End-Users of a Fusion Center in the Northeast

• In Event: Police Intelligence and Forensics

Abstract

Fusion centers are perhaps the most tangible change to the American law enforcement landscape post-September 11, 2001. These centers, of which there are currently 77 officially recognized by the Department of Homeland Security, are designed to facilitate the timely and relevant sharing of intelligence and information across federal, state, local, and private partners for purposes of preventing threats and reducing crime. Given a host of security and sensitivity issues related to gathering data relevant to studying these centers, progressing the literature within this arena has been difficult at best. The present study utilizes original survey data from employees and end-users of a fusion center in the Northeast region of the U.S. to inform this research shortcoming. Findings are compared to what is currently known about fusion centers. Policy recommendations are put forth to improve awareness of fusion center mission and operational capabilities among state and local law enforcement end-users.

Authors

• Carla Lewandowski, Rowan University

• Jeremy Carter, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis

• Walter Campbell, Rutgers University