Evolving the local fire service intelligence enterprise in New York State: implementing a threat liaison officer program

Abstract

Eleven years after the attacks of 9/11, the local fire departments in New York State (excluding New York City) have made limited progress toward increasing their involvement in the homeland security intelligence enterprise. The New York State (NYS) fire service, however, has underutilized potential to be effective contributors, consumers and collaborators with regards to intelligence and information sharing. As the threats facing the fire service and the citizens it protects continue to evolve, the local NYS fire service must build upon NYSs intelligence strengths and overcome existing gaps. This thesis recommends developing and implementing a locally initiated, statewide fire service inclusive Terrorism Liaison Officer (TLO) program. Based on four factors (effectiveness, efficiency, political and legal feasibility, and adaptability), a systematic policy options analysis compares three nationally recognized TLO programs to determine a recommended NYS TLO program model. A detailed implementation strategy is developed to address key stakeholder challenges. This thesis demonstrates that instituting a NYS fire service inclusive TLO program will be a catalyst for evolution. Increasing the local fire services involvement with the homeland security intelligence enterprise is a natural evolution of the fire services existing public safety mission.