Homeland security strategic plan for the non-major local law enforcement agency

Abstract

Effectively implementing a homeland security program within police agencies labeled "non-major" in the United States is a challenge that requires different approaches from those that the large, or "major" departments employ. This research provides critical analysis leading to recommendations on how this important implementation can be accomplished without increasing the budget or personnel requirements within a given agency. Using a rigorous policy analytical framework and a representative case study approach, the findings coordinate and suggest how this process can fit into an agency's plan to protect and respond to a community while successfully merging new and existing homeland security programs. The research finds that within a non-major police agency, the critical nodes for implementing effective homeland security hinge on an integrated leadership, communication and data collection synergy that leaders of these non-major departments can be taught and implement. This research contributes to the growing literature seeking to merge traditional law enforcement responsibilities with emerging homeland security requirements more effectively.