Adjusting to Terorism

Adjusting to Terrorism

Marquell Garrett

CJA/454

September 2, 2013

Candy Atkins

Adjusting to Terrorism

In a new technological world that has allowed terrorist greater capabilities in spreading their message through information systems and conducting their attacks through new transportation measures it is imperative that local police agencies are prepared.If there is the development of intelligence information concerning a possible terrorist operation or in an event of an attack the local police force will need to not only be properly trained but have the necessary resources to effectively respond to this event.

Ever since the terrorist attacks on American soil and the development of Homeland Security, and the enactment of the USA Patriot Act, law enforcement has been provided with broader investigatory powers. These new investigatory powers, which include wiretaps, sneak and peak warrants, and the detainment of possible terrorist without due process rights, unfortunately have not been afforded to the local police department. Information of possible terroristic activity is on a need to know basis which usually involves only federal officers having access to this information.

In order for the local police department to be adequately prepared for a terrorist attack they will not only need to be provided with these additional investigatory powers but to have access to intelligence information that can prepare them for any possible terroristic events in order to be properly prepared to prevent or respond to these situations. A great deal of the responsibility for preparing for and responding to terrorist events rests with local police departments (Wexler, 2001). In order for them to be prepared they must first be informed.Local police departments must partner with the F.B.I to develop an effective partnership against terrorism both domestic and foreign.

The next important aspect in the local police department adjusting to a new world where the threat of...