NCJ Number
192992
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 50 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2002 Pages: 80-81
Date Published
2002
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article reviews information sharing between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and State and local governments regarding homeland security.
Abstract
In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the United States, it became apparent that the Federal Government and State and local government must work together in the sharing of information. This article reviews the limitations of sharing information, task force formation, information sharing and lessons learned. In reference to the limitations of sharing information, it is sometimes the case that information received by the FBI is classified. On other occasions, the information is not specific enough. Rules of Federal procedure and Grand Jury classified material are two other limitations regarding what kind and information and how much material can be shared. One solution to these problems involves adding the number of people in State and local agencies that can access classified information. In reference to task force formation, the FBI is creating joint task forces based on common crime problems such as cyber crime or terrorism. Information gathered from these task forces will be shared with outside agencies. When a task force is formed in conjunction with the FBI, a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is created. The MOU is designed so that everyone on the task force knows exactly what is expected. The article describes the information sharing that occurs in Tampa, Florida. According to James Sewell, the regional director of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the FBI’s partnership with State and local law enforcement has been good for many years. Another Federal law enforcement special agent said that since September 11 the FBI trusts other agencies a little more. And Colonel David Gee of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said that the sheriff’s office and the Tampa Office of the FBI have an excellent relationship. One primary lesson learned from these experiences is that when Federal, State and local law enforcement work together and share information they are more effective. The whole is more powerful than its parts.