NCJ Number
211321
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 74 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2005 Pages: 14-21
Date Published
September 2005
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Since terrorists who intend to do harm to residents in America may already be in this country, they are likely to be moving about on the Nation's roads and highways, which means that patrol officers are in a unique position to observe and interdict suspicious vehicles and their occupants either before or during traffic stops.
Abstract
For patrol officers at all levels and geographic areas to be effective in recognizing and responding to suspicious activities and persons who might be involved in terrorist activities, there must be research-based, standardized training for all patrol officers. Training in terrorists' tactics should become part of the curriculum used in FTO (field training officer) programs; roll-call briefings; annual update training; and as part of supervisory, mid-management, and executive-level professional development programs. Of course, this involves increased training costs. States should consider allocating more of their terrorism-prevention funds under Federal grants to reimbursing police academies for backfill and overtime costs associated with lengthening basic training and professional development programs that offer more terrorism-related training. Since terrorists tend to come from certain ethnic and religious groups, patrol officers should be trained in cultural awareness and social skills in interacting with members of these groups in the course of their duties. Such friendly contacts can open channels for valuable information. Patrol officers should be continually updated on the kinds of information that can be useful in identifying terrorist activities. 9 notes