State and Local Role in Domestic Defense

• NCJ Number: 193449
• Author(s): John D. Cohen; John A. Hurson
• Date Published: 2002
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: Progressive Policy Institute
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Research Paper
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded March 8, 2002

Annotation

This article examines the need for State and local law enforcement to develop strategies to respond to critical incidents.

Abstract

State and local governments should develop a comprehensive strategy to deal with the prevention of, and response to, critical incidents. The paper recommends a variety of actions, which include the following steps: launch "integrated justice information systems to link the information from various arms of the criminal justice system concerning people who commit crime and location of crimes"; integrate emergency response systems so that first responders from different agencies can communicate with each other; establish a coordinated surveillance, identification, containment, and response system to minimize the effects of a biological or chemical attack; and make it easier for the public to call for help with a 2-1-1 system used in some locations. In regard to communication during a critical incident, it is important that first responders communicate with each other in real-time via radio. Most public safety entities operate radio systems that use different frequencies. In order to correct this problem, several States will deploy seven cross-band radio connector devices at various locations throughout the State. In regard to defending against biological and chemical attacks, a comprehensive response plan would include the following: establish a local State command center; obtain adequate detection equipment; integrate secure communication systems among statewide detection units; develop statewide disease surveillance information systems; accelerate specialized training of health care providers; coordinate protection of local first responders and facilities; ensure access to stockpiled medications and vaccines; construct decontamination facilities at hospitals; increase surge/bed capacity for all hospitals; and coordinate all local biomedical response with current Federal and military systems. Finally, State and local governments need to make it easier for the public to call for help. Connecticut deployed a statewide 2-1-1 telephone system for information and referral services on health and human services. This type of system provides resources for local governments to respond to crisis situations.