Behavioral Threat Assessment Units: A Framework for State and Local Law Enforcement

Saturday, October 19, 2024

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM ET

Location: 205A

Submitter(s)

KL

Katie Lord

Supervisory Domestic Security Strategist
U.S. Secret Service
Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Speaker(s)

Lina Alathari, Ph.D

Chief
U.S. Secret Service, National Threat Assessment Center
Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Steven Driscoll, M.Ed

Assistant Chief
U.S. Secret Service, National Threat Assessment Center
Washington, District of Columbia, United States

In 2024, the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center will publish a framework for state, local, territorial, and tribal agencies on establishing behavioral threat assessment units within their agencies. The framework includes steps that agencies can use to adapt the Secret Service threat assessment model to identify, assess, and intervene with those who pose a risk of mass violence. Based on decades of agency research and operational experience, the steps offer a blueprint for agencies varying in size and include establishing behavioral threat assessment unit and policies; creating operational protocols and procedures; identifying and processing reports of concerning behavior; gathering information to assess for risk; developing risk management strategies; and promoting continuous improvement and a culture of prevention.