Domestic Intelligence Operations

Over the past 10 years, each state and local government have implemented information and intelligence sharing policies and practices, including the creation of one or more state-level fusion centers, in an effort to create a seamless, interactive system of information sharing to counter the terrorist threat. The systems in place vary from state to state based upon their perceived need, pre-existing law enforcement practices and constructs, legal frameworks, and financial capabilities. The efficacy of state fusion centers has been extensively researched. Numerous academic papers have been written exploring the sharing of information between local, state and federal authorities. Despite enormous financial investments, many argue that the current constructs remain inadequate or, conversely, are overblown given the domestic threat profile.

In this assignment, you will outline the current information and intelligence sharing construct between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in the state of your choosing. Describe its evolution since 9/11 (explaining pre-9/11 constructs as appropriate). You will then draft the strategic plan based on your evaluation of the current strengths and weaknesses of, and investment in the states' information-sharing capabilities.

What are the key federal agencies that engage in domestic intelligence operations? Briefly describe each.
What are each of their primary areas of responsibility? Explain.
Briefly describe the purpose of the National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC).
What agencies are assigned to the NCTC?
How does the NCTC interact with state fusion centers? Explain.
Describe the efforts undertaken by the FBI during the Counter Culture Movement of the 1960s and 1970s to infiltrate prominent protest organizations and the changes that have been implemented (e.g., legislative, structural, agency policy) since then, resulting in today's FBI.

Strategic Plan
Select a state of your choice within the United States for your strategic plan
How has its intelligence-sharing construct between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies evolved since 9/11 (explaining pre-9/11 constructs as appropriate)? Explain in detail.
Does the system in the jurisdiction you selected to provide a platform for rapid, comprehensive information sharing? Explain in detail.
How will you modify the existing policy of the chosen state to improve the efficacy of its information-sharing operations? Use the following questions to guide your policy recommendations:

What successes have been achieved? Explain.
How can the lessons learned from these successes be applied to other components of the system? Explain.
What opportunities to improve exist? Explain.
Is the investment being made in this system justifiable (e.g., too much, too little)?
Conclude your policy recommendation with a summation of your major points.