Justice Issues: Counter-Terrorism

Justice Issues

Counter-Terrorism

The events of September 11, 2001 changed our nation. On that day, fighting terrorism became the responsibility of every American.

BJA recognizes that it is the job of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to bring terrorists to justice, but we also believe that every citizen can play a vital part in helping to prevent terrorism. Our role is to facilitate the ability of citizens, whenever possible and appropriate, to participate in terrorism prevention and preparedness efforts.

Like America's citizens, our nation's law enforcement officers face new challenges to responding effectively to terrorism. To meet these challenges, law enforcement officers must have the training and resources they need to prevent future tragedies. Local and state governments must find new ways to quickly disseminate threat information and rally first responders in the event of an attack. They must also learn new ways to work with the community to gather and assess information about potential terrorist operations and to integrate counter terrorism measures into their daily operations. BJA is committed to working with all levels of government to help prevent, disrupt, and defeat terrorist acts before they occur.

BJA will continue to support the State and Local Anti-Terrorism Training (SLATT) Program, an initiative that teaches law enforcement about counter-terrorism measures that work at the community level.
Working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys, and other federal agencies, BJA, on behalf of the Office of Justice Programs, is coordinating counter-terrorism training efforts nationwide to avoid duplication, meet emerging needs, and ensure consistent and appropriate training information. To learn more about this initiative, visit the Counter-Terrorism Training and Resources for Law Enforcement web site.
Because of the tragedy of September 11, it is more important than ever that state and local governments communicate with law enforcement and first responders quickly. To help meet this challenge, BJA will work with the Regional Information Sharing System centers to provide secure communications networks for state and local governments and offices charged with homeland security.

For more links, search our Related Web Sites database.

Training
For detailed information on federally sponsored anti-terrorism training, visit the Criminal Intelligence Training Master Calendar, BJA's Law Enforcement Training database, or the Counter-Terrorism Training and Resources for Law Enforcement web site.