Date of Submission
12-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in National Security
Department
National Security
Advisor
Howard Stoffer, Ph.D.
Keywords
Information Sharing, Local Law Enforcement, Counterterrorism, Communication Frameworks
LCSH
Law enforcement, Terrorism--Prevention, Police communication systems
Abstract
Local law enforcement agencies play a critical and increasingly central role in the United States’ domestic counterterrorism architecture. While federal agencies possess sophisticated intelligence capabilities, local officers are often the first to encounter early indicators of radicalization, pre-operational planning, and suspicious behavior. Despite this frontline role, communication between local, state, and federal agencies remains fragmented, inconsistent, and sometimes informal. These gaps weaken national situational awareness and limit the ability of agencies to identify emerging threats.
This thesis examines the structural, technological and cultural challenges hat impede effective information sharing among law enforcement agencies. It outlines best practices that local departments can adopt to support intelligence-led policing, enhance cooperation, and maintain public trust. It further proposes a modern, secure, interoperable information sharing system designed to unify suspicious activity reporting across jurisdictions, supported by strong civil liberties safeguards and multilevel governance.
The analysis demonstrates that ethical, standardized, and technology supported communication frameworks are essential to a resilient national counterterrorism strategy. Effective security requires not only identification of threats but also preservation of constitutional rights, as the U.S. cannot throw out the rights of its citizens for promised safety. A collaborative, transparent, and privacy respecting model of information sharing ensures that local law enforcement can fulfill its vital role in preventing terrorism while upholding democratic values.
Recommended Citation
Fitterman, Michael G., "Best Practices for Local Law Enforcement in Counterterrorism: Enhancing Interagency Communication & Developing Modern Information Sharing Systems" (2025). Master's Theses. 269.
https://digitalcommons.newhaven.edu/masterstheses/269