Police Officer's Perception of Homeland Security Mission Case Study

Homeland security involves multiple government agencies working together in order to protect communities and citizens from consequences occurring during natural disasters and terrorist attacks. The federal government encourages building community resiliency and advocates for communities to address all hazards in their emergency management programs. Local agencies, like law enforcement departments, are the first line of defense protecting residents and are first to respond when disasters occur. Law enforcement agencies play a critical role in the terrorism prevention mission for the nation but are vital first responders when disasters occur. Community resiliency is the ability of communities to effectively prepare for disasters, resist the effects of and recover from natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Law enforcement agencies are an essential part of the community's resilience but little is known on how law enforcement officers perceive their role in homeland security and community resilience. This case study involved the review of departmental documents and interviews conducted with fifteen sworn officers from throughout the department. The results of the study indicated the officers have a low perception of involvement with homeland security but feel their duties support community resiliency building efforts. Results from the interviews revealed officers feel sharing information with the public, training for response to critical incidents and developing relationships with other agencies are the most critical actions needed to build community resiliency. Future research on community resiliency should be conducted at a city or county level to include conducting research in fire departments and police departments within one community assessing the actions being completed or omitted within the community.