Terrorism Early Warning and Intelligence Fusion for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism

Abstract

Intelligence fusion centers are one approach to providing intelligence, indications and warning, and analytical support to government agencies at all levels of government, and across jurisdictional boundaries, to address a range of issues, including terrorism and violent extremism. This article provides a case study of the Los Angeles Terrorism Early Warning Group (LA TEW). The LA TEW was a pioneer in developing and providing comprehensive, all-source intelligence support to a metropolitan region. The TEW model included law enforcement (police and corrections), fire service, emergency medical services, public health, and emergency management agencies, along with a network of subject matter experts to provide insight into terrorist threats, extremism, critical infrastructure protection and emerging threats. The LA TEW also developed a range of analytical models and approaches to provide intelligence support for civil protection and counterterrorism that are reviewed in this article.