National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC)

WHAT: The Biggest and Best Gang Training Conference --- Gang School 2021.

When? --- August 2nd, August 3rd, August 4th, 2021

Where is it being held? --- Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago Hotel

Why Attend? Read more inside this on-line version of the brochure.

Who Should Attend: Anyone who is impacted by the gang problem, whatever your role, rank, or status in life. If you can be potentially enlisted in the fight against gangs, you are welcome. From prosecutor to corrections professional, from gang specialist police officer to gang counselor at the local high school or a local prevention program; or maybe you are just someone who wants to learn a lot more about gangs and network with others nationwide.

How to Attend: A registration form is provided at the end of this file, you can fax it in or mail it in. You can print out just the Registration Form itself at www.ngcrc.com/register.html

NGCRC CONTACT INFO: (TEL: 708 258-9111; FAX 708 258-9546).

The 2021 NGCRC 24th Gang Specialist Training Conference

2021 Conference Information Site--- The Full Text On-Line Version

Last UPDATED: September 16, 2020

© Copyright 2020-2021, NGCRC, Chicago, IL.. You are now in the "2021 Conference" section of the National Gang Crime Research Center, this is a lengthy fext file that explains everything you could possibly want to know about the exciting "in person", "face to face", classroom based, gang training conference being held in Chicago, August 2-4, 2021; the main website of the NGCRC is: www.ngcrc.com Click here if you want to visit the main page of the NGCRC: www.ngcrc.com.

What's New: We Have Started to List the Sessions that Will Be in the 2021 NGCRC Gang Trainining Curriculum --- See Below

We have now started to list the actual training sessions that will be included int he 2021 NGCRC Gang Training Program. There are N = 24 sessions listed in this advance listing of the 2021 curriculum. This is provided below and at: https://ngcrc.com/courses.html

What's New: We Have Started the 2021 Presenter Bio File --- See Below

We have started to list the biographies of the presenters for the 2021 NGCRC Gang Training Conference. It is provided below, as well as at: https://ngcrc.com/presenters.html

THE 2020 NGCRC Gang Training Conference Was a Big Success

The 2020 NGCRC Gang Training Conference held in Chicago Aug. 3-5, 2020 was a big success. It was a hybrid conference, providing classroom based training and on-line video-based training sessions. We have posted the statistical evaluation results and some comments by those who attended.

What's New: Statistical Evaluation Results from the 2020 NGCRC ConferenceAre Now Posted Below

The 2020 NGCRC training program's statistical evaluation results are now available and reported below.

What's New: Qualitative Evaluation Results from the 2020 NGCRC Conference Now Posted --- Comments From Those Who Attended the Aug. 3-5, 2020 NGCRC 23rd Gang Training Conference

The comments in the Evaluation Forms have now been transcribed and are provided below.

What's New: Online Video Training System

What we learned from the 2020 Conference, in adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic, is that a video-based training platform provides many advantages to and significantly supplements the regular "in-person" classroom-based training program. We will continue to offer this feature in the 2021 program --- it is a very useful option is what we found out. We had over 30 hours of training content to select from from the video training system --- meaning that someone who was registered for the 2020 conference could in fact have completed it entirely "online".

What's New: The NGCRC Has an Open Invitation for Gang Specialists to Make a Presentation

The NGCRC's 2021 conference Curriculum Committee is now accepting proposals for new presenters to make a presentation at the August 2-4, 2021 NGCRC's 24th Gang Specialist Training Conference to be held in Chicago. All details are provided below.

This is Your Invitation to Attend the August 2-4, 2021 Conference:

It's the conference you cannot afford to miss. In the summer of 2021, the National Gang Crime Research Center will hold its 24th gang training conference in Chicago --- once again bringing together the Nation's top experts on gangs and gang-related issues.

It's the experience you’ve come to expect --- the opportunity to network with law enforcement, corrections, prevention and intervention gang specialists, those working in K-12 Schools, the mental health field, nd private sector professionals from all over the country and abroad.

Once again, the NGCRC will be offering you an enormous variety of choices to craft the education that is most pertinent to you and your jurisdiction.

You'll come away with new insights, the latest intell, and the most effective strategies to combat gangs.

You cannot afford to miss the NGCRC's 24th Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago (Summer, 2021).

Don't delay!

There is a registration form for you at www.ngcrc.com/register.html and at the end of this large text file which describes the training conference in great detail.

AN INVITATION FOR GANG SPECIALIST PRESENTERS:

Dear Gang Specialist:

The NGCRC cordially invites you to consider making a presentation at the 2021 Twenty Fourth NGCRC International Gang Specialist Training Conference (August 2-4, 2021 at the Westin Hotel). The 2021 event is going to be a major event in gang training. There will be some new and wonderful events at the 2021 NGCRC Conference, you will want to be a part of it. Perhaps doing so as both an attendee, plus being a presenter too. There is still a little time to get a session added to the 2021 conference.

This is your formal invitation to submit one or more “session proposals”. When you make a presentation at the NGCRC training conference you get national attention. You get a lot of positive exposure.

To help you get started, below, please find a "Session Proposal Form". It is simple, there are only a couple things we need on the form. The most important is going to be the topic and the abstract. We encourage you to think creatively. We can also help you if you want it: we can help you with picking a topic, or with finalizing a topic. To get help, just call (708) 258-9111 and ask to speak to someone from the 2021 Curriculum Committee. Or leave a number, and someone will call you.

The NGCRC supplies the following equipment to all training rooms and thus to all presenters: an LCD or data projector. We do not supply laptop computers. You must bring your own laptop to connect to the LCD projector. The NGCRC also supplies a screen, work or equipment table, a lecturn, and a power strip, and an external speaker if you need it (we like to use Bose Soundocks, but we have other models). Overhead projectors are not provided.

If you need audio equipment, we have an assortment of computer speakers that can be checked out of the Goodwill Ambassador's Equipment Room, you will need to check in with them when you first arrive at the conference. Some audio equipment like the large and powerful speakers (we have a few of the Bose Sound Dock speakers, has connector to iPod or iPhone) need to be reserved at the Equipment Room if you want it set up in advance in your room, so check in with them Sunday evening or Monday morning. If you need to buy your own connector cables or anything for your laptop there is a BestBuy right across the street from the conference hotel. You need to go to the equipment room as soon as you get to the conference to check in with them if you want any sound system or speakers. Feel free to bring your own speakers even your own LCD or data projector if you like.

You can also get help with “creative ideas” for a new session proposal. We already know what some of the “need areas are”, so you can get good feedback and counseling from the NGCRC on the type of session that will be “popular” and well attended in 2021. We can do this interactively with you on the phone, again, just call (708) 258-9111 and ask to speak to someone from the 2021 Curriculum Committee. Or leave a number, and someone will call you. You will find more information about the call for presenters below. Note: The call for presenters will likely end early this year, as we had over N = 100 different sessions in the 2020 program. So act now if you are interested.

Cordially,

George W. Knox, Ph.D.

Executive Director

NGCRC

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS FOR THE 2021 NGCRC 24th GANG SPECIALIST TRAINING CONFERENCE:

This is an official invitation for you to be a presenter at the 2021 NGCRC 24th Gang Specialist Training Conference to be held in Chicago, August 2-4, 2021 at the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel, 909 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL.

You want to act quickly on this invitation to become a presenter at the 2021 NGCRC conference. We are planning on some new and exciting events this year. You want to become a part of this exciting 2021 Conference. Please note, though, that no financial incentives of any kind (including waiver of registration fees) can be offered. Presenters will be expected to be registered for the conference, unless special arrangements are made.

You are cordially invited to submit a session proposal for the 2021 NGCRC gang training conference. You are allowed to submit and present more than one proposal.

The presentations may vary in length from a minimum of one hour to a maximum of three hours. Most sessions are one or two hours in length. You will need to select a title that accurately reflects what people will learn in the session; you need to specify how long the session will last in duration; you need to decide which “tracks” your session will give credit for; you need to provide a short “abstract” or description of what the session will cover; and you need to provide a short "bio" about yourself.

The "Session Proposal Form" is provided below for your use. Please follow that as a template or guideline. Feel free to call if you have questions (call 708-258-9111, just ask to speak with someone from the 2021 Curriculum Committee).

If there was a topic you wanted to consider for a session, but you needed some information or clarification: then again, you are encouraged to call any time in this regard ---- for example, just to “run an idea” up the flag pole, would a certain topic be useful at the conference, etc. While the NGCRC is very good at nurturing new presenters, we are not able to offer you any type of financial assistance. Note: The call for presenters will end shortly.

Here is some good advice to anyone interested in being a presenter at the NGCRC Conference: make sure that the content of your session corresponds to the title of your session. There is an evaluation form that all attendees complete, and they are asked to evaluation and provide a rating of between zero "0" (not effective) to ten "10" (very effective) as a range of how effective the speaker was. So do not subject yourself or the NGCRC to any potential criticism for having a misleading session title. The best way to avoid such a potential criticism is once you start your power point presentation, right after the title page, your second page of the power point presentation should be an outline of what is actually covered in your session. You might also created a page for what is not covered in your session, in both cases at the start up of your session. This way, if someone is looking or shopping for a specific issue, they have time to get up and leave right away and go to a different session. There are always 7 or 8 or more sessions going on at once.

Your proposal(s) will be evaluated by the 2021 Curriculum Committee. We are usually able to get back to you with a decision in ten (10) days. You can use the form below or a facsimile of this form to submit your session proposal.

Call for Presenters:

2021 NGCRC Conference Session Proposal Form

(Worksheet and Outline)

Title of Your Session:_________________________________________________________

Duration of Your Session in Hours:_______________ hours

Any restrictions on who can attend? ___Yes ___No (if Yes, who do you want to restrict this to___________)

What Track(s) Will This Session Fit Into?_________________________________________

Abstract (describe what people will learn in your session, about 100-150 words)

__________________________________________________________________________

Bio (describe your credentials, achievements, 100-150 words)

___________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

Please submit your session proposal soon, call if you have any questions. Fax it to: (708) 258-9546 and then mail it to make sure we get it: NGCRC, 2021 Curriculum Committee, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. Warning: The call for presenters will close early this year.

Here is one sample of a session from a previous NGCRC conference, note the format has a “gang” issue in the title; gives a duration; specifies what tracks the session will be useful for (feel free to call about this if you need help: call 708-258-9111, just say you want to talk to someone from the Curriculum Committee).

"Gangs and Extremists in the American Workplace and Military: A Current Assessment", by Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, CPP, Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

Duration: Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs in the Military.

Abstract

Gang member infiltration of American occupations now includes legitimate businesses/corporations as well as military careers. Gang life on many military installations is now common as gang members move with parents in the military from place to place helping disseminate gang culture. Some so-called super gangs (e.g., Gangster Disciples) encourage military ties for gaining access to weapons and training. This security concern with gangs in the American workplace and military is legitimate given present day terrorist linkages. This segment will seek to enlighten security and law enforcement professionals on the emergent threats posed by street gangs and extremist groups who are increasingly entering mainstream occupations and the armed services.

Bio

Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, CPP is a nationally known security litigation expert with many years experience in handling civil litigation relating to street gangs. He has researched gang activity in a variety of venues including: public housing, casinos, fast-food restaurants, apartment complexes, concerts, shopping centers, and convenience stores. He is an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and administers the Graduate Program in Security Administration at the University of Detroit Mercy. He teaches courses in Juvenile Justice and Gangs and Deviant Social Groups and is a regular presenter to the Detroit Police 80 Hour Crime Prevention School. He is also a member of the Crime Prevention Association of Michigan (CPAM).

THE NGCRC IS NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE ANY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OF ANY KIND TO PRESENTERS:

This is a longstanding policy, but needs to be formally declared in writing when dealing with the issue of invitations for presentations. Please be advised that the NGCRC is not able to provide any financial assistance of any kind to presenters. The NGCRC does not ask for any government subsidy, and thus no funding is available to assist presenters along these lines. The NGCRC treasures the intellectual freedom it has in addressing the kinds of issues it addresses, and it may not be able to offer some of its curriculum features with government subsidies or there could be a disadvantageous expectation from government funding that relates to our current “independence”. The NGCRC by making this invitation for session proposals specifically declares that this it is not able to provide any kind of financial assistance, subsidy, allowance, fee, honorarium, per diem, travel, or reimbursement of expenses, etc for such persons make presentations.

TOPICS WE REALLY NEED PRESENTERS FOR:

"The Dynamics of Hybrid Gangs"

"Gang and Organized Crime Activity on the Dark Web: Advanced Internet Investigation"

"Developing Ways to Treat PTSD For Staff Exposed to Gang Violence"

"Examples of Gang Crime Investigation/Prosecution of Hybrid Gangs"

"Open Source Gang Investigation"

"How To 'Gang Proof' the School Zones in Your Jurisdiction".

“How to Achieve Better Community Relations and Still Achieve Effective Gang Enforcement”.

"How to Achieve Pure Primary Gang Prevention in the School".

"Achieving Gang Prevention for Tomorrow by Targetting Gang Leadership Today".

"Zero to Low Cost Gang Prevention and Intervention Program Services You Can Offer in Your Jurisdiction".

“How to Start a Gang Court in Your County”.

"Innovative Techniques for Interviewing Gang Members and Gang Associates".

"What We Really Need for Gang Prevention Laws in the Next Decade"

"The Use of the Polygraph in Gang Interviews/Debriefings".

"What We Really Need for Gang Investigation Skills in the Next Decade"

"How to Start a New Gang Renunciation Program in Your Correctional Facility".

"How the Federal Procurement Process Works for Getting Federal Grants and Funding for Your Gang Prevention/Intervention Program: NIJ, OJJDP and Others"

"New Technology to Fight the War Against Gang Violence".

"Dealing With Gangs on the Reservation"

"Gang Involvement in Credit Card Fraud"

"Gang Involvement in Identity Theft"

"An Analysis of Native American Gangs" .

“The Anatomy of a Gang Prosecution: From Crime Scene to Final Appeals and Parole Hearings”

"Advanced Gang Identification About Crips"

"Advanced Gang Identification for Blood Gangs".

"Recent Developments in Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs".

"How to Investigate Social Media Usage by Gang Members"

"New Laws that We Really Need for Gang Prosecution in the Next Decade"

"How to Monitor the Internet Sites Related to Your Community That May Have Gang Shout Outs and Gang-Related Activity (Recruiting, Gang Message Boards, etc)"

"New Policies/Procedures We Need in Corrections to Deal More Effectively With Gangs/STG in the Next 10 years".

"Things that Work and Don't Work in Dealing With Gang Members in Juvenile Correctional Facilities"

"How to Effectively Use Anonymous Cash Rewards for Solving Cold Case Gang-Related Crimes".

"New Policies/Procedures We Need in K-12 Public Schools to Deal More Effectively With Gangs in the Next 10 Years".

"How to Start a New Faith-Based Gang Prevention/Intervention in Your City".

"How to Increase Respect for the Law Among At-Risk Youths and Gang Members"

"How to Implement a Gang Victim Assistance Program"

"Building Trust in Our Communities: Overcoming the Stop Snitching Gang Distrust Problem"

"How to Increase Ethnic, Racial and Cross-Cultural Tolerance Within a Gang or At-Risk Population"

"Gangs and Organized Crime Involvement in the Sale of Body Parts"

"Gang Involvement in Human Trafficking"

"The Use of Drone Technology in Gang Investigation"

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The 2021 NGCRC 24th International Gang Specialist

Training Conference (August 2-4, 2021):

A Look at the Presenters

Last Updated: Sept. 19, 2020

George W. Knox, Ph.D.

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He was the author of the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Sgt. Christopher Moore

Christopher Moore started at Joliet PD in 2003. In 2006 he was assigned to the tactical unit, where the unit’s primary focus was on gangs, guns and drugs. In 2009 he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and Detective Sergeant in 2015 where he is currently assigned to the Criminal Intelligence Section. Sgt. Moore holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from Western Illinois University, graduated from Northwestern University’s Supervision of Police Personnel class in 2011 and graduated from Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command in 2015. Sgt. Moore is a member of the Midwest Gang Investigator Association and has attended NGCRC conferences since 2015. Sgt. Moore is responsible for identifying and tracking gang members and trends in the Joliet area, testifying as an expert witness as a gang expert, and assisting outside agencies in their investigations by providing reports and intelligence information. Sgt. Moore is a Department trainer on gangs as well as providing public service to outside organizations (schools, libraries, hospitals, community meetings, etc).

Robert Mulvaney, M.A.

Robert Mulvaney has an extensive background in the Criminal Justice field including positions as a correctional officer, prison counselor, parole officer and STG specialist. In addition he has taught numerous Criminal Justice courses as an adjunct faculty member. He has been a member/coordinator of various research and prevention organizations and has conducted Gang/STG related training at various levels of local, state and federal government. He has also written articles for professional correctional organizations as well as the Journal of Gang Research.

Randilynn Rodriguez

Randilynn Rodriguez is a paralegal and gang specialist. She recently completed the NGCRC ‘s 2020 Gang Specialist Training Program and she is a researcher is known for internet investigations, monitoring prison gang activities, and validating gang members through the department of corrections and detention centers. She works closely with county attorneys, Sheriff’s department security, and other gang investigators throughout the United States.

Grant E. Smith

Mr. Grant Smith is a member of the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division (CJIS) National Crime Information Center (NCIC) external training staff. Mr. Smith is a retired police officer with twenty-two years of law enforcement experience. For twelve of the twenty-two years, he was assigned to a multi-jurisdiction and multi-agency narcotics and violence crime task force as a task force agent and supervisor. Other law enforcement experience includes time in the Patrol Division, Investigations Division, and as a Special Response Team as a team leader. He also served as an investigator on the county’s Child Sexual Abuse Task Force. Additionally, he was a member of the department’s Counter Drug Reaction Team, and the department’s Police Honor Guard. Immediately upon retirement from the police department, Mr. Smith served as a member of a forensic team with the Combined Explosive Exploitation Cell (CEXC) in Baghdad, Iraq. As an FBI training instructor, Mr. Smith conducts training for municipal, county, state and federal agencies. He is also part of the FBI’s New Agent Training Team in Quantico, VA and participates in CJIS internal training. In 2015, Mr. Smith was the recipient of the Frederic Thrasher Award for Superior Service in Law Enforcement Training. Mr. Smith is a United States Navy Veteran.

Philip J. Swift, Ph.D.

Mr. Swift, Ph.D. is a husband, father, and a 22-year law enforcement veteran. Since April of 2018, Mr. Swift has served as the Fort Worth City Marshal. Prior to becoming the City Marshal, Mr. Swift rose to the rank of Captain in the Denver Sheriff Department. During his law enforcement career he served as a City Marshal, Director of Security, Watch Commander, FTO Commander, Gang/Intelligence Unit Commander, K-9 Unit Commander, Internal Affairs Bureau Investigator, Conduct Review Office Sergeant, Emergency Response Unit member and Sergeant, Court Services Sergeant, and as Adjunct Training Academy Instructor. Mr. Swift holds a MS and Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology from Walden University and has also received dual MBA’s and a BS in Criminal Justice from American International University. Mr. Swift is a published author (Gangs, Outlaw Bikers, Organized Crime & Extremists; Looseleaf Law Publishing), a contributor to Inside Police Psychology: policepsychologyblog.com, and is frequently asked to speak locally and nationally on topics related to gang, criminal, inmate, and law enforcement culture, forensic psychology, and jail gang investigations.

Veronica Williams

As the Supervisor of the Gang Renouncement and Dissociation (G.R.A.D.) process at the O.B. Ellis Unit and Estelle Unit in Huntsville, Texas before retirement, Ms. Williams created this group process for her Master’s degree project for which she was honored wih an award by Springfield College in Springfield, Mass, not only for the content of the project but also for being the first person in Springfield College history (1885) to survey inmates. This process was later implemented by TDCJ as a follow-up procedure for tracking the success of the participants who graduated their gang renouncement programs and were put into general population. Ms. Williams was also instrumental in working with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ); in the start up of the Administrative Segregation Diversion Program for confirmed gang members of the prison environment wishing to renounce upon returning to prison.

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Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2020 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2020 Twenty Third NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 3-5, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated over time as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2020 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2020 some 35.1 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 64.9 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

So about 1/3 of the attendees in 2020 had no prior training while about two-thirds have had prior training on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2020 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 96.2 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2020 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”. We even offered more choices during the challenging conditions of a pandemic.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2020 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 65.8 percent of those attending the 2020 conference did so for the first time. In other words, just over a third (some 34.2 percent) of those who attended the 2020 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2020 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 77.1 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2020 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the 2021 NGCRC 24th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 94.6 percent of those who attended the 2020 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2021 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

Three separate evaluation questions addressed the issue of “networking” because this is always an important “added benefit” of any training, and it becomes particularly valuable as a resource when dealing with gang problems.

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2020 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 97.3 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2020 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 97.2 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2020 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 66.7 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events. There were four (4) different social networking receptions available free to attendees at the 2020 NGCRC training conference.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

The rating system used by the NGCRC to evaluate the performance of the trainers and presenters, as well as its own operations, utilizes a “scale” of values from an absolute low value of “zero” to indicate the low extreme of “not satisfied” to an absolute high value of ten (10) to indicate the high extreme of “very satisfied”. Thus, the “score” in such cases is easy to interpret: the higher the score, the higher the level of satisfaction.

The “mean score” is what is used to calculate an overall score for performance. The mean is the arithmetic mean, a measure of central tendency in the data, and it is calculated by means of an SPSS analysis. SPSS is a statistical software package widely used in the social sciences and criminology.

The evaluation form included the following question measuring the quality of materials: “How satisfied were you with the quality of the take home training materials provided to you?”. Each participant is provided with a “take home goody bag” that contains various printed training materials for future use. The results indicated a mean score of 8.55 on a zero to 10 point scale.

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 8.83 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that almost three-fourths of those who attended, or 74.3 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

NO TOURS OR BALLGAMES IN 2020 DUE TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you go on any of the tours, ballgames, or ride-a-longs”? Ballgames were cancelled in 2020. In compliance with COVID-19 prevention measures, we did not offer large tours or ride-a-longs in 2020.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 9.02 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support. As we tell our trainers, scoring a 9.02 on a zero to 10 scale is an “A” in anyones book.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2020 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (72.2%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 20.8 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 93 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.63 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2020 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

These scores and achievements by the NGCRC in its 2020 gang training program were completely in line with previous years except for the COVID-related changes. The NGCRC operated in strict compliance with the COVID-19 restrictions for the classroom based training held in Chicago. All evaluations analyzed here came from those trainees actually attending the Chicago training event held in 2020 at the JW Marriott Hotel. This was the year the NGCRC also developed a video-based training system, where trainees could complete 24-hours of training alone from the remote digital training platform if they wanted to — they would not have been required to be present in the Chicago classrooms or stay at any Chicago hotel as they could have just stayed at home and viewed the NGCRC’s new video-based training program.

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Qualitative Evaluation Results from the 2020 NGCRC Conference: Comments From Those Who Attended the Aug. 3-5, 2020 NGCRC 23rd Gang Training Conference

Comments from those Who Attended the Aug. 3-5, 2020 NGCRC’s 23^rd Gang Training Conference:

“The wealth of knowledge and expendables shared by presenters and attendees.” Lt. Tim L. Selvia, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The variety of classes was great, networking opportunities also great. Covid-19 definitely had an impact on the conference but I think the NGCRC did an excellent job putting on the event with the restrictions they had. Looking forward to next year.” Penny M. Hestand, Crime Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“The entire conference was informative, the commitment and efficiency of the NGCRC is impressive and already looking forward to 2021.” Randilynn Rodriguez, Cascade County Attorney’s Office, Great Falls, MT.

“The wealth of knowledge and brilliance of the minds here are priceless. Life is funny ... I am hundreds of miles from home, yet still I find myself surrounded by brothers and sisters.” Kristy Eelbode, Michigan Department of Corrections, Macomb, MI.

“Great environment, quality instructors, and overall quality material. I would highly recommend to all police officers even those not specializing in gang work.” Det. Eric Gizzi, Grand Rapids Police Department, Byron Center, MI.

“NGCRC did a great job adapting to the Covid regulation put upon them. They were still able to provide a quality seminar in the midst of adversity.” Det. James Sutphin, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

“The diverse experience and wealth of knowledge was amazing.” Jaime Centeno, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Informative, educational, top quality and top quantity of information to get in such a short period time. Great diversity of topics. The veterans talk was awesome!!” Richard Boling, 3^rd J.C. Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Hopkinsville, KY.

“Able to connect with a lot of different agencies. Can’t wait to come back next year.” Jonathan Masi, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA.

“Once again a great training experience. Great presenters and great material. Special thanks to Dr. Knox for making sure the conference happened this year. Look forward to attending next year.” Christopher Calhoun, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office - Jail Division, Noblesville, IN.

“The experience of all of the presenters was exceptional.” Sergio Rivera, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Presenters have passion for the topics that they teach.” Det. Michael Giannini, Hudson County Prosecutors Office, Jersey City, NJ.

“All of the instructors were incredible. They were very knowledgeable, friendly, and happy to answer any questions. I was able to make great contacts to use in the future. Looking forward to coming back next year.” Kylie Williams, Hamilton County Juvenile Detention Center, Noblesville, IN.

“Great content, presenters. The video sessions were very helpful at getting content that I wanted even though presenters were not able to physically be here.” Matthew S. Rupp, York County Probation Department, York, PA.

“Loved all of it.” Sgt. Christopher Felton, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“I loved all of the knowledge I gained from this week.” Det. Shane Fox, Jonesboro Police Department, Jonesboro, AR.

“The ability to obtain information and network.” Chelsea Donnelly, York County Probation Department, York, PA.

“Always good time.” Marc DeShaies, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“A lot of information.” Randy M. Dixon, N’STEP, Spokane, WA.

“It is very informative.” Le’Taxione, N’STEP, Spokane, WA.

“Networking, new techniques obtaining gang information.” Fred Caruso, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Great Job!! Even with Covid.” Robert David, Danville, VA.

“Very nice staff. Location (Although Westin location is better). Networking.” Bryan Sylvester, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“It was my first time at the conference, there was a lot of good information, location was nice, and it was great talking with other departments.” Jeremy Warner, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“I enjoyed the training at this year’s conference. The change in location made a difference too.” Keith Thome, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Can’t pick just one, everything is good. A lot of knowledge from many different people.” Rayvin Toma, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“I really appreciated the flexibility and adaptability to pull this off given the health and cultural issues surrounding our society.” Michael Rector, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, Bowling Green, KY.

“Great topics. Learned a lot.” Matthew Davis, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Muncie, IN.

“Great instructors.” Luke Serra, Rock Island Police Department, Rock Island, IL.

“Extremely knowledgeable instructors and class material.” Robert Goins, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“The trainers/presenters presented very informative research for me to share with my department.” Kodie Boyer, Noble County Sheriff’s Department, Albion, IN.

“Great info!” Marlon Pratt, N’STEP, Spokane, WA.

“Great information and presenters.” Emerico Gonzalez, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“The positive attitudes in dealing with the pandemic.” Jimmy Ward, Floyd County Sheriff’s Department, New Albany, IN.

“Tactical Interviewing.” Vincent Calvino, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Meeting others, seeing their perspectives on gangs in different locations, and the variety of presentations.” Kyle Newcomb, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA.

“That NGCRC was committed to still make this experience happen and brought great trainers.” Ronald B. Waddell Jr., Legendary Legacies, Inc, Worcester, MA.

“There was online courses.” Joy McClain, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“The amount of available materials.” Matthew Bowie, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington, NC.

“Networking. Instructors.” Peter Woodin, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington, NC.

“Learned the information provided, going home well educated.” Marvin Marino Mejia, Delaware Department of Corrections, Georgetown, DE.

“Great networking opportunities.” Gabriel Rodriguez, Legendary Legacies, Inc, Worcester, MA.

“Learned other peoples perspectives and ideas. Also a good networking event.” Tyler Hodges, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“It was a wealth of knowledge!!! Great training experience!!!” Melvin Branch, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

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THE NGCRC's COVID-19 COMPLIANCE POLICY

As always, the NGCRC will comply to the letter of the law with any existing governmental guidelines regarding COVID-19 if applicable in 2021.

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The 2021 NGCRC 24th Gang Specialist

Training Conference (August 2-4, 2021):

A Look at the Presenters

Last Updated: TBA

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Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2019 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2019 Twentieth NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 5-7, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2019 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2019 some 44.6 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 55.4 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2019 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 97.5 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2019 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2019 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 66.3 percent of those attending the 2019 conference did so for the first time. In other words, just over a third (some 33.7 percent) of those who attended the 2019 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2019 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 77 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2019 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the NGCRC’s 23rd International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 90 percent of those who attended the 2019 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2020 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2019 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 97.9 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2019 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 92.4 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2019 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 59.7 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events. There were four (4) different social networking receptions available free to attendees at the 2019 NGCRC training conference.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 7.98 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that over half of those who attended, or 59.4 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

OVER A THIRD DID FIELD TRAINING OR BALLGAME

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you go on any of the tours, ballgames, or ride-a-longs”? Some 41.3 percent of the attendees, over a third, indicated that in fact they had in face went on a tour, or attended an NGCRC sponsored ballgame event, or a ride-along. At the 2019 conference we did send over 100 persons to the Cubs game, we had two different field training tours, and we arranged ride-a-longs with the CPD gang unit.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 9.00 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support.

NGCRC GUESTS OFTEN BRING ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS WITH THEM

The NGCRC promises a “family friendly” environment for its conference participants and provided some special features in this regard (e.g., Family ID cards allowing them to take advantage of discounts at restaurants, etc in the area). The evaluation form asked “Did you bring other family members to Chicago this visit?” and the results indicated that 8.7 percent brought one or more other family members with to the conference. There was even a separate question asking attendees to “rate” the hotel, and they gave it very high marks, a mean score of 8.91 on a zero to ten rating scale is a very high level of satisfaction.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2019 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (62.8%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 25.9 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 88.7 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.51 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2019 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

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Quotes from Those Who Attended the NGCRC's 2019 (Aug. 5-7, 2019) Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago.

Here are the findings from this aspect of the evaluation. As seen by the many examples, they provide very important feedback about the effectiveness of the training program and levels of satisfaction with different aspects of the conference and its curriculum and speakers/presenters.

“Quality training”. Matt Messer, PCAT Officer, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“The knowledge and experiences of the presenters and they were very organized”. Jeremy Campbell, K-9 Sgt / STG Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Corrections, Pine Bluff, AR.

“This was a first class training and the best I’ve attended. The accommodations was outstanding. Everyone was very friendly and will to go out of the way to make it a success. The students that volunteered were very professional and polite. Last but not least, the tour to meet brother Raymond was uplifting and outstanding. I will take all I’ve learned to continue to make a difference”. Jimmy Neason, National Youth Advocate Program, Decatur, GA.

“Very informative. Very professional instructors and staff. Will definitely recommend other officers to attend this training in the future. Look forward to coming back”. Christopher Calhoun, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department, Jail Division, Noblesville, IN.

“The knowledge gained for me with 20 years of prosecution experience proves you can teach an old dog new tricks”. Michael Tabarrok, Senior District Attorney, Dougherty District Attorney’s Office, Albany, GA.

“Truly a great variety of speakers from prosecutors to academics to law enforcement to victim advocates. I really enjoyed hearing their perspectives. I thought the gang expert testimony class/presenters were exceptional. Sex trafficking presentations also outstanding.” Jeffrey Hawkins, Senior Assistant District Attorney, Clayton County District Attorney’s Office, Jonesboro, GA.

“Being able to network with gang investigators from all over the globe.” Shawn O’Brien, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“Learning from experts and fellow members of the field from all across the country and world. I got to meet gang prosecutors from New Your who gave me great insight into how to approach prosecuting gang case. Also, session 50, Her Time, was by far the best presentation at the conference. What more two detectives do is amazing.” Anda Lopazan, Hall County District Attorneys Office, Gainesville, GA.

“Having instructors and individuals From a broad range of backgrounds and careers leads a real world feel to this training. Learning how perceptions differ with the same information is vital to bridging the gap.” Jimmy Ward, Floyd County Sheriff’s Department, New Albany, IN.

“I loved this conference. The material presented, knowledge gained, and connections made makes this conference the gold standard, unparalleled to any other training opportunities.” Jennifer Marie Torp, City of Marietta Police, Marietta, GA.

“The staff, the hotel, the training sessions offered are all top notch. Chicago is an awesome city with lots of options following the training. This was my second year in attendance and I plan to return each time I have the opportunity.” Jerred Adkins, Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center, Columbus, OH.

“The opportunities to learn from and network with specialists nationally and internationally”. Judge Wayne E. Grannis, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“There are a lot of classes to choose from which allows you to cover multiple topics & issues.” Timothy Sims, Gwinett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“I learned a lot. It was nice to talk with others in my field who have similar experiences. I like sharing ideas and strategies with other. I loved how religion/faith was incorporated into the conference.” Alysia Mason, Gangs and Disputes Analyst, Rochester Police Department, Rochester, NY.

“Networking with other professionals in the field and learning new ways to help the youth in the gang life styles”. Dwayne Melton, State Training School, Eldora, IA.

“The extra sessions were great to allow a little flexibility in the schedule.” Cor Nieuwland, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“Instructors were well educated on their perespective topics”. Calvin Kennon, Comprehensive Life Resources, Tacoma, WA.

“Broad range of classes to choose from and attend.” Det. Chad Jeffries, Pueblo Police Department, Pueblo, CO.

“Excellent speakers who are passionate and knowledge in the field.” Sandy Avelar, Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Quality of presenters, choice of sessions, and facilities.” Philip J Swift, Marshal, Fort Worth, TX.

“Well organized & good networking opportunities”. Nicholas Minder, Chief of Police, Concord Schools Police Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Enjoyed the variety of sessions & networking opportunities. Extremely valuable information that I will definitely apply to my daily work life. Such as ... training own team, updating curriculum, and informing clients.” Jessica Martinez, Gang Alternatives Program, Wilmington, CA.

“Networking was great. There was a variety of classes on numerous topics to attend.” Christopher Pittman, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“Ability to network with other gang specialists”, Keith J. Thome, Macomb County Sheriff’s, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“I have always sent my staff to this training and this year their were tracks for me as a manager that I felt would take as I look to increase staff on the streets, also bridging the gap with our school district. Lots of work to do maybe they can send a rep with me next year to curb the violence”, Raymond Mayoliz, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“The conference was very helpful in that I learned information that I can use to take back to my agency the start of new programs”, Sean M. Audy, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“As law enforcement, I appreciate the opportunity to learn the other side of gang work. The mental health components of gang involved youth is something some law enforcement are not trained in”, Marco A. Ayala

“You guys stayed professional from start to finish”, Meng Lor, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.

“Todd Negola was awesome and very real. He made us think outside the box. I walked away with a lot of new ways of thinking (looking at things). Captain Swift and Grant Smith did a awesome job too!”, Capt. Joanne Clarey, Georgetown County, Georgetown, SC.

“Lots of options in a condensed space and time frame. Great job”, Maria Duffy, U.S. Probation, St. Louis, MO.

“Excellent training as always”, Sgt. Thomas Strausborger, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Very good training”. Marc Deshaies, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Experienced instructors with good material”. David Wilkins, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Networking”. Christopher Hawthorne, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Very informative. Met a lot of great people. Instructors were very knowledgeable.” Tim Reidy, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Waukegan, IL.

“The ability to network with other professionals from across the country + different agencies.” Summer T. Carney, Department of Justice - U.S. Attorney’s Office, Louisville, KY.

“The breath of knowledge I picked up was tremendous.” Luis Salinas, Houston Community College, Houston, TX.

“The experience that the trainers have. Instructor Todd Negola stood out the most. Mr. Negola was very level headed, real + personal.” Clarence O’Neal, Palos Hills Police Department, Palos Hills, IL.

“Networking-good mix of attendees”. Debbie Kays, Branchy Manager, Kentucky Department of Corrections, Frankfort, KY.

“The class selection was very nice. The selections allowed you to have a wide variety of choices to choose from”. Agent Clinton Denson, Cobb County Police Department, Ball Ground, GA.

“Learned so much”. Roberto Diaz, Worcester Youth Center, Worcester, MA.

“Meeting other people. Hearing about their work. Networking”. Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Edge Hill University, England, United Kingdom.

“Networking”. Det. Bradley J. Beckham, Louisville Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Working with coworkers as one. Meeting the OG at Cabrini Green. This experience was life changing in the way I view things.” Eduardo Pagan, Outreach Program Manager, Friendly House, Inc, Worcester, MA.

“Wide variety of topics and classes to keep you interested all the time.” Patrick Carley, Danville Police Department, Danville, IL.

“The diverse classes/choices .... so many options”. Gary Hensler, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The networking”. Det. Travis Holmes, Syracuse Police Department, Syracuse, NY.

“Networking, learning to other agencies do the same type of work”. Det. Mamoun Abraham, Syracuse Police Department, Syracuse, NY.

“A lot of good networking, good contacts: wish it was a full week!” Armandena Boyk, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Great class lists/good choices/having the Christian gang specialist reception. The ability to see & hear other Christians in this field was great to see.” Nathan Gregory, Polk County Sheriffs Department, Des Moines, IA.

“All the classes were presented well and very informative”. Robert T. David, City of Danville, Danville, VA.

“Freedom to chose sessions was a cool system.” Chris Cushenbery, Minneapolis Police Department, Minneapolis, MN.

“Training-Todd Negola. Experience-Tour at Cook County Juvenile Center. Dep. Director was great!”, Andrea K Jones, Superintendent, Franklin County Juvenile Detention Facility, Columbus, OH.

“I especially enjoy the wide variety of sessions offered by the conference.” Edwin Lee, Jr., New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“I like the different tracks & options.” Sgt. Chris Cavera, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“Large amount of options for classes and good instructors”. William Lind, Quad Cities Federal Gang Task Force, Moline, IL.

“Variety of city and states gang intel and solutions. Friendly people, great experience, educated and knowledgeable teachers.” Dante Brown, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Networking. Diverse Learning base. A lot of options”. Tanner Lewandowsky, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“Many options to pick what classes you want for your needs.” Sgt. Oswaldo Hernandez, Kent County Sheriffs Department, Grand Rapids, MI.

“Excellent Selection and variety of classes. Well Organized and easy to move between classes easily”. Lee McWhorter, Norman Police Department, Norman, OK.

“The best thing about the conference is the way instructors interact with the participants”. Capt. Ney M. Hidalgo, Peumansend Creek Regional Jail, Caroline Detention Facility, Bowling Green, VA.

“Presenters, speakers and trainers did very well.” Det. Teddy Roque, Hudson County Prosecutors Office, Jersey City, NJ.

“A lot of valuable information was given through out the conference”. Sgt. Thomas Newland, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Belvidere, IL.

“Great presenters”. Daniel F. Marmolejo, San Bernadino Superitendent of Schools, San Bernadino, CA.

“Learning new information.” Jennifer Siwieck, U.S. Probation Office, St. Louis, MO.

“The conference was awesome!” Ezell Smith, Cook County Temporary Juvenile Detention Center, Chicago, IL.

“Liked all the opportunities to meet w/ people from many different places. Great networking opportunities like baseball game. Enjoyed all different topics. Great opportunity to hear state and fed laws.” Michelle Goldstein, Queens District Attorneys Office, Kew Gardens, NY.

“The staff is great and provide great access to any information you may need.” Lt. William Loescher, Puyallup Tribe Police Department, Tacoma, WA.

“I love that there are so may sessions, instead of every one being crammed into one room for 3 days. I also like the classes that are scheduled outside of traditional 8-5.” Curtis W Hedgepeth, Instructor, NCPDS - Office of Staff Development and Training, Apex, NC.

“I did get many new ideas and training tools”. Joseph Forgue, Gang Investigator, Rhode Island Department of Corrections, Cranston, RI.

“Variety of choices of classes To choose from. The registration room was easy and the snacks were appreciated”. Shawn Sheckard, York County Prison, York, PA.

“The ability to compare notes with experts from different jurisdictions is very valuable to me.” Scott Halperin, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“A lot of info! Great panel w/ former gang members”. Israel Echevarria Cazares, Washington County Juvenile Department, Hillsboro, OR.

“Networking”. Federico Leon, Washington County Juvenile Department, Hillsboro, OR.

“Staff, facility, vast amounts of knowledge, hospitality, ride along with CPD. Presenter Mulvaney was amazing! He did an amazing job at every session I attended”. Jordan Molnar, Corrections Officer, Lenawee County Sheriffs Office, Adrian, MI.

“All the knowledge from the presenters and how organized everything was.” Jacob Higgins, K-9 Sgt / STG Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Corrections, Pine Bluff, AR.

“The facility was fantastic. The overall experience in reference to the above question on the second and third days were very good. Overall grade would have been an A. Thank you!” Det. James Sutphin, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

“Quantity of classes provided.” Austin Mudd, Corrections Officer, Lenawee County Sheriffs Office, Adrian, MI.

“The best thing I can say about my experience at this conference was that the presenters were very knowledgeable and put on well prepared presentations. I love Todd Negola’s presentations. He always has great information that is presented in a way that keeps your interest.” Kodie D. Boyer, Noble County Sheriffs Department, Albion, IN.

“Offered a variety of classes”. James Pettit, Senior Trooper, Maryland State Police, North East, MD.

“Numerous courses to choose from”. Michael Porta, Maryland State Police, Salisbury, MD.

“The conference was excellent! Had a great time! Love meeting all the people!” Andy Polas, Portland Police Department, Portland, OR.

“I enjoyed the large number of different class options and topics.” Patrick Murphy, Portland Police Department, Portland, OR.

“Great classes and met some great people”. Jerry Ables, Portland Police Department, Portland, OR.

“Well organized. Enjoyed Conference”. Paul Reynolds, City of Marietta Police Department, Marietta, GA.

“Everyone was so informative and accessible”. Monica Rhodes, NOA Counseling, Hopkinsville, KY.

“Very good sessions.” Natascha Jensen, Koege Kommune, Denmark.

“High quality speakers and diversity”. Stine Lukowski, Koege Kommune, Denmark.

“Always excellent classes”. Kevin Kreuser, Cook County Juvenile Probation, Chicago, IL.

“Well put together”. Earnest Wallace, DuPage County Probation, Wheaton, IL.

“Great contacts + networking. Having academics + investigators together. Great info. Important updates + information relevant to my job. Vet reception and Cabrini Green trip were a huge bonus.” Det. Jeremy Mathews, Pueblo Police Department, Pueblo, CO.

“I thought the presenters + support staff were outstanding-sign them to a 10-year contract!” Christopher Claramunt, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“I really liked all the choices in classes. Lots of variety.” Tim Wilson, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“Allowing us to be accountable for our own time, as we are all adults. Phenomenal networking opportunities.” Richard Shanas, Evanston Police Department, Evanston, IL.

“All staff was friendly and professional.” Deputy Erik Merklin, Washington County Sheriffs Office, Hillsboro, OR.

“Flexibility in classes is great, being able to attend part of a class or switch between.” Christopher Tortorello, Evanston Police Department, Evanston, IL.

“I made connections with a nearby investigator and prosecutor who presented and we are going to meet in the future to get tips on how to prosecute gang statutes. Todd Negola is always a great presenter even though I’ve heard him talk on the same topic before. I always get something from his class.” Steven J. Stechschulte, Lima Police Department, Lima, OH.

“The Her Time presentation was great and showed a different perspective of looking at the female associates. El Savador presenter was great. Liked psychologists speaking about criminal minds”. Det. Eric Goetz, Arizona Department of Public Safety, Phoenix, AZ.

“Very organized friendly & accommodating staff welcoming environment.” Kayla Sexton, NOA Counseling, Paintsville, KY.

“Variety of presentations.” Anisha Parhar, Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Todd Negola was the best teacher!” Clarissa Escalante , Comprehensive Life Resources, Tacoma, WA.

“There were plenty of classes to choose from. All the presenters knew their material. The staff was Great! Thank you.” James Mellow, Gwinett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“The opportunity to meet with, and speak to, other people from the criminal justice field is invaluable. Having speakers who are practitioners and academics really helps to make it authentic and valuable”. Dr. Andy Bain,

“The organization, the staff, the volunteers and the documents. Bravo! Keep doing the good job”. Det. Charisse Orman, Intelligence Officer (Dutch Police), Waaigat, Willemstad, Curacao.

“The conference provided great across the board training that applies to all levels of gang prevention, suppression, prosecution and enforcement”. Sharon Mashburn, Probation Supervisor - Gang Unit, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“Meeting others in this field and learning from their experiences and perspectives”. Yoshada Kwaning, Worcester Youth Center, Worcester, MA.

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Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2018 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2018 Twentieth International NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 6-8, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2018 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2018 some 46.2 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 53.8 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2018 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 98.9 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2018 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2018 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 62.4 percent of those attending the 2018 conference did so for the first time. In other words, just over a third (some 37.6 percent) of those who attended the 2018 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2018 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 84.2 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2018 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the NGCRC’s 22nd International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 94.6 percent of those who attended the 2018 conference indicated that they want to attend the next conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2018 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 96.0 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2018 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 94.0 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2018 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 65.4 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 8.21 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that over half of those who attended, or 55.3 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

OVER A THIRD DID FIELD TRAINING OR BALLGAME

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you go on any of the tours, ballgames, or ride-a-longs”? Some 44.4 percent of the attendees, over a third, indicated that in fact they had in face went on a tour, or attended an NGCRC sponsored ballgame event, or a ride-along.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 8.87 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support.

NGCRC GUESTS OFTEN BRING ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS WITH THEM

The NGCRC promises a “family friendly” environment for its conference participants and provided some special features in this regard (e.g., Family ID cards allowing them to take advantage of discounts at restaurants, etc in the area). The evaluation form asked “Did you bring other family members to Chicago this visit?” and the results indicated that 9.6 percent brought one or more other family members with to the conference. There was even a separate question asking attendees to “rate” the hotel, and they gave it very high marks, a mean score of 8.91 on a zero to ten rating scale is a very high level of satisfaction.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2018 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (59.5%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 33.6 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 93.1 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.51 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference the 2018 attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2018 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

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Quotes from Those Who Attended the NGCRC's 2018 (Aug. 6-8, 2018) International Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago.

“I appreciated the level of expertise and the variety of backgrounds of the presenters (law enforcement, academics, faith based, social services etc.) The presenters were well prepared & professional in their presentations.” Rev. Clifford Parks, Peoria, IL.

“Best conference I attended all year. I would give up every other conference every year to guarantee I can come to this one. Very informative, interesting, and relatable to my job.” Bobbi Kelso, Senior Supervisor, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“This conference was spectacular. The sheer amount of individuals, all gathered in one place for the purpose of understanding gang-related issues involved in law enforcement investigations was, and is inspiring.” Jennifer Marie Torp, Marietta Police Department, Marietta, GA.

“This by far is the best gang and networking conference that I have been to. I’ve instructed gang awareness for over 15 years, I learn something every time I attend. The relationships are one of the best things also about the conference, see you next year” Roger L. Rice Jr., Department of Juvenile Services, Parkville, MD.

“The level of experience and knowledge of speakers was off the charts. I wish I could’ve gone to all classes offered, I just kept wanting more. Thank you for the opportunity to be here and expand my knowledge!” Jennifer De Mey, Probation Officer, Colorado Springs, CO.

“This is the best training conference I have ever attended in my 21 years in this profession. Great instructors, great class choices, great people!!” Heather Pickett, Classification Sergeant, Sherburne County Jail, Elk River, MN.

“Excellent presenters and coursers. Some of the best training a gang investigator can attend. Kimball Murdock is one of the best presenters here.” Stephen Stollar, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Carrollton, GA.

“The experience of presenters, the general diversity of the topics, facilitation of re-invigorating people who may be getting jaded about the topics given the # of years they’ve been doing the work” Christine Washburn, Chief Trial Deputy District Attorney, Denver District Attorney’s Office, Denver, CO.

“There is no one thing that can be identified as the best thing about the conference. Stand outs professionalism of staff, great ambience of training, deep content and well-researched, knowledgeable factors. This is my second time at this conference at it just gets better and better.” Wendell Codrington Wallace, The University of the West Indies, Trinidad.

“It was an amazing first experience. Great speakers, topics and trainees. The ball game was also a great treat. Will remember this forever and can’t wait to use the tools and knowledge I have learned!” Gurpreet Sidhu, Abbotsford Community Awareness Team, Abbotsford, BC, Canada.

“Some of the trainers/presenters (such as Dr. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., James Anderson & Dr. Philip Swift) were outstanding!! They made complex topics very understandable and very applicable to my work. I’d love to take additional classes from them.” Marco Monteblanco, Sr. Juvenile Counselor, Washington County Juvenile Department, Hillsboro, OR.

“Amazing content. Well worth it!” Shawanna Kendrick, Hamilton County District Attorney’s Office, Chattanooga, TN.

“I’m absolutely impressed, satisfied, with this conference. My learning experience was challenged but I was able to see a new perspective about my work.” Flor J. Orellana, UCSF Iwraparound, San Francisco, CA.

The flexibility to choose what topic you would like to attend.” Jeff Koch, Montgomery County Detective Bureau, Norristown, PA.

“There was not one class which did not keep me intrigued” “Session 16 should be used at every conference/police academy FANTASTIC” Simo Reinovich, South St. Paul, MN.

“Great combination of Law Enforcement and Community Facilitators in sharing their roles in gang prevention and intervention.” Pastor Martin Johnson, Peoria, IL.

“Many options on speakers” Brett Keag, Officer, Plainfield Police Department, Plainfield, IL.

“Snacks”, “Location of training”, and “Variety of trainers” Stacy Caudill, DuPage County Probation, Wheaton, IL

“Opportunity to connect with others.” Det. Sandy Avelar, Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver, BC, Canada.

“It was wonderful!”, “Thank you” Tammy Krueger, DuPage County Probation, Wheaton, IL.

“The trainers, material, staff and participants made this conference a top notch experience. I was very pleased with my overall experience at this conference.” Jennifer Safford-Farquharson, Youth and Gang Violence Projects Coordinator, Clark University, Worcester, MA.

“Really enjoy the selection/choices of classes offered” Jill Wells, Department of Juvenile Justice, Deland, FL.

“Network, variety of classes quality of speakers” Stine Lukowski, Project Manager, Koege Kommune, Koege, Denmark.

“Amount of training offered” Kelly W. Roberts, Topeka Public Schools Police, Topeka, KS.

“Learned a lot” Debra Cavanagh, Central Coalition of Good Neighbors, Central Islip, NY.

“I absolutely loved the Christian reception. I felt like I was with family and was proud to share my faith!” and “PS: Thanks for having it at the Westin!” Jenise Lucas, Winnebago County Juvenile Probation, Rockford, IL.

“Presenter topics and the wide array of topics” Steven Braun, Winnebago County Juvenile Probation, Rockford, IL.

“I have been to other gang conferences and I am relieved to finally be to one that discusses recent research and also humanizes work. Best experience I have ever had.” Susie Estrada, Salt Lake City, UT.

“excellent variety to satisfy your interests & professional development. Very good speakers/presenters with diverse backgrounds.” David Payette, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“Very qualified instructors, confirmed some of own thoughts about membership numbers. The connection(s) to terrorism and rise of 2^nd and 3^rd gen. Gangs was eye opening and worrying. Instructors willing to listen to anyone in the room.” Roy Keyes, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Bentonville, AR.

“Variety of topics and presenters was surprisingly awesome.” Clinton Wirtz, Juvenile Justice Trainer, MDHHS, Lansing, MI.

“I was very surprised to learn about juggalos. I had no idea they existed and I did not know much about hybrid gangs. The presenter was also very knowledgeable and passionate about his research.” Maritza Almonte, USPO, U.S. Probation Southern District of NY, New York, NY.

“I learned a multitude of useful information that will be helpful within my future career as a law enforcement officer.” Rebecca Okerstrom, Coon Rapids, MN.

“The size of the conference and layout was great. It allowed for networking opportunities.” Cammeron Woodyard, Camelot Education, Harrisburg, PA.

“The quantity and quality of the conference material and those that lead the courses.”, “Opened my eyes to the true ways of gangs in my world.” Sean T. Dull, Midland County Sheriff’s Office, Midland, MI.

“The conference was a great learning experience. I will be using the knowledge I learned at my organization.” Manpreet Kaur Sarai, Abbotsford Community Awareness Team, Abbotsford, BC, Canada.

“The information and networking is the best thing about this training.” Adam Walser, Midland County Sheriff’s Office, Midland, MI.

“Being able to talk with and get new ideas from other people working in the sam field as me.” Leah Price, Youth Development, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“It was a great experience. Extremely knowledgeable speakers. The staff were efficient and ran everything smoothly. And all were very friendly and helpful.” Susan Coufman, Department of Juvenile Justice, Titusville, FL.

“This conference was very well presented and the flow from session to session was great.” Sean M. Audy, Will County Sheriff’s Office, Joliet, IL.

“The infield training and exposure to actual gang member was prenominal”, “J.R. should be brought to the conference to speak” Ryan Brandon, Intel Analyst, Michigan State Police, Flint, MI.

“Session 113 was the best presentation I attended. He needs a better time slot for next year. The venue was great. Would have loved a ride along with Chicago PD.” Brent Barnhart, Officer, Tulsa Police Department, Tusla, OK.

“I love the variety of topics available and the networking opportunities.” William K. Murdock, Detective, Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta, GA.

“The depth of knowledge and experience of presenters.” Brock Pohl, Northwest Indian Treatment Center, Squaxin Island Tribe, Elma, WA.

“I appreciated Dr. Keiron McConnel he is amazing w/great information.”, “Rosia Julia Garcia Rivera is amazing! She gave the best information.” Sonja Ibabao, Squaxin Island Tribe, NWITC, Elma, WA.

“I always enjoy Carter Smith and Todd Negola. Even I already knew info I like to pay attention to how they present. My style is very similar so I like to pick up new approaches from them. Also, I did pick up 2 or 3 things I plan to use to apply to my gang investigations and prosecutions.” Steven J. Stechschuete, Jr., Lima Police Department, Lima, OH.

“Everyone was friendly. Very helpful.” Nikki Wilkerson, Teachers Aide, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“The facility (Westin) was excellent. Additionally, the wide variety of courses bolstered my knowledge.” Godwin Ogunmefun, USPO, U.S. Probation Southern District of NY, New York, NY.

“Good professional workshops!” Natascha Jensen, Social Worker, Koege Kommune, Koege, Denmark.

“A fantastic opportunity to meet and network with people from different lines of work, all relating to gangs.” Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Edge Hill University, Salford, England.

“The variety of sessions - not only the quantity, but the topic areas covered. For me personally, this is money well spent.” Dr. Andy Bain, University of Mount Union, Alliance, OH.

“Over great experience. I would love to attend future sessions. The presenters displayed a very positive attitude!” Brian Alvarado, U.S. Probation Office, Miami, FL.

“Many different types of individuals are passionate about preventing gangs, etc...” Roberto Garcia, U.S. Probation Office, Miami, FL.

“Certification, Networking, A variety of instructors, Location, and Excellent Moderators” Yvette Corbett-Bride, Central Islip School District, Huntington, NY.

“I was able to hear professionals who have worked/or still working in the field dealing with gangs It was an awesome experience. I have to get my law enforcement, JPPS, and all other agencies in my area to come to the conference next year.” Annjannette Turner, National Youth Advocate Program, Augusta, GA.

“The ability to network was incredible!, Recognizing and honoring religion, law enforcement, vets and interventions was appreciated.” Dr. Michelle Baker, VETTS, Inc, New Haven, CT.

“Variety of relevant topics, excellent presenters and outstanding networking opportunities whichd will enable to return and be more effective in my Community Corrections role. Negola is simply an outstanding presenter!” Jay L. Holmes, Sedgwick County Division of Corrections, Wichita, KS.

“I like how there was a global lens focus on the class I attend because the ideas of gangs is not one country, but effects the whole world” Ga Brina R. Cornelious, St. Cloud, MN.

“As Law Enforcement I value the opportunity to network with non-law enforcement. This allows me to learn and understand their roles in gang suppression and prevention.” Marco A. Ayala, detective, Lawrence Police Department, Lawrence, MA.

“Patron Saints training & Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton” Frederick Gray, Federal Probation and Pretrial Academy, Charleston, SC.

“Al the classes were very informative and very interesting. I always learned something new when attending a class.” Nayarit Romero, Chicago, IL.

“Great experience to use in the future and use for my community. It’s my 2^nd year participating and I have enjoyed both years.” Adilene Bahena, Chicago, IL.

“The ability to have multiple certificate/training options all in one conference.” Shawn O’Brien, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“The networking with multiple different police departments” Stephen Oldenburger, Patrol Officer, Freeport Police Department, Freeport, IL.

“I believe the instructors gave a lot of great knowledge, experience, and procuedures that will be beneficial when dealing with gang activity and gang members.” Kodie Boyer, Noble County Sheriffs Department, Albion, IN.

“I like that the classes were an hour long. It’s nice to have different options. Sometimes being in a class for long periods of time learning about the same thing is over kill or a bit too much.” Chrissy M. Vaughan, Senior Analyst, Indiana HIDTA, Crown Point, IN.

“I learned new information & made potential networking opportunities/connections in the field of gang crime.” Brock Price, Crawford County Prosecutor’s Office, Van Buren, AR.

“Training and ride along w/ Chicago PD Gang Officers.” Sgt. Jeff Morefield, Edmond Police Department, Edmond, OK.

“Again, this is must training from LE/Probation/Parole/Program members. The Gold Standard that no other training program can compare to! Best in the country/world” Robert Fuller, Detective, Retired Denver DA / Charter Comm., Denver, CO.

“Everything was done very well” Jose Ramos Jr, Fresh Start, Worcester, MA.

“I have to say networking is the best part about this training as well as the information.” Damian Alexis, Youth Intervention Aide, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“Networking and taking back new ideas” Jason Pimentel, Department of Juvenile Justice, Ocala, FL.

“The Tour and the presenter @ the tour (JR)” DuVone Mitchell, Fresh Start, Worcester, MA.

“The knowledge shared at the conference allows you to have various insight fro professionals who have many different experiences in the field of gangs. I found the connections and outreach invaluable in moving forward in my career.” Kristi Bender, Probation, Lincoln, NE.

“I met many passionate individuals that will help me better my interactions with my youth.” Jessica Olsen-Hoek, Prevention Director, Youth Enrichment Services, West Islip, NY.

“Every presenter was very knowledgeable. Everyone was approachable and helpful, even during seminars I rated poorly.” Mary Beth Harmon, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Clinic Director, Youth Enrichment Services, West Islip, NY.

“The trainers were very knowledgeable, prepared and presented well.” Audrey P. McGhee, Department of Juvenile Justice, St. Pete., FL.

“The information was awesome, facilitators were very knowledgeable, and the staff was very accommodating.” Kevin A. Perry, City of Knoxville Community Relations Department, Knoxville, TN.

“The fact that there were so many different people from so many different places was so good for me.” Jesse De La Cruz, Fresh Start, Stockton, CA.

“Very Informational” Allen Mitchell, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“The selection of topics and presentations is a great asset to this conference.” Christopher Cavera, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“Numerous training times and options.” Jennifer Siwiecki, U.S. Probation Officer, U.S. Probation Office, St. Louis, MO.

“All The Classes!” Eddie Savage, Task Force Officer - FBI Safe Streets, Waterloo Police Dept., Waterloo, IA.

“Very insightful and we are moving forward to help one another to deal with the epidemic of gangs” William Rodriguez, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“I was treated well, was able to network with agencies from different states.” Stephanie Quezada, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“Being able to network” Osiris Gomez, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“Everything” Dr. John Rodriguez, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX.

“I learned a lot and learned new ideas that will help me in policing” Trevis Coleman, Worcester Police Department, Worcester, MA.

“Having people from all over is great” Brendon Tivnan, Worcester Police Department, Worcester, MA.

“Every workshop was extremely informative, valuable and educational” Carolyn Baez, Director of Programs, Youth Enrichment Services, West Islip, NY.

“The amount of classes offered” Evan Wigley, Corrections Officer/Gang Unit, Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Chicago was a great city to hold the conference.” Matthew “Korey” Milo, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“The speakers here were very knowledgeable and networking opportunities were tremendous. I was especially impressed with all the speakers who presented on international gang issues.” Anthony Franks, Assistant United States Attorney, St. Louis, MO.

“Easy to get to classes, variety of topics.” Natalie Karpac, United States Probation Officer, Detroit, MI.

“Number of training course options” Steve Young, Detective, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“There were several great presentation this week. I specifically liked the presentations by Todd Negola! Very informative and interesting presenters.” Jerred Adkins, Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center, Columbus, OH.

“Another year of great information, instructors and networking opportunities.” Jeff Caskey, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, DesMoines, IA.

“Several presenters were extremely dynamic and did a great job. I really enjoyed the wide variety of courses, subjects, and presenters. The wide variety gave the opportunity to learn things that I may not have gotten at a different conference.” Thomas L. Mangan, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“A lot of good instructors with varied backgrounds/experience” Sean Johnston, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“Amount of Classes” Aaron Watkins, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“The friendly environment and solid content” Ryan Clancy, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the different classes that I was able to pick out to attend. The instructors were on mark and they were very knowledgeable about their subject matter.” Wheeler Brent Patterson, Criminal Investigator, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Huntsville, AL.

“Everything was great” Monica Lofton, City of Dayton Human Relations Council, Dayton, OH.

“Always appreciate the opportunity to meet new gang instructors” Thomas Strausborger, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The really good information, and getting to network with other people who do what you are doing” Lorenzo Streeter, Youth Intervention Specialist, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“Excellent Presentations, Great Networking, The NGCRC Staff Rocks!” Chris Przemieniecki, West Chester University, West Chester, PA.

“Conference was a good mix of law enforcement and academia. Lots of classes to chose from and hotel is a great location.” Peggy Tobin Trice, ATF/Department of Justice, Tulsa, OK.

“I liked the variety of classes that were offered.” Patrick Carley, Danville Police Department, Danville, IL.

“Schedule Flexibility” Miguel Martinez Jr., Mount Prospect Police Department, Mt. Prospect, IL.

“Location and speakers are amazing and interacted with listeners.” Dwayne Melton, State Training School, Eldora, IA.

“The activities provided such as ballgames.” Christopher P. Carter, Quad Cities Gang Task Force (FBI), Moline, IL.

“The networking opportunity and open discussions with like-minded professionals.” Jewel N. Jones, Gang Intervention Administrator, Ohio Department of Youth Services, Cleveland, OH.

“Great Presenters, Easy to Guide Through Classes” Rich Zapf, Officer, Belvidere Police Department, Belvidere, IL.

“Class flexibility” Jason Nemerow, Mount Prospect Police Department, Mt. Prospect, IL.

“The speakers were very knowledgeable on what they were teaching.” Richard Palocsik, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Augusta, GA.

“Lots of great choices” Travis Wolfe, Deputy, Macon County Sheriff’s Office, Decatur, IL.

“Well organized with excellent instructors” Frank Reznik, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Des Moines, IA.

“I liked having numerous choices to choose from” Bart M. Hickey, Deputy Macon County Sheriff’s Office, Decatur, IL.

“Cabrini Green was an amazing experience. As a gang investigator & someone who has studied history of gangs for years, this was great being able to see this legendary piece of gang history.” Adam Green, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, August, GA.

“I enjoyed the, come as you go approach, basically pick the Trainings you’re interested in & just go.” Eric Turton, DuPage County Adult Probation, Wheaton, IL.

“Really enjoy visiting Chicago. Great to netowrk and share experiences with other similarly situated professionals from other jurisdictions. Also enjoyed the casual format that allows participants to move about at their own pace.” Christopher Huband, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“Very Informational, the networking opportunities were Awesome!” Veronica L. Williams, Houston, TX.

“Very Awesome & met a lot of other gang intervention specialist” Estevan Medina, Second Chance Through Faith, Colorado Springs, CO.

“The classes are all good and being able to network with people that have same passion for what they do” John Reyes, Second Chance Through Faith, Colorado Springs, CO.

“Great presenters! I Love the energy of the presenters and attending the participants” Ruben Marquez, UCSF Iwraparound, San Francisco, CA.

“Well Organized, Snacks, thank you, Diverse presenters” Yvonne Woodard, Department of Juvenile Justice, Tallahassee, FL.

“Number of sessions and diversity of Instructors” Nicholas W. Hughett, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

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Consistent Positive Feedback From Evaluations Over the Years: The Quotes from Persons Who Attended the 2017 NGCRC Conference.

The formal evaluation included mostly quantitative measurements as reflected in the results from the statistical calculations. But there is also a qualitative dimension to the evaluation because the same evaluation form included this question: "What is the best thing you can say about your experience at this training conference? (PRINT: we do appreciate hearing good news, so describe anything you really liked about the conference)".

“Best gang conference I have ever attended. You are able to network with other gang specialists from around the world and given plenty of material to assist you when you get back home to assist you in your job duties.” Sgt. Kevin White, DeKalb County Police Dept., Tucker, GA.

“Conference was well-planned and organized. Networking options were outstanding. Outstanding conference with an abundant number of sessions/classes- only regret not being able to attend more sessions-will have to come back in following years.” Robin Pascoe, Wilmington Police Department, Wilmington, NC.

“All presenters were very knowledgeable, professional. Conference clearly designed to provide the best possible experience for the attendees. Loved the huge variety of classes and flexible scheduling.” Christopher Huband, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“This is absolutely the best conference that I have been to bar none, the staff, volunteers were very accommodating, professional and the veteran + Law Enforcement reception were awesome, this is my third year being a presenter and my fourth year here, contacts and friends that I have made can’t be understated, the best ever.” Roger L. Rice, Jr., Training Resource Manager, Department of Juvenile Services, Parkville, MD.

“Gangs are finally being recognized in my community. I have so much great information to take back for training and new programming.” Geneva K. Smith, NECIC, Mansfield, OH.

“The amount of diversity in agencies represented in the presenters. Being able to hear from so many different agencies and presenters was educational in the most exceptional way. The ability to build networking opportunities nationwide...impressive.” Rebekah K. Pearson, Family Court of Jefferson County, Birmingham, AL.

“The amount of different training which covered a diverse number of topics that are valuable to different law enforcement agencies. I really took a lot away from the verbal de-escalation training.” Captain Vincent Fuca, New York City Department of Corrections, East Elmhurst, NY.

“This conference provided a variety of topics & information which will assist in future investigations. The conference provided a great atmosphere to absorb the information.” Det. Robert Beck, Detective Constable, Hamilton Police Service, Ontario, Canada.

“The majority of presenters INCREDIBLE from the content to presentation/delivery. I feel like I really learned a lot in a short period of time. It was a very worthwhile experience.” Crystal Grace Wilson, Palatine, IL.

“As a first timer, this was a great, knowledgeable experience. The entire conference was well organized and ran super smoothly-from an attendee’s perspective. This conference provided numerous opportunities to make network connections.” Allison Humes, DeKalb, IL.

“One of the best educational sessions I have ever been to. Love the scope of topics” Ryan Clancy, Chicago, IL.

“There are a lot of different classes to attend and you are not mandated to only go to certain classes. Allows people to attend classes of interest.” Dennis Stankiewicz Jr., DPSES, Intelligence & Investigative Division, Savage, MD.

“I personally enjoyed experiencing networking and hearing how other states/departments are on the same page. NGCRC is a great organization and would recommend this training in the future.” Paul Reynolds, City of Marietta Police, Marietta, GA.

“The information provided throughout the conference is relevant and up to date. I picked up some fresh ideas as to how to approach gang issues in my area.” Lt. Kenneth Winklepleck, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“Getting to see first hand the process other investigators go through to reach the same goal, conviction/prosecution.” Evan D. Waldrep, Marietta Police Department, Marietta, GA.

“Every presenter was awesome, excellent speakers, and very interactive with the class. They were extremely knowledgeable in their field of expertise. I learned so very much. I also met some awesome people. The panel discussion w/gang members was awesome and those two young men were inspiring-courageouss.” “Thank you so much!” Robin Marsh, FBI CJIS Division, Clarksburg, WV.

“This was my first time at a gang conference. I’m from Montana and I have received great information to bring back to my state.” “Thank you.” Amy Peters, Detention Officer, Lewis and Clark County Sheriffs Office, Helena, MT.

“Variety of topics under one roof.” Antonio J. Cruz, Director, New York City Department of Corrections, East Elmhurst, NY.

“This was my first time attending a gang conference. Most impressed with the quantity of topics covered and the quality of the presentations. I will not only attend next year but will also encourage others to attend as well. Awesome conference!!” D. Terry Hassell, Probation Officer / Case Manager, Bermuda Government, Pembroke, Bermuda.

“Great info! Diverse info! Thanks!!! Learned A Lot and had a great time in Chicago.” Angel Ross-Taylor, Richland County Prosecutor’s Office, Mansfield, OH.

“Informative, variety of class/speakers.” “Been in the criminal justice field over 12 years and attended tons of conferences. By far the best conference I’ve ever attended.” Bobbi Kelso, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“Choices for classes.” Tommy Jewell, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“Wonderful networking opportunity. The sharing of ideas and strategies was extremely helpful. You can get a good idea the problem we face with violent groups across the U.S. and abroad with possible ways to address the issue for your city or state. Also great location nice meeting spaces and content. Enjoyed the hotel and the service walking distance everything, awesome.” Mario T. Martin, City of Columbus Recreation & Parks, Columbus, OH.

“The networking/with the wide variety of people and experience.” Sgt. Jason A. Brock, Bradley County Sheriff’s Department, Cleveland, TN.

“Tons of variety.” Samantha L. Thompson, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Chicago, IL.

“Great classes and teachers.” Matthew Messer, PCAT Officer, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“Learning about upcoming trends.” Frank Ardino, U.S. Probation Office, Miami, FL.

“The well rounded coverage of different parts of the gang problem.” Brian Mooney, Orange Police Department, Orange, NJ.

“Great learning opportunity lots of Knowledge being presented.” Sgt. Kimball Mason Hottell, Steuben County Sheriffs Office, Angola, IN.

“There are so many classes to pick from. With a pre-made itinerary for myself I was able to navigate throughout the classes with ease.” Jason D. Hudson, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Learning different methods that are commonly used for gang intervention around the country. Hopefully we be able utilize these in our city.” Jamie Hockstetler, Goshen Police Department, Goshen, IN.

“Great chance to meet and network with others.” Det. Chris Geoghegan, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Well organized!” Frank Reznik, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Des Moines, IA.

“Patience is the key to a successful event and a great desire to learn! All the instructors was very knowledgeable of their material. Thanks for “Interviewing the Criminal Mind” taught by Todd D. Negola.” Lena A. Shepherd, Alabama Department of Corrections, Montgomery, AL.

“Very informative presenters. Always look forward to coming back the next year. NGCRC staff do their best to make for a great training experience.” Christopher Calhoun, Jail Deputy, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Jail Division, Noblesville, IN.

“Enjoyed the psychology-based classes, as well as the classes focused on challenges in prosecuting gang cases.” Emily Petro, Assistant District Attorney General, 10^th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Cleveland, TN.

“All of the options for classes.” Adam M. Alikhan, Vermilion County State’s Attorney’s Office, Danville, IL.

“Some great classes, large variety of topics.” Brian Catanzarite, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, Pittsburgh, PA.

“Different class choices, almost too many options.” Peter Roberge, Worcester Police Department, Worcester, MA.

“Excellent and very diverse information concerning all levels of gangs. The realization that gangsterism is more socio-economic than racial. Educating and giving our youth the tools to survive lessens the chance of gang involvement.” Michael A. Weeks, Member of Parliament, Bermuda.

“The (number & variety) of classes to choose from.” Keith Baker, Fairfax County Police Department, Fairfax, VA.

“Lots of class options.” Jimmy Ward, Classification Officer, Floyd County Sheriffs Department, New Albany, IN.

“Always great training.” “Third time to attend and learn something every time.” Kelly Roberts, Topeka Public Schools Police, Topeka, KS.

“I attended several of the sessions lead by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., I thought his presentations and knowledge of material were superior”. Lt. Rodney D. Jackson, Detroit Police Department, Detroit, MI.

“Networking with other jurisdictions.” Ramon Robertson, Fairfax County Police Department, Fairfax, VA.

“I really like the format, pick the classes you’re interested in, plus the wide variety of topics. Very well organized. Great Job!” Paul Lane, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Great motorcycle class” Det. Fiorella Soto, DeKalb County Police Department, Tucker, GA.

“The best thing I can say about this conference is the opportunity to network with all the other gang specialists across the country.” Tyler J. McDowell, Franklin County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, OH.

“The many options of classes available.” David Roman, DPSES - Intelligence & Investigative Division, Savage, MD.

“This was my second year and the information keeps getting better.” Sgt. Jeff Caskey, Polk County Sheriffs Office, Des Moines, IA.

“Great course selection, excellent instructors.” Sgt. Brian Hill, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“I appreciate the wide range of classes offered and the experience that is brought to the table by the instructors. Networking is huge and maybe even would like to see a round robin discussion session with what is going on locally with each attendee. There might be a question and answer session with the instructors that are presenting.” Sgt. Jesse W. Hambrick, Douglas County Sheriffs Office, Douglasville, GA

“High quality presentations.” “Diversity in networking is awesome.” Stine Lukowski, Special Advisor, Koege Kommune, Denmark.

“Having instructors and attendees from all over and from every different aspect of criminal justice.” Tobias Rogerson, Macomb, IL.

“This is one of the best opportunities to network with gang specialists throughout the U.S. and internationally.” Christopher L. Mallette, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“Informative, great place to network.” James A. Buccellato, Ph.D., Lecturer, Northern Arizona University, Dept. Of Criminology, Flagstaff, AZ.

“The range of classes/speakers/times was great. The presenters really knew their subject matter and cared that we learned something. The people running the conference were super helpful! Chicago is amazing.” Jennifer Welch, Assistant District Attorney, Knox County District Attorney’s Office, Knoxville, TN.

“The networking experience and opportunity to share knowledge is the reason I attend the NGCRC Conference.” Kristopher Hansgen, Investigator, TCF Bank, Plymouth, MN.

“As always the NGCRC sets the bar at the highest level for the education/research of gangs/gang prosecution/gang investigation.” “Brings the best and the brightest in the field together!” Robert Fuller, Investigator, Denver District Attorney’s Office, Metro Gang Task Force, Denver, CO.

“My prosecution team partner and I received extremely valuable information on constructing a gang presentation from the Battlecreek MI lecturers and Michael Bickis of the Stark County Pros Office in Canton Ohio who were willing to share their information in document form. A fantastic help!” Anne Crater, Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, Mays Landing, NJ.

“Great information, knowledgeable presenters, and good networking opportunities got to brainstorm some issues with prosecutors from 5 states” Michael Bickis, Stark County Prosecutor’s Office, Canton, OH.

“Great training, friend networking.” Mark Burchell, Federal Probation, U.S. District Court, Detroit, MI.

“This was a very informative training conference & I learned so much! Hurry up NGCRC Conference 2018!!” Kate Schwendener, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Chicago, IL.

“The conference provided good classes that allowed our unit to see the pro’s & con’s of other units that are in the same situation we are.” Det. Chad Taylor, Carrollton Police Department, Carrollton, GA.

“The Cabrini Green Tour was better than expected. Hearing from ex-gang members was informational.” Jason Caster, Wyoming MI DPS, Wyoming, MI.

“The conference instructors stay very current with the latest changes in gang operations and activities.” Ben Durian, Wyoming MI DPS, Wyoming, MI.

“The presenters are brilliant and well read on the subject matter.” Jared Grandy, City of Dayton Human Relations Council, Dayton, OH.

“Meeting others from all over, doing the same thing and learning from them.” Tommy Steele, SRO, Goshen Police Department, Goshen, IN.

“I learned several new things about gang activity and thought processes.” Trent Howard, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“Meeting other LEO’s from different states and agencies.” James Mellow, Gwinnett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“Great networking opportunities. Diversity of material helped to expand my knowledge of gangs.” William Kimball Murdock, Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta, GA.

“Networking.” William Young, Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“The variety of classes.” Arthur Vasquez, Senior Lecturer, Criminology & Criminal Justice Department, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX.

“I really enjoyed the variety of the presentations and the networking.” Brandi Fowler, Intelligence Analyst, FBI Metro Gang Task Force, Denver, CO.

“Great support staff.” Felix Mickens, Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“Networking, very informational.” Amy Britain, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.

“The overwhelming variety of courses offered. I very much enjoyed the Chicago experience such as the area where we were (hotel, area of Chicago). Seeing a game at Wrigley was also worth writing home about. This conference was very well organized and at times there were so many good choices on classes, it made it hard to pick.” Caleb Ferren, Fort Worth Police Department, Fort Worth, TX.

“The vast offering of options, sessions, and speakers was amazing. It was great to hear so many perspectives.” Gabriel Mendoza, Assistant District Attorney, Queens County District Attorneys Office, Kew Gardens, NY.

“Lots of unique presentations and differing opinions/perspectives among students.” Det. Nick Valente, Cleveland Metro Parks Ranger Department, Fairview, OH.

“I loved the city and the area of the city several of the classes provided exactly the type of information I need to prosecute gang members in 2017.” Dallas Scott III, 10^th Judicial District Attorney’s Office4, Cleveland, TN.

“Great, a wonderful experience. Made a lot of new friends.” Det. Kobe Saffe, Hamilton Police Service, Ontario, Canada.

“I always learn a lot and meet great people when I come to this training. What I like best is the variety of insights that I come away with. All regions of the country, as well as different agencies and roles within the community and justice system are represented. This all underscores how diverse gangs are and how important it is for us to use multifaceted approaches when responding to them. Thanks!” James Sutton, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY.

“The convenience of the location of the conference as well as room assignments. The volunteers were very accommodating and generous. Enjoyed the wide variety of course options.” Jennifer Smith, Elkhart County Sheriffs Department, Elkhart, IN.

“The ability to come and go from different sessions at the same time slot. The large selection of courses to choose.” Detective Constable Shawn O’Brien, London Police Service, Ontario, Canada.

“Classes were extremely informative.” Nicholas Minder, Concord Community Schools Police Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Many choices in sessions to attend.” William Talley, Corrections Officer, Floyd County Sheriffs Department, New Albany, IN.

“The overall class variety and ability to go to classes not in your “track.” There was an expansive amount of knowledge coming together in one conference.” Heather Becker, Probation Officer, Denver, CO.

“Variety and level of expertise.” Derek Helmke, Ontario Provincial Police, Orillia, Ontario, Canada.

“I learned a ton and can apply it to my work.” Morgan Miller, Homer Glen, IL.

“A lot of useful information. Provided great ideas and topics for research projects.” Keona Morris, Chicago, IL.

“Great Speakers!” Veienice Sandoval, Macomb, IL.

“Networking and meeting different criminal justice personnel.” Gurpreet Chahal, Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Networking. I’ve met so many people.” Evan Wigley, Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Networking was key for me. I also appreciated the presenters sitting in on other presentations.” Christine Lynde, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Lees Summit, MO.

“Lots of great information.” Christopher J Kincaid, Midwest HIDTA, Kansas City, MO.

“The quality of Information. Everybody was very helpful.” Keyon Ashe, NCDPS - Governors Crime Commission, Raleigh, NC.

“The number of choices in different topics and all the speakers were really into what they were speaking about.” Stephen Oldenburger, Freeport Police Department, Freeport, IL.

“The experience showed a variety of aspects of gangs origin and evolution from different prospective.” Det. Clarence Muhammad, Memphis Police Department, Multiagency Gang Unit, Memphis, TN.

“All the material is cutting-edge and relevant. This is an extremely important conference.” Dr. Renee Figaro, Lecturer, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad, West Indies.

“The information given while attending the training, was very beneficial! I would highly recommend the training.” Derek L. Weldy, Corrections Corporal, Elkhart County Sheriffs Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Very informative and lots of information obtained and learned.” Joshua Qualls, Corrections Officer, Midland County Sheriffs Office, Midland, MI.

“Networking, good information for both students and professionals.” Nathaniel Mason, Saint Cloud, MN.

“Location, convenience, depth of presentations, extremely professional operation.” Eddie Johnson, Deputy Chief of Administration, Director of Research and Planning, Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Phoenix, AZ.

“The session on gang involvement in social justice movements was great. The tour to Cabrini Green was also great, they should offer another tour.” Greta Aldridge, Denver Pretrial Services, Denver, CO.

“The presenters have an amazing amount of knowledge and experience.” James V. Sloan, 48^th Circuit Court of Michigan, Allegan, MI.

“A lot of applicable knowledge.” Benjamin Schreur, 48^th Circuit Court of Michigan, Allegan, MI.

“I’ve met with some great presenters and also enjoyed making connections with them to possibly work with them in the future.” Jesus Tampa, Chicago, IL.

“The trainers are the best in the their field and really have a lot of knowledge to pass on.” Nathan Breeze, Matoon, IL.

“Got to meet many different people from around the world. Also had the chance to get to know them and learn about their job.” Adilene Bahena, Chicago, IL.

“The number of class options.” Steve A. Young, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“I like having all the different classes to choose from.” Shane Turley, Madison County District Attorney’s Office, Huntsville, AL.

“Loved networking w others from different professions-we are all about the same purpose-to help/serve.” Marsha Baird, Gang Prevention Coordinator, Provo City School District, Provo, UT.

“The information was relevant. I thought it addressed trends we may need to prepare for with gangs. Well organized conference and I would plan to attend for many years.” Ashton Adank, Kasson, MN.

“The Christian Reception was very good. It definitely covered the problem and an important part of the equation for a solution.” Sgt. Samuel D. Byrd, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus, OH.

“Networking! Also learned new mediation tactics.” Andre Davis, Community for New Direction, Columbus, OH.

“Networking.” Monica D Lofton, City of Dayton Human Relations Council, Dayton, OH.

“Everybody involved with NGCRC was great! Being able to choose our training path was awesome!” Roy Johnson, Gang Intelligence Deputy, Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department, Modesto, CA.

“Meeting new dept. and hearing how they work with gang members. Being part of a bigger family in this line of work.” Johnny Santos, Case Manager, Gang Reduction Initiative of Denver, Denver, CO.

“Meeting new people and the presenters were great.” Jessica Dugan, Case Manager, Community for New Direction, Columbus, OH.

“Meeting new people! Networking! Great conference to meet new people and get new ideas.” Brian Yazzie, Provo City School District, Provo, UT.

“Always a blast to see familiar faces, share ideas, network and meet new acquaintances.” “Being a presenter brings great joy to share with my colleagues foreign and domestic.” William Campbell, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, Elizabethtown, KY.

“Great Staff. This was a great opportunity to see what gang problems other communities across the country are facing and how they are choosing to combat them.” Inv. Jason E. Webb, Investigator, Oxford Police Department, Oxford, AL.

“Networking was a great experience and the staff provided a great experience.” Jermal Chambers, School Resource Officer, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, Athens, GA.

“This is the leading Gang (School) conference in my experiences. I’ve attended many and this one is above all others in info, knowledge, variety and trends.” Eddie Savage, Waterloo Police FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Waterloo, IA.

“Nice hotel, well organized, and a wide variety of learning topics.” Patrick J. Carley, Danville Police Department, Danville, IL.

“Meeting so many great people and learning so much.” Derrick L Showell, Community for New Direction, Columbus, OH.

“The classes were all great with very good info.” Brad Blackwell, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“Connecting with people who “walk the talk”!” Gangs signs of sign language, excellent presenter. Good new blood.” Doris D Yates, California State University - East Bay, Hayward, CA.

“There were great opportunities for networking and collaboration.” Jewel N. Jones, Juvenile Parole Officer, Cleveland, OH.

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Want a Short Six Page "Brochure Version" of What is in This Lengthy File?

Some people like all the details, that is provided in this file (www.ngcrc.com/2020.conference.html). Others need something "short and sweet" to attach to a travel request. We have that too: it is the six page basic "Brochure Version" of this lengthy and detailed conference file. It also includes a registration form and cost information.

Click here for the Six Page Brochure Version in PDF Format.

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Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2017 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2017 Twentieth International NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 7-9, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2017 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2017 some 42.0 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 58.0 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2017 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 99.0 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2017 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2017 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 74.4 percent of those attending the 2017 conference did so for the first time. In other words, about a fourth (some 25.6 percent) of those who attended the 2017 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2017 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 84.8 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2017 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the NGCRC's 21st International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 92.6 percent of those who attended the 2017 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2018 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2017 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 95.9 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2017 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 93.8 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2017 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 69.2 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 7.73 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that over half of those who attended, or 65.1 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

OVER A THIRD DID FIELD TRAINING OR BALLGAME

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you go on any of the tours, ballgames, or ride-a-longs”? Some 46.1 percent of the attendees, over a third, indicated that in fact they had in face went on a tour, or attended an NGCRC sponsored ballgame event, or a ride-along.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 8.85 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support.

NGCRC GUESTS OFTEN BRING ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS WITH THEM

The NGCRC promises a “family friendly” environment for its conference participants and provided some special features in this regard (e.g., Family ID cards allowing them to take advantage of discounts at restaurants, etc in the area). The evaluation form asked “Did you bring other family members to Chicago this visit?” and the results indicated that 6.7 percent brought one or more other family members with to the conference. There was even a separate question asking attendees to “rate” the hotel, and they gave it very high marks, a mean score of 8.73 on a zero to ten rating scale is a very high level of satisfaction.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2017 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (58.8%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 35.7 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 94.6 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.53 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2017 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

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Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2016 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2016 Nineteenth International NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 8-10, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2016 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2016 some 37.35 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 62.7 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2016 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 99.4 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2016 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2016 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 62.2 percent of those attending the 2016 conference did so for the first time. In other words, over a third (some 37.8 percent) of those who attended the 2016 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2016 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 84.0 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2016 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the NGCRC 19^th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 94.6 percent of those who attended the 2016 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2016 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2016 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 99.6 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2016 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 95.6 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2016 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 68.4 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 7.55 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that over half of those who attended, or 56.7 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

OVER A THIRD DID FIELD TRAINING OR BALLGAME

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you go on any of the tours, ballgames, or ride-a-longs”? Some 44.3 percent of the attendees, over a third, indicated that in fact they had in face went on a tour, or attended an NGCRC sponsored ballgame event, or a ride-along.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 9.00 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support.

NGCRC GUESTS OFTEN BRING ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS WITH THEM

The NGCRC promises a “family friendly” environment for its conference participants and provided some special features in this regard (e.g., Family ID cards allowing them to take advantage of discounts at restaurants, etc in the area). The evaluation form asked “Did you bring other family members to Chicago this visit?” and the results indicated that 10 percent brought one or more other family members with to the conference. There was even a separate question asking attendees to “rate” the hotel, and they gave it very high marks, a mean score of 8.77 on a zero to ten rating scale is a very high level of satisfaction.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2016 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (65%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 29.6 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 94.7 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.59 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2016 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

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Comments from those who attended the 2016 NGCRC Training Conference in Chicago:

SAMPLE COMMENTS FROM 2016 ATTENDEES:

“ ‘Networking’ with others was very helpful in gaining intel.”, “Baseball game” and “The variation of classes and the freedom of choosing the sessions I want to attend”. Captain Loretta D. Wells, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Omaha, NE.

“I have been to the conference 4 times over the last 5 years and there has been new material presented each year.” Crystal Thomas, Evansville Police Department, Evansville, IN.

“I have been to many drug and gang conferences. The NGCRC Conference is, by far, the best conference I have attended. Very few will offer such a wide range of expertise.” Mike O’Brien, F.B.I. Federal Gang Task Force, Moline, IL.

“The overall conference was great! I appreciate how organized everything was. The location was perfect. Most of the presenters appeared to be subject matter experts. This was my first time attending, it will not be my last.” Zaneta P. Simpson, Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office, Charlotte, NC.

“The best part of the conference is you can always find what your looking for from the vast array of instructors. From a basic class to a more extensive approach. This training is still the best in the nation & you will get out of it exactly what you put into it.” Michael Robbins, Adams County Sheriffs Office, Brighton, CO.

“As always 1st class training totally relevant useful information. Best gang training conference in the country, networking heaven!! Thank you Dr Knox and staff, looking forward to next year.” Dominick J. Cicala, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“You have some of the best instructors that I have ever heard and I've taken classes for over 21 years.” Det. Jason Dwight Hudson, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“I have been a gang detective for 9 years and actually learned new things about street gangs and gang culture.” Det. Rigoberto Amaro, Waukegan Police Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Very well organized. Up to date information.” Lt. Kenneth Winklepleck, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“I really like the way classes are setup. You can travel from class to class and go to the ones that interest you the most. Also really enjoyed the variety of topics”. William Noon, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

SAMPLE COMMENTS FROM PREVENTION/INTERVENTION AREA:

“As an educator that works with At-Risk youth I feel as though I am much more informed and prepared to address gang members/activity. I feel as though all of my presenters were experts and will to help me understand my students.” Jennifer Shimon, teacher, Kenosha Unified School District, Kenosha, WI.

“Variety of option in courses to choose from. Hotel was great environment for conference & centrally located. Opportunity to network w/ people across the nation & world.” Chevist Johnson, S.O.E. Kingdom, Sacramento, CA.

“Networking and all the amazing information from the speakers.” Edgar Caceres, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“The presenters are always very professional and every year I leave the conference with a new level of expertise.” Christopher L. Mallette, Executive Director, Chicago Violence Prevention Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“Out of all the conferences that I attend, this organization has been the most effective. The topics & presenters have inspired me to do more w/ at risk youth”. Leonard D. Hunt, Cincinnati Job Corps, Cincinnati, OH.

“All instructors and classes were great.” John Reyes, Second Chance Through Faith, Colorado Springs, CO.

“The vast amount of information and knowledge in the courses, I wish I could have done more. My dept. could not find the money for this conference. I paid my own way and I will do it again.” Edward Savage, Shelby County Schools, Project Prevent, Memphis, TN.

“Meeting everyone was the best experience. Being able to network and get contacts was an experience I will not forget”. Osiris Gomez, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“I learned some very valuable information to use when I get back to my community.” Lorenzo Lawson, Youth Empowerment Zone, Columbia, MO.

“Great way to network and obtain new ideas and programs to try.” Kelly W. Roberts, Topeka Public Schools Police, Topeka, KS.

“The conference offered a large buffet of trainings with subject matter experts.” Lonnie L. Hall, Gary Job Corps Center, San Marcos, TX.

“Lots of classes to pick from”, “Lots of people to network with”, “2^nd time attending.” and “Always learn something and find the sessions to be full of information.” Scott Hatch, Penobscot Job Corps, Bangor, ME.

“There was so much valuable information that can be learned and applied in so many situations.” Steven Cochran, Penobscot Job Corps, Bangor, ME.

SAMPLE COMMENTS FROM CORRECTIONS AREA:

“The presenter(s)s were excellent”. John Douglas “A-Train" Atkinsson, Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center, Milwaukee, WI.

“I’ve been coming to this conference since 2009! I’ve met some great people and have been afforded the opportunity to be a presenter, networking and collaborating with like minded professionals. Always looking forward to learning more and doing more for Gang Research and the NGCRC! Can’t wait until next year.” William A. Campbell, Training Academy Coordinator, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice - Training Center, Elizabethtown, KY.

“This conference provides opportunity to network and collaborate with other presenters in establishment of purposeful and meaningful relationships.” Jewel N. Jones, STG-Gang Coordinator, Ohio Department of Youth Services, Cleveland, OH.

“Very informative, instructors were very knowledgeable, information was easy to understand.” Jeff Caskey, detention supervisor, Polk County Sheriffs Office, Des Moines, IA.

“The variety and quality of classes and speakers”. Michael Artmann, Jail Intelligence Deputy, Hennepin County Sheriffs Office, Minneapolis, MN.

“The ability to complete the track to your own needs”, “Thanks” and “Love the experience”. Captain Matilda Serna, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Tecumseh, NE.

“Eye opening - work being done by LEO & Corrections to research & communicate what is happening”. Captain James Foster, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Lincoln, NE.

“Breakfast & Snacks!”, “The speakers are very smart & interactive!”, “The chairs w/cushions on them.”, “Carter F Smith, Dr. Simon Harding, Todd D. Negola & Deepa Patel are fantastic, very smart, intelligent, funny, interactive and keep the presentation entertaining.” and “Thank you to them.” Natalya Kandakova, Minnesota Department of Corrections, Burnsville, MN.

“Great speakers”. Clint LaFar, Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center, Peoria, IL.

“I have been teaching and working with juveniles for 5 years and I learned more about these gang culture, how to better work with them, and how the gangs are evolving in the last 3 days than my 5 previous years”. Timothy E. Cech, Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center, Peoria, IL.

“Presentation material.” Captain Shawn Freese, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Lincoln, NE.

COMMENTS FROM PROSECUTION AREA:

“Network; great selection of classes; I learned a lot!”. Lindsey Moreland, Assistant District Attorney, Nashville, TN

“Opening ceremony is a fantastic start, with so many tracks it's the only event that is open to everyone being together.” Elizabeth Caratini Buerger, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Palatine, IL.

“I liked the format (cafeteria style course selection)”. Crystal Uhe, Madison County State’s Attorneys office, Edwardsville, IL.

“The various professionals that were available to speak - from educators to attorneys, investigators, and parole|probation officers. To hear the different perspectives was extremely valuable. The presentation on Tactical Interviewing was AMAZING! By far the most interesting and helpful presentation throughout the course.” Merry M. Saunders, Athens County Prosecuting Attorneys Office, Athens, OH.

“Opportunity network, speakers willing to discuss class outside of session. Location|hotel & price were great. The opportunity to meet w/ experts & individuals heavily versed in the world of gangs provides for a priceless opportunity to learn & grow as a prosecutor.” Kristi Wilson, Assistant District Attorney, Douglas County District Attorneys Office, Douglasville, GA.

“The classes being non-regimented were nice having different lengths starting at different times and no breaks in between made the day far more seamless.” Kyle Aber, District Attorneys Office, Pueblo, CO.

COMMENTS FROM PROBATION/PAROLE/AFTERCARE AREA:

“Networking, Topic discussion”. Derrick Parker, Aftercare Specialist, Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, Chicago, IL.

“My best part of this conference was receiving one of the spirit awards. I can only imagine all the hard work that Mr. Knox and his staff puts into this training and to take the time to learn what certain people are doing in this field and then recognizing them is such an honor. The knowledge I gained from this training is something I am excited to take back to my team and share to move forward on our Gang Court and addressing gang issues.” Kelly Hobbs, Probation Officer, Metro Juvenile Court, Nashville, TN.

“Some great new sessions”. Kevin Kreuser, Cook County Juvenile Probation, Chicago, IL.

“The quality & knowledge of the trainers was exceptional. Additionally, everyone was very open|available to answer questions afterwards.” Matt Mills, juvenile probation officer, DeKalb County Court Services, Sycamore, IL.

“Great Overall Speakers.” Luis Lopez, Cook County Juvenile Court, Chicago, IL.

“I learned new & useful information.” Sara J. Mentore, Supervisory U.S. Probation Officer, U.S. Office of Probation & Pretrial Services, Gulf Port, MS.

“The information that I learned increased my knowledge of gangs”. Valencia E. Dedaux, U.S. Probation Office, Gulf Port, MS.

“The variety of topics available and the chosen presenters.” John Steinhilber, U.S. Probation Officer, Miami, FL.

COMMENTS FROM OTHERS:

“I like the location of the conference, and the variety of choices given.” Marcial Perez, Pleasant Hills, Iowa.

“All of the work shops that I attended were very informative & applicable to the work that I am involved in.” Thomas Hurley, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“Excellent Information!”. Robert Brzenchek , Douglasville, PA.

“NGCRC is something I look forward to every year, and every time I come to this conference, it exceeds my expectations.” Kristopher B.E. Hansgen, Gang Specialist, St. Joseph, MN.

“Wonderful Networking opportunity with people all over the world”. Stacia Potorff, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

“It was very pleasant to hear a combination of academics & real world practitioners on gang activities.” Carlos Hernandorena, Falls Church, VA.

“Best training I’ve been to. I learned so many new things both professionally & personally. It energized me & makes me excited be part of this field!” and “Thank you!”. Mallory Fuchs, Owatonna, MN.

“So many different class options...just about every aspect of "Gangs" were covered!”. Melissa Cordeiro, City of Tacoma, Tacoma, WA.

“Networking and having the ability to connect with other people in your field from other states. Finding out how they handle their gang issues and compare it to how my work handles it. The speakers were also outstanding!”. Kyra Luepke, Graduate Student, Prinsburg, MN.

“The Cyber Bullying gave essential information on the subject not only for my work but for my personal life with my 16 year old and red flags to pay attention to. Thank you!” and “Extremely Good Presenter!”. Debra A. Higens, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“The networking opportunities are excellent!”. Randall Strickland, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“A great opportunity to meet past colleagues and friends which provides the best circumstance to network and build professional ties.” Dr. Andy Bain, University of Mount Union, Alliance, OH.

“Registration staff were wonderful.” Mario Hesse, Professor, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.

“Networking receptions are a great way to met others and decompress after absorbing a lot of information.” James A Anderson, Deputy State Fire Marshall, Little Falls, MN.

“The presenters and materials were well organized, professional and interesting!”. April Lyskowsky, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“Everything”. Carlos Collazo, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“It was very informative and the networking was very good.” William Rodriguez, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“I enjoyed the excellent assistance received from student assistants and office staff. NGCRC staff did a great job.” Dr. Manuel R. Roman Jr., Sacramento, CA.

“By far an amazing training as always”. Deepa R. Patel, Springfield, VA.

COMMENTS FROM POLICE:

“I like the location of the conference, and the variety of choices given.” Marcial Perez, Pleasant Hills, Iowa.

“Opportunities to network and gather info on gangs/issues across the country not just my region.” Kris Murphy, Salt Lake Area Gang Project, Salt Lake City, UT.

“Great Hotel!! Great networking with other gang detectives from across the country.” Det. Esekia Afatas, Salt Lake Area Gang Project, Salt Lake City, UT.

“I really appreciated the veterans reception. I thought it was a great idea and haven't been to anything similar in the past. The number of training options was great.” Erin Nelson, Fairfax County Police Department, Springfield, VA.

“Enjoyed the "criminal mind and the gangster." I enjoyed the large number of offerings for training - the facility (hotel) was nice.” Jesse Hambrick, Douglas County Sheriffs Dept., Douglasville, GA.

“Meeting new officers and investigators”. Officer Eric Scott, Shelby County Schools, Memphis, TN.

“Well organized, great staff and excellent presenters”. Constable Boris Sark, Victoria Police Department, Victoria, BC, Canada.

“The variety of classes, allowed me to try different areas of training that I never would have before.” Anthony Caliendo, Deputy Sheriff, Lake County Sheriffs Office, Waukegan, IL.

“The volume of classes was nice to be able to choose from.” Officer Michael R. Ball, Sonoma County Sheriffs Office, Santa Rosa, CA.

“Recognition of our nations vets and law enforcement’s fallen - networking with old friends and new contacts”. Fred Moreno, Chicago, IL.

“Great Topics”. Det. Christopher Ryan Geoghegan, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“There were great instructors”. Gary Hensler, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Networking”. Morris Franklin, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“The workshops were great Dr. Todd Negola and Ken Davis were great”. Terrance Stone, Chairman, San Bernardino County Gangs & Drugs Task Force, San Bernardino, CA.

“Very informative, great venue”. Matthew Foote, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The presenters for each class that I attended were very knowledgeable.” Adele Gardner, Police Officer, Detroit Public Schools Police Department, Detroit, MI.

“The high level of specialists that were speakers.” Dante A. Salinas, patrolman, Waukegan Police Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Wide range of topics from all across, United States.” Det. Alan Beckman, Will County Sheriffs Office, Joliet, IL.

“Lots of great information”. Samer Kato, Macomb County Sheriffs Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Really enjoyed Carter Smith, Todd Negola & Chris Przemieriecki Great speakers”. Stephen D. Stollar, Carroll County Sheriffs Office, Carrollton, GA.

“Extensive material”. Det. Michael Pivowar, Parke County Sheriffs Office, Rockville, IN.

“This was the first conference I have attended in my 9 years of law enforcement and it was a fantastic learning experience.” Justin J. Closen, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“Great Instructors and Great Class Diversity and Selection”. Jason Danner Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“Ken Davis & Dr. Rush they were great.” Michael Deese, Douglasville County Sheriffs Office, Douglasville, GA.

“Wide range of information available.” Jacob Beck, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“Tons of classes” and “Really enjoyed classes 64 & 20.” Marc Deshales, Ft. Wayne Police Department, Ft. Wayne, IN.

“I feel that my skills were expanded by attending”. Sgt. William Ceci Sr., Will County Sheriffs Office, Joliet, IL.

“The opportunity to listen to and learn from different specialists in gang investigations was great. Bringing different experiences and perspectives under one roof will elevate us all in the L.E. profession.” Marco A. Ayala, Lawrence Police Department, Lawrence, MA.

“NCIC class was great.” and “Most presenters seemed well organized & knowledgeable”. Officer Trent Howard, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“Your not in the same class listening to the same instructor in the same room the whole time”. Michael Spence, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Well organized considering the amount of classes.” and “I really enjoyed class 102. The instructor was excellent”. Laura Lightfoot, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“Training” and “Meeting Contacts From Over Country (Networking)”. Bryan Sylvester, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“The conference provided a wealth of different subjects and expert presenters on those topics.” Robert Leman, Oakland County Sheriffs Office, Pontiac, MI.

“Presenters were very knowledgeable and informative.” John J. Grant, Indiana State Police, Ft. Wayne, IN.

“The amount of information”. Clint Fore, investigator, Biloxi Police Department, Biloxi, MS.

“Great instructors, great training.” Richard Hilliard, investigator, Biloxi Police Department, Biloxi, MS.

“The experience and good amount of knowledge.” Adam K. Siefman, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“Variety of classes & fields.” Dustin Lind, Investigator, Lincoln Police Department, Lincoln, NE.

“The various classes and number of options for specialization”. Officer Lucas Liddle, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“Presenters have a great passion for topics”. Det. Carlton Conway, Elkhart Police Department, Elkhart, IN.

“The Information!”. Keyon David Ashe, Department of Public Safety, Raleigh, NC.

“Excellent variety of classes and instructors.” Mark A. Taylor, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Networking and organization”. Chris Carter, FBI Federal Gang Task Force, Moline, IL.

“I enjoy how professional this conference is ran! Thank You!” and “I LOVE CHICAGO!”. Det. M. Santiago, Seattle Police Dept (Gang Unit), Seattle, WA.

“The instructors are very knowledgeable about what they are teaching.” Will Haley, Oakland County Sheriffs Office, Pontiac, MI.

“Freedom to choose my classes”. Michael Geddings, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“The variety of courses & various times available to attend the classes made it possible to attend the classes I wanted !!!” and “Thank You!!”. Robert T. Sevaaetasi, Gang Unit, Seattle Police Department, Bellevue, WA.

“Learned a lot of new and useful information.” Shalandra Burch, Department of Juvenile Justice, Chicago, IL.

“The instructors were very knowledgeable.” Brandon Singleton, Salt Lake Area Gang Project, Salt Lake City, UT.

“The NGCRC staff. Good communication with attendees.” Lt. William Loescher, Puyallup Tribal Police Department, Puyallup Tribee of Indians , Tacoma, WA.

“Getting to network with officers from around the country!”. Det. Juan Gonzalez, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“Diversity of Education”. Benjamin A. Tobey, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“The networking, resources learned. Also good updates since the last time I was here.” Ben Durian, Wyoming Department of Public Safety, Wyoming, MI.

“The variety of speakers, topics, & classes.” Jason Caster, Wyoming Department of Public Safety, Wyoming, MI.

“The speakers were very educated and professional, but kept the information unfiltered.” Jelani Coppage, Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office, Kansas City, KS.

“Many of the presenters were very knowledgeable, and had a great intel of the information they presented.” Adrienne D. Gilchrist, Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office, Kansas City, KS.

“I really enjoyed interacting with people of different agencies and backgrounds to learn about different gang problems & techniques”. Mark Boudreau, Flint Police Department, Flint, MI.

“Todd Negola is a phenomenal speaker, very interesting & keeps audience engaged”. Officer Sean McCoy, North Aurora Police Department, North Aurora, IL.

“Staff and presenters were very informative and helpful. Hotel was great and very clean. It was great networking with LEO’s from all over country”. Officer David Parr, North Aurora Police Department, North Aurora, IL.

“A large choice of courses.” Robert G. Rose, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Several quality speakers presented new ideas and concepts I can take back to my department.”and “The networking reception & complimentary cubs ticket are always a plus!”. Thomas W. Epps, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“The ability to network with other law enforcement officers that can assist with investigations and issues that are entering in Canada.” Constable David Jorgensen, Victoria Police Department, Victoria, BC, Canada.

“I liked being able to choose which classes to attend. Great variety.” Shauna K. Spurgess, FBI, Detroit, MI.

“The amount of seminars”. Joe Piscitelli, Rosemont Police Service, Rosemont, IL.

“Wide range of topics covered”. Anthony DiIacova, Rosemont Police Service, Rosemont, IL.

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THRASHER AWARDS:

A Call for Nominations

The Thrasher Award is named in honor of Frederic Milton Thrasher, the 1927 author of the classic study of Chicago gangs, who generated the first social scientific analysis of gangs. Some say he started a new field of study: gangology.

Thrasher is known for his book The Gang: 1,313 Gangs in Chicago.

The Thrasher Awards recognize outstanding contributions in research, scholarship, service, leadership, and other related accomplishments in dealing with the gang problem.

If you know someone who has achieved something outstanding in this area, then please send your nominations to: The 2021 Thrasher Awards Committee, National Gang Crime Research Center, P.O. Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. You can fax these as well: (708) 258-9546. You can email as well to: gangcrime@aol.com

The policy of the NGCRC is to provide complete and absolute identity protection to those who would want to nominate someone for a Thrasher Awards. The identity of a person or organization that would nominate someone for a Thrasher Award is therefore protected by this explicit written policy of the NGCRC. We will not reveal this information to recipients, it is considered confidential information. But by the same token, the NGCRC cannot accept "anonymous nominations".

As a general guideline, for "how to prepare" a nomination: one cover letter, and then whatever attachments you feel are necessary to support the nomination. Attachments can include: statements or letters from others, corroborating the nomination, newspaper coverage, any forms of documentation that can support the nomination.

Thrasher Awards will be made at NGCRC's 2021 Twenty Fourth International Gang Specialist Training Program for persons who have made outstanding contributions in research, scholarship, service, leadership, and other accomplishments in dealing with the gang problem. These Awards cannot be made in absentia.

Thrasher Awards are made on-site during the Conference in a special ceremony. These awards cannot be made in absentia. Some were allowed to be made in absentia in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that is not expected to be as large of a continuing threat in 2021. Awards ceremony time and date (during the 2021 Conference in Chicago, 7:00 am Opening Ceremony for the Conference), scheduled for Monday, 7:00am, August 2, 2021. Recipients must be seated in the front row area. Arrive just before 7am and check in with the staff in front, tell them you are an Award Recipient.

Preliminary List of Thrasher Award Recipients for 2021:

TBA

Why the NGCRC has continued to set the "Gold Standard" for Gang Training:

The National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) has pioneered the field by first of all being producers of gang knowledge, publishing and disseminating useful information recognized at the highest levels of the social scientific community. Additionally, the NGCRC has a long track record of service (1990 to present) to law enforcement and correctional agencies nationwide in the goal of reducing gang violence. The research and intelligence analysis developed by the NGCRC over the years, and published in its scholarly journal, the Journal of Gang Research (now in its 28th year of publication), is of great practical value for gang investigators in law enforcement and STG coordinators in the field of corrections. Gang investigators at all levels of government, here and abroad, as well as gang/STG experts in corrections who attend the NGCRC training conferences have clearly made their views known that the NGCRC training is the best in regard to offering high quality practical choices. Police and corrections experts teach a variety of courses at the NGCRC training conference.

The NGCRC, unlike other gang training groups, has a high level of transparency. The NGCRC provides a enormous amount of information about all details of the training conference. A lot of work goes into providing attendees with voluminous information about every aspect of the conference: from information about the trainers, to the descriptions of courses, to the tours, receptions, and special networkng events. The NGCRC even provides a preliminary schedule of events months before the actual training date, so that an attendee can literally "map out" and create an full personlized training experience by picking and choosing what to attend in advance. The NGCRC model illustrates a high level of professionalism.

The NGCRC training conference is specifically designed to “train the trainer”: someone who completes the training will be able to return to their police department or institution equipped to train others. Investigators return with a wealth of printed information, and lots of new “networking contacts”: persons to call upon in the future.

GOOD TO VERIFY IF YOU ARE ACTUALLY REGISTED FOR THIS CONFERENCE:

It is good to verify it if you think you are registered for this conference and if you have not received what is called a "Confirmation of Conference Registration" letter from the NGCRC.

The NGCRC sends out a "registration confirmation" to everyone who is actually registered for the conference. This letter documents what training track you may have signed up for, and can also serve as a receipt for payment of conference fees.

So if you think you are registered and you have not received a "Registration Confirmation", then you may want to use a VERIFY MY REGISTRATION FORM. This form can be faxed or mailed in to the NGCRC and we will be able to promptly verify back to you if you are or are not registered. Please no phone or email inquiries: we need it in writing.

This procedure is particularly helpful if your agency has "dropped the ball" in terms of getting the registration form/payment mailed off to the NGCRC.

You would not be eligible to register for the conference if you cannot sign the Policy statement on the regular NGCRC registration form; as a long standing rule, we do not allow journalists or defense attorneys because of the disruptive chilling effect they have. This is a mostly police conference: no one is authorized to take photographs or digitital recordings of any kind at the NGCRC conference, it is simply true that we get a lot of undercover detectives who deserve to have their privacy protected. We do not allow researchers to attend the Conference with the intent to use the attendees as informal or qualitative "data".

The Verify My Registration Form

Name:_______________________________________________________________________________________

Mailing address:________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________________________________________________________

Fax my confirmation back to me at this fax number: Area Code:________ Fax Number:__________________________

PROCEDURE FOR REGISTERING BY MEANS OF A PURCHASE ORDER

This explains the new streamlined policy and procedure for persons from government agencies who seek to register for the 2021 NGCRC Training Conference by means of a Purchase Order or related type of procurement method. There are three main provisions of this policy and procedure and they are as follows:

1. A purchase order number must be provided on the form used by the Agency, and it must bear a signature. It should reflect that the payee will be the NGCRC and the form should also reflect the specific amount payable to the NGCRC (call if you have any questions in this regard). Please provide any special billing information (e.g., who specifically we should make the Invoice out to and where specifically we should mail the Invoice to).

2. Fax your registration forms and the Purchase Order to the NGCRC ASAP. The NGCRC fax number is (708) 258-9546. After faxing it in, simply complete the registration form and attach a purchase order and mail it in ASAP to: National Gang Crime Research Center, 2021 Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. We do need it faxed and mailed as well. Please note that the deadline for Purchase Orders faxed to the NGCRC is July 31, 2021 (unless you call and obtain exemption from this deadline). Please note that the NGCRC will not accept “onsite” registrations by means of oral declarations that “my agency is going to pay for it”, and will not accept on-site purchase orders. If you are planning to pay by means of Purchase Order, then it must be done before the conference.

3. Upon receipt of the registration form(s) and the purchase order form (or a letter head version) the NGCRC will register the persons(s) and issue their agency an Invoice. At the same time, the NGCRC will send individual letters confirming the registration to those persons. There are no “on-site” registration options for payment by means of a Purchase Order.

Those registering by means of a Purchase Order or if paying by a credit card can simply fax in their registrations, the fax number for the NGCRC is (708) 258-9546.

THE TRAINING SCHEDULE:

The training schedule is as follows:

August 1 (Sunday), 2021: You can register from 3:00pm to 10:00pm, pick up your badge and bag of goodies.

August 2 (Monday), 2021: Opening day begins 7am with an Official Welcoming Ceremony. Classes begin at 8:00am. And continue into the night.

August 3 (Tuesday), 2021: early riser sessions begin 6am; regular sessions begin 8am and continue into the night.

August 4 (Wednesday), 2021: early riser sessions begin 6am; regular sessions begin 8am, and terminate at 5:00p.m. You must pick up your certificates before 6:00pm.

Note: we provide early morning sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday; we provide noon sessions; and we provide early evening sessions on Mon. And Tues. Evenings — this "extra credit" allows persons to accumulate 24 hours of training by using the “customized schedule”, and by accumulating four hours out of the regular schedule allows you to leave at noon on Wednesday (giving you much flexibility on airline schedules for departing Chicago on Wednesday). These "early morning sessions" begin at either 6am or 7am; the evening courses begin at 5pm and can go up till 10pm if we need to. Thus, when you complete your 24 hours, you are eligible to depart with your certificates. Clothing suggestion: business casual.

An Option for 2021: The Double Major

(Signing Up for Two Tracks)

The NGCRC has had repeated requests for this over the years, the idea of having a "double major": i.e., to be able to sign up for two (2) different specialty track areas. The benefit, of course, is that such a "double major" would result in two different specialty track certificates: one certificate for each of the two tracks.

The NGCRC is pleased to announce that the double major option is now available and it is described here.

Q: What does it mean to have a double major?

A: All it means is you can have two "tracks"; you have to log in a minimum of four hours in each of the two specialty areas.

Q: How many certificates do I get if I am registered for non-certification?

A: None.

Q: How many certificates do I get if I registered for certification?

A: Two: one for your program of study reflecting the completion of the 2021 program consisting of 24 hours of training, and one for your specialty area. Previously in history people attending the conference could only have one track.

Q: If I sign up for the Double Major or "two track option", how many certificates will I get?

A: Three: your basic 24 hour program completion certificate, and then one each for each of the two (2) different tracks.

Q: How much does it cost to sign up for the Two Track Option?

A: $90.00 if paid before July 1^st; $105 if paid on or after that or onsite.

Q: What if there is a scheduling conflict and I discover at the conference I cannot accumulate the minimum number of hours in one of the two tracks?

A: We will refund your Two Track Option amount in full, no problem; and return you to the one track registration mode of your choice.

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The Two Track Sign Up Form

Print Name:____________________________________________________

Address:______________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:_________________________________________________

Print name of 2^nd Track here:_______________________________________

Enclose $90.00 check or money order made payable to the National Gang Crime Research Center, and mail to: NGCRC, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990.

If paying on or after August 1, 2021 please note that the fee increases to $105.

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GOT QUESTIONS: Call the NGCRC at (708) 258-9111

The "Added Value" of NGCRC Training:

The added value of NGCRC training is easy to explain and it is designed to be different than other groups who sponsor such training conferences: you get more for your money. You see that reflected in the evaluation results from previous NGCRC Conferences. Other people "copy" what we do, or they try to. But you can do a quick check of facts here: who else offers as many different sessions or courses than the NGCRC? It is such a huge and massive undertaking, that persons who attend this conference benefit from the very factor of "diversity" in the choices they have --- what they want to learn, what instructors they want to learn from, etc

First, all NGCRC trainees are given a wealth of high-quality take home printed training materials. The value of these books, reflecting the official books and journals from the NGCRC and related topics of interest about gangs, is itself a value comparable to the price of training itself. Most gang training programs provide a small amount of take-home written training materials, while the NGCRC provides an abundance of high-quality written take-home training materials. All persons attending the conference receive a "bag of goodies" which includes these kinds of useful written take-home training materials.

Secondly, no other training organization in the world provides the large variety of training options that the NGCRC provides; the NGCRC brings in more trainers and provides, therefore, more "choices" to trainees. NGCRC provides a large professional training experience in an environment designed for training. For example in the 2020 Conference there were over one hundred different sessions. Typically, gang conferences offer a small selection of training options. So if you think a variety of choices is a good thing, then you need to attend our training conference.

Thirdly, the NGCRC training is designed to produce "trainers": trainees who attend and complete the training typically return to their respective jurisdictions with an incredible new arsenal of training tools to train others in the field. You will get new and useful gang information at our 2021 Training Conference.

Fourthly, the NGCRC training includes social opportunities that are structured to enhance the ability of the trainee to network with others in the field at a national and international level.

BENEFITS OF ATTENDING THE 2021 NGCRC TRAINING CONFERENCE:

You have the power to "choose" what you want to learn. You have the right to "major in" what area of specialization or concentration you are interested in. Our conference provides an incredible array of different professional gang training sessions that trainees can make up their own minds what they want to attend. This is not the "one size fits all" model of training where every trainee attends each of a small limited number of training sessions and every trainer works all day to give the same talk three or four times. Our training program provides what we think people really want: the freedom to choose what kind of training they want from an incredible list of available choices. If you wanted a "Crash Course" on gangs, then this would be it.

There has never been a gang training conference where people can "specialize" in a wide variety of areas of expertise. So the 2021 NGCRC Gang Training Conference really is a "history making event". It allows persons to network with others in their special area of interests and it has the organizational strength of much diversity among the trainers. It also has curriculum materials that are truly "cutting-edge". No one else promises you NETWORKING RESULTS. We do, based on previous performance.

Obviously, no single person could ever attend each and every one of the many different sessions that will be available for the 2021 NGCRC 24th International Gang Specialist Training Program: one person has only 24 hours to spend in classroom training. There may be six or more different "sessions" being taught at the same time: you can only be in one place at one time. So make your session choices wisely by studying the huge curriculum.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION OPTIONS:

Trainees can register for Non-Certification or they can register for Certification. Both of these registration options are explained below.

Non-Certification: This option is for those who do not need a transcript to be maintained of their training experience and who do not desire a high quality certificate in an upward path of gang specialist training. This option is best for those who just want to attend, get the training materials, and be free to come and go as they wish. Trainees are eligible to receive 24 hours of on-site training during the conference. Please note that if you register for non-certification you do not receive any certificates of your training. Non-certification trainees do receive the same high quality set of take home training materials as those who register for Certification. Persons registering for non-certification are allowed to "upgrade" their registration to Certification; please inquire in writing about this procedure.

Certification: The certification is provided by the National Gang Crime Research Center, the premier gang research organization in the world, founded in 1990 it publishes the only professional international refereed journal about gangs (the Journal of Gang Research), it does extensive research on gangs, and it has a strong positive track record for providing high quality training on gang issues. TheJournal of Gang Research has 25 years of gang research publishing experience and as the Official Publication of the NGCRC it is abstracted in the Psychological Abstracts, Criminal Justice Abstracts, Sociological Abstracts, Social Service Abstracts, and other international organizations that recognize professional journals. For more information about the accomplishments of the NGCRC, see its webpage information (www.ngcrc.com). The NGCRC was given much positive attention in the November/December 2002 (No. 67) National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS) Catalog, U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs as a source of useful information on gangs (pp. 15, 17; this is not "advertising", because the NGCRC reports it recommended at our Web site were not government-funded and the NGCRC is not government funded, thus it is simply achieved positive recognition.

There are a number of different choices for a person seeking certification. You must select ONE of these areas of specialization for your own designated track when you register for certification.

When you register for certification, you select one "track" as your primary interest area. Your "track" is like your "major" in college. You must spend at least four hours in sessions designated for your "track". The other 20 hours of training are "electives": spend that time in any session you want to attend.

When you register for certification you receive two professionally printed color certificates of high display quality reflecting your training. One of these certificates reflects the completion of the 2021 Training Program (acknowleging you have completed 24 hours of training while in Chicago); and the second certificate reflects your specialized training in your chosen track area (acknowledging that you have completed a minimum of four hours of training in this track area). Those registering for non-certification do not receive such certificates.

The certificate we offer is designed for the gang specialist. The gang specialist is a person who works in the fields of expertise in the track areas and who deals in some way with the gang problem. The certificate we offer is not designed for the general public as a route to being employed in any of these track areas. The NGCRC training is not like the "Gangs 101" training offered by a local police or corrections training academy. The NGCRC training is more cerebral, it is more appreciative of criminological research and it is recognizes that sworn personnel can integrate with civilian specialists in the learning environment. The NGCRC does not solicit attendance from the general public. Rather the NGCRC explicitly reaches out to those persons working in a variety of professions that deal with the gang problem (law enforcement, county jail, county adult and juvenile probation officers, state prison and parole staff, prosecutors, public school safety/SRO staff, etc.

While there is no educational requirement or prerequisite to receive NGCRC training, the NGCRC does not promise that by receiving its certificates that it would be a key to the door of a job in any profession. Mostly professionals attend NGCRC training, people with college degrees of some sort. We get a number of Ph.D.'s who attend the training. And of course we receive a number of people with less than two years of college or university training. There is much occupational and educational diversity among the trainees who attend the NGCRC training conference. Our ideal trainer is not just a published professional, but also a pioneer and recognized leader in his/her field.

Some Q & A About the NGCRC Gang Training Conference:

Q: I see a lot of your presenters have Ph.D.'s or are lawyers with the JD degree, do you have to have a graduate degree to teach for the NGCRC?

A: No, but we prefer that our presenters be published professionals. The NGCRC recruits presenters who are highly qualified to speak to whatever subject matter their presentation focuses on.

Q: What distinguishes the NGCRC from other providers of gang training services?

A: The NGCRC has over 20 years of service to the American criminal justice system (law enforcement, adult and juvenile corrections, prosecution, probation, etc); the NGCRC has a legacy of carrying out large scale gang research projects of much import and usefulness to the criminal justice system and schools, communities; the NGCRC has a remarkable and unparalleled history of publishing and disseminating useful information about dealing with the gang problem through the Journal of Gang Research (the official publication of the NGCRC) and The Gang Specialist newspaper we distribute free of charge; the NGCRC has a high level of accountability, each attendee has a lengthy evaluation form which becomes the transcript and official record of their attendance at any NGCRC training event; there is an NGCRC management and planning committee that reviews these annual evaluations for the purpose of improving operations and for feedback to specific presenters (an SPSS statistical analysis is made of the evaluation data and presenter feedback is provided to presenters, while general feedback is reported in full at the NGCRC website); the NGCRC is highly organized and leaves little to chance, the most important functions at the NGCRC conference are directly supervised by NGCRC staff who are also on one of the Conference Management Committees, examples include the networking receptions which typically have the same experienced professional and courteous staff from one year to the next, this provides continuity in supervision over a span of years, so these NGCRC staff have no learning curve to face, they know what they are doing, and they know how to do it.

Q: Does the NGCRC Provide Any Help on Parking?

A: The NGCRC lacks that ability. Parking can cost over $72 day (overnight) if you park at the hotel. Fact: There is no cheap parking in Chicago. The NGCRC has no control or authority over parking costs in Chicago. Nor can the NGCRC endorse any of the number of different I-phone and Android apps (e.g., "spothero") that claim to find you and guarantee you affordable parking. The City of Chicago Parking Garages are known to have the most competitive rates. Good website to find parking as close as next door to the hotel at the Water Tower Place: www.chicagoparkingmap.com

Q: Any special advice for people who are considering making a presentation at the NGCRC Conference?

A: At the start of your session, right after giving the title slide to your Power Point presentation, give an OUTLINE slide. This way attendees will know what will and what will not be covered in your session. This way they cannot complain the title does not match your content. Beware of Receiving the Criticism that Your Title Does Not Match Your Session Content. Target harden your session against this potential criticism by having an outline that corresponds to the structure an content of your training goals. Consider putting handouts on a website or make available by request through email. A presenter could also insert the sentence at the end of his/her session: "Attendees at this session will be provided online access or an emailed version of the hand-outs shortly after the conference if they request it while attending the session and completing the sign-in sheet email-handout request form inside the presenters training room.

Q: How do I pick my courses, how do I pick what sessions I should attend?

A: You will have an evaluation form where you check off how much time you spent at the conference, and in which sessions. If you are registered for certification, then You need to log in (accumulate) four (N = 4) hours in your track area, and another 20 hours so that you have a total of N = 24 hours logged in during the three day conference. If you have a double major (two tracks), you need four hours minimum in each track, and then another 16 hours in any sessions you want to attend. The way to pick your classes is read the course listings (www.ngcrc.com/courses.html), you will notive that all sessions have a section called "Session Credits:" where the session lists the training tracks that it gives credit for. Look for sessions in your track area, you need a minimum of 4 hours in your track, the remaining 20 hours can be spent in your track or anywhere, it is your choice. You cannot attend all 100+ courses. You need to make a decision about what will help you the most. Do this by reading the session information (www.ngcrc.com/courses.html), then pick out 24 hours or so that you want to attend. Then go to the schedule and see if this works: www.ngcrc.com/schedule.html. If two of your choices are being taught at the same time, you have to pick one of them: most of the sessions or courses to not "repeat". You may need to go back to the session description information (www.ngcrc.com/courses.html) and pick a different session. Then check the schedule until you know you have a schedule that works for you.

CERTIFICATION UPGRADE:

This is applicable ONLY for those who have previously received certification from the NGCRC. The NGCRC provides for Certification Upgrades as explained here, free, automatically when you indicate your previous certification training with the NGCRC.

The registration form asks if you have completed prior Certification Training with the NGCRC. If you have, then you are eligible for a Certification Upgrade, so fill this out on the registration form. This Certification Upgrade procedure recognizes the cumulative nature of training over time (1997-present).

The intermediate, advanced, expert, professional, and master levels of certification therefore recognize this prior NGCRC training. The Basic Training Program is for those persons who have completed no prior certification with the NGCRC. When you register for Certification, you receive two certificates: one in your area of specialization, and one reflecting your level of Certification. The levels of certification are explained below.

If you have previously obtained Certification from the NGCRC, then you are eligible for a Certification Upgrade to one of the following options:

Intermediate Level Training Program: completed 24 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Advanced Level Training Program: completed 48 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Expert Level Training Program: completed 72 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Trainer/Consultant Level Training Program: completed 96 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 1 (First Degree) Training Program: completed 120 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 2 (Second Degree) Training Program: completed 144 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 3 (Third Degree) Training Program: completed 168 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 4 (Fourth Degree) Training Program: completed 192 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 5 (Fifth Degree) Training Program: completed 216 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 6 (Sixth Degree) Training Program: completed 240 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 7 (Seventh Degree) Training Program: completed 264 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 8 (Eighth Degree) Training Program: completed 288 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 9 (Ninth Degree) Training Program: completed 312 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 10 (Tenth Degree) Training Program: completed 336 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Professional Level 1 (First Degree) Training Program: completed 360 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Professional Level 2 (Second Degree) Training Program: completed 384 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 3 (Third Degree) Training Program: completed 408 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 4 (Fourth Degree) Training Program: Completed 432 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 5 (Fifth Degree) Training Program: Completed 456 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 6 (Sixth Degree) Training Program: Completed 456 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 7 (Seventh Degree) Training Program: Completed 480 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 8 (Eighth Degree) Training Program: Completed 504 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

CERTIFICATION OPTIONS: Those who register for certification receive two high quality certificates reflecting their training. Those who register for non-certification receive no certificate. However, those who register for non-certification are eligible to upgrade to full certification anytime prior to the conference itself, just pay the $100 additional cost.

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Upgrade from Non-Certification to Full Certification Form

My name is:_______________________________________________________________

I am already registered for Non-Certification. I wish to change my registration to full Certification.

My training track will be:______________________________________________________

I enclose $100.00 to upgrade my registration to full Certification.

You can also just pay for this On Site at the conference.

Mail this form to: NGCRC, Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468

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When registering for certification, the trainee selects one special "track" from the available list. What this means is that the trainee must spend at least four (4) hours in attending sessions designed for that specific "track"; the remaining twenty (20) hours can be used attending anything the trainee wants to attend.

Select Your Certification Specialty Choice From a List of Different Options (Training Tracks):

Those who register for certification receive two high quality 8 �" x 11" certificates reflecting their training. The certificates carry the seal of the National Gang Crime Research Center. If you register for certification, then you receive two certificates (1) one reflects that you completed the NGCRC's 2021 program consisting of 24 hours of intensive training, and (2) the second certificate reflects that you completed a minimum of four hours in a specialized topical area, i.e., your "track". Those who register for non-certification do not receive any certificates. Registering for non-certification is cheaper. However, those who register for non-certification are eligible to upgrade their enrollment to full certification on or before July 15, 2021, just pay the extra $100 additional cost accompanied with the "Upgrade to Certification" form. The NGCRC conference does attract head hunters and administrators who may not necessarily need or want certification. But if you ever anticipate the need to provide quality proof of your training, you probably want to sign up for certification. When registering for certification, you need to select ONE (1) of the special gang certification training tracks from the available list. There are over 30 options on the list. You need to pick one. What this means is that the trainee must spend at least four (4) hours in attending sessions designed for that specific "track", and the remaining twenty (20) hours can be used attending anything the trainee wants to attend.

SPECIAL TRAINING TRACKS: Several specialized training tracks exist for those registering for Certification. The trainee receives a second certificate for the one area of chosen concentration, reflecting an intensive 4-hour minimum training requirement that is fulfilled during regular training sessions at the conference. A trainee registering for Certification must pick ONE of the specialized training track options. Current areas for choices in the specialized training tracks include the following options:

(1) Gang Crime Investigation Skills Track

(2) Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole Track

(3) Gang Homicide Investigation Skills Track

(4) Gangs and Drugs Track

(5) Gang Problems in K-12 Schools Track

(6) Gangs and Organized Crime

(7) Gangs and Mental Health Track

(8) Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills Track

(9) Gang Internet Investigation

(10) Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services Track

(11) Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills Track

(12) Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists

(13) Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence Track

(14) Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills Track

(15) Motorcycle Gangs (restricted: for Criminal Justice Personnel only)

(16) Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities

(17) Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators

(18) Gang Counseling Skills Track

(19) Advanced Gang Identification

(20) Gang Profile Analysis Track

(21) Gang Prosecution Track

(22) Gang Prevention Skills Track

(23) International and Transnational Gang Problems Track

(24) Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs Track

(25) Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs Track

(26) Female Gangs/Female Gang Members.Track

(27) Gang Crime Analysis & Mapping Track

(28) Gangs and the Mass Media Track

(29) Graffiti Identification and Analysis

(30) Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention Track

Please note: you have the option to delay making a decision about your track by just marking your form "TBA" where it asks for your track name, and this will be treated as "To Be Announced", and you have until July 15, 2021 to actually make up your mind about what track you want to have.

Also, you can change your "Track" at anytime on or before July 15, 2021. To change your track, just fax a memo to that effect to the NGCRC Conference Registration Center: (708) 258-9546.

Cancellation, Refunds, and Replacements Policy:

If you cancel on or before May 21, 2021, and the cancellation form is received on or before May 21, 2021, all of your registration fee minus the $75 cancellation fee will be refunded to you (refund checks are mailed out approximately 2 weeks AFTER the conference is over with).

If you cancel on or after May 22, 2021 and the cancellation form is received by the NGCRC on or before June 21, 2021, you are entitled to a refund in the amount of half (50%) of the registration fee, minus the $75 cancellation fee as well; refund checks are mailed out approximately 2 weeks AFTER the conference is over with.

Note: After 6-22-2021 there are no longer any refunds allowed. No-shows are non-refundable. We cannot be responsible for any transportation problems you had.

Note: It is not an affirmative defense to say you had trouble with our fax machine getting your cancellation form submitted "on time". You need to be using the United States Postal Service as your primary vehicle of notification, so that it has an official "time and date" stamp on it. If you are "late" with regard to dates for cancelling, then late means the terms and conditions apply. There are no exceptions to the terms and conditions for cancellation and refunds and replacements as listed here.

Note: You can "swap" or replace someone for a paid position. There is no additional cost for replacements. Just make sure you promptly do this on agency stationary and get it faxed and mailed in ASAP. Names associated with any NGCRC voucher for future training can also be easily changed by simple written request from an agency or individual.

As always the NGCRC will provide prompt refunds in cases where a trainee must cancel and contacts us to that effect, with sufficient advance notice, before the conference. However, because I.D.'s, credentials, and materials have already been prepared at time of the receipt of registration, and other related expenses will have already been incurred by the NGCRC on behalf of the registered trainee, a $75.00 fee will be assessed for any cancellation. If you need to cancel your registration, therefore, the NGCRC is responsible only for your registration fee refund minus the $75.00 cancellation fee. Further, there is a long-standing policy in a number of organizations providing training such as this to limit the amount of the refund: thus, if the cancellation request is received on or before May 21st, 2021, we will refund the entire registration fee minus the $75 cancellation fee.

However, if the cancellation request is received after May 22, 2021 and on or before June 21st, 2021 only 50% of the amount will be refundable (minus the additional $75 cancellation fee); and if the cancellation request is received on or after June 22nd, 2021, there are no refunds allowed. There are no special exceptions such as health, sickness, court duty, etc. It is important that you follow the format of the cancellation request: the cancellation request must be in writing, a phone call will not suffice; the written request must be mailed to the NGCRC, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468; and please fax us a copy as well (708) 258-9546, in the request please state who we should make the refund check payable to. No cancellations will be accepted by Email service or over the internet: U.S. Postal Service and fax are the two methods you need to use.

Replacements: replacements are allowed at any time. Should someone who has been registered for the conference be unable to attend, the agency may send a replacement at no extra cost. However, if you intend to do this, please notify us in writing so that the notice is received one week in advance to be able to have the proper ID Badge ready at time of registration. If you wait until the last minute, then it is still possible to send a replacement: but we would have to make their ID BADGE on-site at the Conference location. If you do want to send a replacement, kindly fax that request to (708) 258-9546 and follow-up with a phone call to (708) 258-9111. On-site replacements are also allowed.

The NGCRC refund policy supercedes any credit card policy if the person so registered for the conference has paid conference fees by means of a credit card.

No-Shows Non-Refundable: Those who are registered, but do not show up for the conference are not eligible for a refund.

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CANCELLATION AND REFUND REQUEST FORM:

Please Print and Execute this Refund Form if you Want a Refund:

REFUND FORM:

My name is _________________________ Today’s date is _______ . I paid $_______ for registration for the NGCRC's 2020 Twenty Third Gang Specialist Training Program, and I will not be able to attend, and I am requesting a refund.

I understand that if this form is received by the NGCRC before May 21st, 2021 I am entitled to a full refund minus the $75 cancellation fee.
I understand if the cancellation request is received after May 22nd, 2021 and on or before June 21st, 2021 only 50% of the amount will be refundable (minus the $75 cancellation fee); and if the cancellation request is received on or after June 22nd, 2021, there are no refunds allowed

Please make the refund check payable to _________________________

Mail it to:__________________________________________________

Note: Refund Form must be “received” by fax or U.S. Postal Service on or before designated eligibility dates.

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After June 22nd, 2021 no REFUNDS ARE ALLOWED. However, you can have a free "replacement". Just complete the replacement form provided here.

Replacement and Cancellation Form

Name of registration being cancelled:_____________________________________________

Name of Replacement for the above cancellation:____________________________________

Attach new registration form for the replacement and fax this on your letterhead to NGCRC: (708) 258-9546

POLICY WITH REGARD TO ON-SITE REGISTRATIONS:

1. Please beware that the NGCRC may not accept your on-site registration due to a lack of space (it is expected that the registrations will close early this year). One of the things the NGCRC does is prepare a very elaborate and valuable "goody bag" for all persons attending the conference, and we spend a great deal of effort and manpower in preparing exactly the number of bags needed. We cannot create more bags for unexpected “new arrivals”. If you are planning on registering onsite, even for a one day pass, you should call in advance to make sure we have room.

2. Everyone who is registered for this conference receives POSITIVE PROOF of their registration in the form of a confirmation letter from the NGCRC. If you have never received one of these letters from the NGCRC confirming your registration for the conference, then it is clear: you may not be registered for the conference.

3. Because of past abuses: the NGCRC will no longer accept promises of payment from agencies or individuals on-site. You will not be able to show up with a Purchase Order and register onsite.

REGISTRATION COSTS:

Note that the cost schedule refers to when exactly the payment is actually made for the training registration. There have been no increases in costs for the NGCRC Training Conference; the costs for 2021 remain the same as in 2020.

Thus the earlier the registration is processed the cheaper the registration cost. This sliding scale provides an incentive to register early in case "slots" for the training conference fill up early; as we do expect them to fill up early; we may at some point therefore not accept additional registrations if space is filled. Watch this Website for the notice of whether slots are available.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or before November 30, 2020: Non-Certification $400, Certification $450

Paying on or after December 1, 2020 and on or before December 31, 2020: Non-Certification $450, Certificatin $500

EARLY REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or after January 1, 2021 and on or before January 31, 2021: Non-Certification $500, Certification $550

Paying on or after February 1, 2021 and on or before February 28, 2021: Non-Certification $550, Certification $600

Paying on or after March 1, 2021 and on or before March 31, 2021: Non-Certification $600, Certification $650

REGULAR REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or after April 1, 2021 and on or before April 30, 2021: Non-Certification $650, Certification $700

Paying on or after May 1, 2021 and on or before May 31, 2021: Non-Certification $700, Certification $750

Paying on or after June 1, 2021 and on or before June 30, 2021: Non-Certification $750, Certification $800

Paying on or after July 1, 2021 and on or before July 31, 2021: Non-Certification $800, Certification $850

LATE REGISTRATION PERIOD:

Paying on August 1, 2021: Non-Certification, $900, Certification $950

ONSITE REGISTRATION: An Onsite Registration is any registration made on or after August 2 2021.

Paying On-Site (If slots are available): Non-Certification $950, Certification $1000

Price for the One-Day Pass: $395 per day.

You need to specify which day: ___Monday ___Tuesday ___Wednesday

Special Notice on On-Site Registration: (1) it is best that you get an advance "approval" from the NGCRC for any intention of trying to register for on-site registration, this is true for several reasons, including the lack of space, (2) because space is limited and we will not admit you automatically you are urged to notify the NGCRC in writing of your intent to register on-site, further that the NGCRC have this notification on or before July 15, (3) get your "clearance code" to register on-site, as we cannot guarantee any space available for "walkins".

Multiple Registration Discount:

Any agency registering three persons, simultaneously, is eligible for a $100 discount off the total training cost (by which we mean a $33.33 discount for each of the three). Additional discounts would apply for those agencies registering four or more persons (simultaneously) for training. An agency registering more than three persons, simultaneously, will qualify for a Group Discount Code. Call the National Gang Crime Research Center to inquire about group rates (708 258-9111). The Group Discount Code provides a sliding-scale group rate discount. There is no retroactive value: if you do not apply for a Group Discount Code in advance of registration then you are not eligible for it. Inquire about your eligibility for other discounts (e.g., if you were registered for some other gang training conference that had to be cancelled if they are reputable organizations the NGCRC might have established discount incentives we can offer persons who were not able to attend due to the conference being cancelled --- the NGCRC works with a lot of such organizations.....so just inquire to see if you are eligible for a discount, sometimes we can help, sometimes we can't....it depends on what organization cancelled out on you.....the one thing you can always count on is that the NGCRC will never cancel on you).

There are no multiple registration discounts for the One Day Pass.

EXHIBITORS:

Various exhibitors are expected at the Conference, including books, materials about gangs. If you are a company that wants to exhibit, call the NGCRC for details, (708) 258-9111. Vendors are not allowed to attend training sessions. Vendors get about 20 hours of exhibit time (from 9am Monday until noon Wednesday).

PICKING UP YOUR REGISTRATION MATERIALS:

Trainees need to pick up their registration materials, these include: I.D. Badge, Evaluation Form, Conference Proceedings, and related materials distributed to trainees. You pick up your registration materials at the Training Site: the hotel, ask for the NGCRC Operations Center room, or follow conspicuously posted signage.

Trainees may pick up their registration materials during the evening of Sunday, August 1, 2021. That is early registration. This will start at 3:00 p.m. and last until 10:00 p.m.

Trainees may also pick up their registration materials during the early morning registration period (starting at 6:00 a.m. on Monday August 2, 2021). That is the regular registration.

Trainees may also pick up their registration materials at any time during the training schedule by coming to the Operations Room at the Training Site. That would cover anyone arriving for late registration.

THE REGULAR TRAINING TIME SCHEDULE

Here is the Monday (August 2, 2021), Tuesday (August 3, 2021), Wednesday (August 4, 2021) training schedule (August 2-4, 2021): training sessions 8:00 am-noon, 1 hour lunch break, training sessions 1:00 pm-5:00 pm. Thus, a total of 24 training hours are logged in during the regular training schedule. We do, of course, offer "pre-conference" sessions for credit (on Sunday afternoon: mostly for those new to gang training).

Some evening functions (after 5:00 p.m.) are also going to be scheduled. There are also "early riser" sessions: for those who want a session before 8am. There will even be "noon sessions": we are doing this to accommodate travel arrangements where persons may arrive late, or where they may have to leave the training site to return early. Dress code: informal. All training rooms are airconditioned.

THE NGCRC IS A FAMILY FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT:

The NGCRC, unlike most other conferences, is "family friendly". If you have a spouse or children who may need to visit with you during your training time period, the NGCRC has established the "family friendly policy" of providing Conference Identification Badges to family members (spouses, children, etc). This allows them to come in and have coffee and donuts with you, etc. Thus, you are not "isolated" from your family. To receive I.D. badge credentials for your family members, just ask for "Family ID Credentials" in a fax or written letter to the NGCRC: Give their names. When you register, to pick up your own Registration Materials, you will find their "Family ID's" in your own registration kit. They will be allowed into the "secure areas" so they may contact you. These "family members" will not receive "Goody Bags" or conference materials, but they will be allowed past the security check points and will therefore be able to pass without delay or hindrance to meet with you if necessary. Some restaurants and eateries give NGCRC trainees a discount (no discount on liquor, food only), and all you have to do is show your Conference Identification Badge. The "Family ID's" are good for the food discounts. An example of this is the famous German restaurant "The Berghoff Restaurant", 17 West Adams, Chicago, IL; and you get a free pretzel with your food when you display your conference ID card.

Enhancements --- EARLY, NOON, and EVENING SESSIONS:

To accommodate those individuals who want to leave early on Wednesday August 4th (2021), and still allow them to accumulate their 24 hours of training, we are this year planning to offer some early morning, lunch time, and evening sessions. The current plan is to have a few such sessions available for this purpose. This will provide at least four (4) hours of training outside of the regular training schedule, which will allow persons who need to leave at noon on Wednesday to do so.

Rooms are available at the Hotel at the same rate for Friday nights and Saturday as well, at the same rates, if anyone is interested in getting cheaper flights by staying an extra day or so: just ask the hotel registration personnel. You should be able to get the same rate for two days prior and two days after the 2-4 August 2021 time frame. If you have trouble with the hotel, feel free to call the NGCRC and ask for the "hotel liaison" to see if there is anything we can do to help. Sometimes the "block of bumper rooms" sells out (bumper rooms are those before and after the conference).

You basically "pick and choose" your own custom-made training schedule. You can take your pick from a number of different session choices. There are typically six or seven sessions going on at any particular time. So, you just "vote with your feet". The full schedule of courses by room numbers, and day/time slots will be posted at this website prior to the conference. You can therefore study it and more effectively use your training time prior to arrival.

DRESS CODE:

We have had a number of questions about "dress code" from persons registered to attend the conference. We can clarify this now: there is no dress code. Dress casual, it is summer time. If you want to dress more formally, that's okay too. Your laminated military-style identification badge for the conference gives you access to the building locations you need access to.

USE OF COMMUNICATION DEVICES AND MATERIALS AT THE NGCRC GANG TRAINING CONFERENCE: SPECIFIC RESTRICTIONS AND SPECIFIC PROHIBITIONS

1. BACKGROUND
The National Gang Crime Research Center's annual gang specialist training conferences often relate sensitive information and/or data via various forms of communication, and are attended by undercover officers.
2. DEFINITIONS
A. Communication Devices: Are defined as digital or film cameras, digital or videotape recorders, digital or tape voice recorders, cellular telephones capable of transmitting visual images or recording audio memos, and apparatuses capable of transmitting or recording textual messages.
B. Materials: Are defined as any spoken words of an instructor, any MS PowerPoint slides, any photocopied handouts, any official and unofficial publications, and the visual identity (facial recognition) of any undercover agents.
C. Originator: Is defined as the person, persons, organization, or agency responsible for the authorship (i.e., preparation, presentation, publication, and/or utterance) of any of the above materials.
3. POLICY
This policy is, therefore, established for the use and protection of the aforementioned.
A. Communication devices capable of recording are prohibited from use within the training area--noting the following.
(1) Except as employed by NGCRC staff or security personnel.
(2) Except as authorized by the NGCRC Director or Security Staff Chief.
B. Communication devices capable of transmission are prohibited from use within the training area--noting the following.
(1) Except as necessary to remain in contact for official business related to one's employment.
(2) Cellular telephones and pagers may remain on, but must be set at the least distractive alert setting possible [such as "vibrate"].
(3) All conversation or messaging will be conducted in the hallways and not in classrooms during class sessions.
C. An originator's written permission must be obtained before quoting, paraphrasing, or otherwise referencing any portion of the above-mentioned materials under the following conditions.
(1) When within any journalistic context.
(2) When within any mass media context.
(3) When within any proceedings of an official nature

4. VIOLATIONS

Any violations of this policy shall be grounds for immediate and permanent expulsion of said persons violating this policy from the conference.

The Gang Prevention - Intervention - Counseling Networking Reception:

(84) “Gang Prevention - Intervention - Counseling Networking Reception”. This is hosted by Robert Mulvaney, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Special Note: 5pm-6pm, Monday, August 3, 2021. You need a ticket for the event, you get the ticket by signing up for it on your registration form. The ticket will be waiting for you in your registration packet you receive when you pick up your conference ID credentials.

Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gangs and Mental Health.

Special Procedure for Sign Up: You need to check the “box” on your registration form in order to qualify to attend this event. It is a “ticketed” event. You get the ticket by signing up for it on the registration form itself or by using the ticket request form at the website, or by sending in a request to that effect..

Abstract

The gang intervention/prevention reception is a special event at the NGCRC and it has a long history of also being a valuable networking session. Come hear some analysis of the current state of affairs in gang prevention and learn about some people who are really making a difference in the world. This is also the time and venue in which the “NGCRC Spirit of Excellence Awards” are made. There are also door prizes in a random drawing based on your ticket to the event. You need to have a ticket to attend this event. The only way to get a ticket is to sign up for it in advance on the registration form itself.

Bio

Robert Mulvaney is a long time NGCRC staff member. He is a journal editor with the NGCRC, he has worked on numerous NGCRC research projects over the years. He has a Master's degree and much experience in the field of corrections. He has also received certification from the Office of Substance Abuse Services (OSAS).

THE CHRISTIAN GANG SPECIALIST RECEPTION:

This is available only to persons registered for the conference. This will be held during an "off time" in the regular conference schedule (lunch time). If you answered "YES" to the question on your registration form "I am interested in networking with Christian gang specialists while at this conference", then your registration I.D. Package Folder contains a special ticket that allows you into this reception. If you answered "NO" or left the quastion blank, it was assumed you are not interested. If you fall into the latter category, the Session Attendance Simulation Survey will ask you a second time if you want to be added to the group of persons who will attend this special networking reception. As we need to plan on how many are attending, no "walk ins" will be allowed. And as is the NGCRC tradition, of course, there are "door prizes" at this reception.

The format this year will likely be a light luncheon format (we are still working out specific arrangements: so stay tuned to this website for further details and developments). As always, there is no extra "charge" for signing up for receptions that may also provide you with food, beverages, etc. It is something you are automatically entitled to as a part of your conference registration fee. We will modify this announcement as needed. The Christian Gang Specialist Networking Reception is scheduled for Noon, Tuesday, August 3, 2021. This years host is Robert Mulvaney. Door Prizes Provided.

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The Christian Gang Specialist Network Reception Ticket Request Form

I am registered for the Conference. Please Sign me up for the Christian Gang Specialist Network Reception.

Name:__________________________________________

Address:________________________________________

City, ST, ZIP:____________________________________

Fax and mail this to the NGCRC: Fax (708) 258-9546.

Mail: NGCRC, 2020 Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990

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The Law Enforcement, Prosecution, Corrections Network Reception:

This is available only to persons who work in law enforcement, prosecution, or corrections agencies. How do you sign up? Through the Registration Form itself or use the special request form below. If you do, you are in and a ticket will be in your registration file folder when you arrive at the conference. No ticket, no entrance to the event.

Reception Hosts: TBA.

At this year's training conference we are sponsoring a "Agency Patch Exchange" within the networking function designed for corrections and law enforcement personnel. If you are interested, please secure some of your agency's patches and bring them with you. We will have a time set aside for this at the Corrections/Law Enforcement Network function. So bring your appetite and your patches and have a great time! As always, there is no extra "charge" for signing up for receptions that may also provide you with food, beverages, etc. It is something you are automatically entitled to as a part of your conference registration fee.

And as is the NGCRC tradition, of course, there are "door prizes" at this reception. The Corrections/Law Enforcement Reception is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, 2020.

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The Corrections/Law Enforcement Network Reception Ticket Request Form

I work in Law Enforcement, Prosecution, or Corrections. Please Sign me up for the Law Enforcement, Prosecution, Corrections Network Reception.

Name:__________________________________________

Address:________________________________________

City, ST, ZIP:____________________________________

Fax and mail this to the NGCRC: Fax (708) 258-9546.

Mail: NGCRC, 2020 Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990

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The Veterans Reception: For Vets Only, by Dr. Todd Negola, NGCRC Staff; Fred Moreno, NGCRC Staff, Chicago, IL and NGCRC staff; and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN, and NGCRC staff.

One (1) hour Scheduled for Monday August 2nd, noon.

Session Credits: Gang Investigation Skills.

Abstract

This is a special reception for vets only. It is held during the lunch hour on Monday. The purpose is to express appreciation to veterans for their service in the defense of freedom. If you are a vet, come and attend, find a warm, friendly environment. Door prizes. Great chances to network and mingle. Learn something new, meet somebody new. Sponsored by the NGCRC staff, you will feel appreciated here.

Bios

These men are are long time staff of the NGCRC, and are well known for their gang expertise. Todd is also a psychologist whose practice is with vets through the VA. Fred is an investigator with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Lee is a vet who still fits into his issued uniform and teaches gang mapping technology, among other topics.

No ticket is required for the Veterans Reception.

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CODE FOR THE LAMINATED MILITARY-STYLE IDENTIFICATION BADGES USED AT THIS CONFERENCE:

Some badges have unique identifiers that will help you. Watch for these.

A RED star on the Identification Badge indicates someone on the NGCRC's Goodwill Ambassador Staff; they also wear special easily identifiable uniforms; see them if you have any issue, or to report any problems with equipment inside the training rooms.

A BLUE star on the Identification Badge indicates someone who is a trainer or presenter. These are certainly people you need to network with.

A PLATINUM star on the Identification Badge indicates the person is a current or former Reviewing Editor of the Journal of Gang Research, the official publication of the NGCRC.

A GREEN star on the Identification Badge indicates someone who works for the NGCRC: these are NGCRC staff, they can HELP YOU; ask them if you have any questions.

A GOLD star on the Identification Badge indicates someone who is receiving a Thrasher Award this year at the Awards Ceremony.

Some Typical Questions and Answers:

Q: Can I spend more than four (4) hours in my track area?

A: Yes, of course, if your track area, for example is "Gang Crime Investigation Skills" or "Gang Prevention Skills", then you are going to find you have a heck of a lot of choices; you may be able to log in 24 hours directly in your area of concentration (e.g., your track area).

Q: We have 24 hours of training, and if 4 of those hours have to be in the courses specifically approved for the track, then what do I do for the other 20 hours?

A: The other 20 hours are electives: you can spend then anyway you want to, vote with your feet: if you are eligible to attend a session, then attend it. Remember and please note that some sessions are restricted to law enforcement. But most are not restricted. You can attend anything you want to attend.

Q: I am bringing my wife and three school age children, should I ask for family credentials for all of them?

A. Sure, if you want to. The advantage to the family members is that they can get restaurant discounts with their ID cards.

Q: Can the NGCRC guarantee that I will be able to attend everything I want to attend?

A: No, and obviously not for the simple reason that these courses are NOT REPEATED; the courses are offered once and that is it; you have to make HARD CHOICES between 2 or 3 or more different courses, all of which are attractive --- and so, like we said before one person could never attend all of the courses we offer. We have at least six or seven courses going on at once: these are not repeating courses. If you want to attend two sessions that are going on simultaneously, then you would have to decide which you wanted most. Plan B: split your time between two equally attractive courses.

Q: What is the seating style at the NGCRC conference, are there desks to write on?

A: There are no desks to write on, that is often called "student style seating". We use what is called "auditorium style seating". You get a chair, but no table to write on. You might want to consider bringing your posse box to have on your lap, so you can write on that. We do no have desktops to write on.

Q: Do you have to be a returning participant with certification to attend this conference for certification?

A: No.

Q: When I see the NGCRC Training Conference referred to as "Gang College", does that phrase mean that the training converts to, or is equivalent in any respect to, college credit towards a college or university degree program?

A: No. The NGCRC has in its two decades of experience in training actually embedded the opportunity to complete college or university credit as a supplemental part of the training program, but we found that there was very little interest in that option, and we have not offered the college credit option for years. Do some professors who work with the NGCRC offer partial course credit, for example towards some college credit course, yes, that is certainly possible, but it would not be open to the public, it would be available only at the local college or university in question; it is not something you can sign up for with the regular registration application form. The NGCRC continues to work with a number of faculty members from different institutions of higher learning where criminal justice students are provided an opportunity to attend the NGCRC training conference. Has the NGCRC offered CEU's (Continuing Education Units) for some of its courses in the overall training program, yes, but we make no guarantee of offering this because again we found that few people wanted to take advantage of this enhancement option. Does the NGCRC training program include "cross training" by other accrediting bodies, yes, the Mental Health First Aid course would be a good example of this. The NGCRC cannot assure you that you will ever be able to receive college credit of any kind for the training it offers.

Q: What is the seating style, student seating with tables, or theater style?

A: The seating style is threater style. No tables to write on. You can bring a clip board or writing tablet to make it easier to take notes while seated in a chair.

Q: I hear a lot of the hotels in Chicago require a deposit for "incidentals"?

A: Yes, Chicago is a big city, big city hotels do this. Incidentals refers to phone calls, room service, the liquors/goodies in the fridge. You can always tell the front desk they can take out the phone and the fridge and make a note that there will be no room service for your room.

Q: I am a defense attorney or journalist, can I attend and exploit your environment for my personal benefit?

A: No

Q: Do you need to have any specific educational qualifications to attend this conference?

A: No (but you must be 18 years of age or older at the time you register).

Q: What do I do if I am in that situation of finding my top two courses being offered at the same time?

A: Well it is possible to get credit for partial attendance at a session, you can indicate on your Conference Evaluation Form that you attended the session, but mark on it that you were there for 30 minutes or 1 hour, etc. But normally we do not run courses in the same track up against each other.

Q: What I would like to do is sample from a large number of different areas of expertise after I knock out my minimum of four hours in my track area, but how do I know which classes or courses or sessions "count" towards my track area?

A: Just look at the "Session Credits" line of information inside each session. This provides the types of tracks that the session is geared towards. If your track is listed in the Session Credits, then that course will count towards the minimum of four (4) hours you have to accumulate in your one track area. You can obviously spend a lot more than four (4) hours in some of the tracks, that is up to you.

Q: Is the NGCRC training "Accredited" by any board of higher education?

A: No. The term "accredited" normally applies to college/legal/continuing education credits. In past years the NGCRC has offered college credit and CEU's, from obviously accredited universities. Similarly, the NGCRC training has been approved and accepted by the accrediting body in some states for attorneys or prosecutors (State Supreme Court), but again, this is such a rare interest area, we do not seek it out and we do not offer it as one of the features of our training program. If you know someone who should "accredit" gang training, write to us with your concerns as we feel we should be on "their" board due to our leadership in this field for over a decade. We do not have a "static" program, our program is new and expanded every year: with new material added on a constant basis for over one hundred different courses, this is not a typical "gang training program" (where the typical gang training program has a few, a dozen or so, choices of sessions or courses to take: we have much more material and much more diversity).

Q: Does the NGCRC offer "CEU's" or Continuing Education Units in 2021?

A: No. We are not continuing this because there was little interest.

Q: Does the NGCRC offer Continuing Legal Education Units in 2021?

A: No.

Q: Does the NGCRC have any "digital training platform" in case I don't want to go to a face-to-face classroom?

A: Yes. Go to: https://ngcrc.com/videopage.html

THE TRAINING SITE:

The Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel

This hotel is in a classy part of the north Loop. It is situated in the "Gold Coast" area of north Michigan Avenue (the shopping district) by Chicago's Water Tower. The "Water Tower" is Chicago's famous landmark. The Westin Hotel is known as a favorite hotel for sports celebrities when they stay in Chicago. It is easy to get to, conveniently located, well known, and has many amenities to offer. It has scored favorably in the annual evaluations the NGCRC has conducted as well (the Conference Evaluation Form asks attendees to evaluate a lot of things, including the experience with hotel).

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS:

The site where the training is occurring is the Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago hotel.

The Westin Michigan Avenue is located at 909 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611. The Telephone number for the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel is (312) 943-7200. The toll free number for the Central Reservations Call Center is: 1 (888) 627-8385. When making reservations, the "code" for the conference is "NGCRC Gang Conference". They need that "code" to give you the reduced hotel rates.

The cut-off date for getting the rates here is July 15, 2021: Singles $199, Double $199, Triple $224, Quad Rate $249.

Trainees will, as in past NGCRC training conferences, be able to pick up their "goody bags" the evening before training begins. Opening Ceremony is 0700 Monday in the Chicago Ballroom; actual Training begins 8am Monday morning, August 2, 2021. However, you will be able to pick up your registration materials, your Identification Badge, the final schedule, and your "goody bag" the night before: we expect to be able to start giving out registration materials about 3pm on Sunday, 1 August 2021. We will be open to provide this service until about 8:00 p.m. Just go the the NGCRC Operations Center (The Garfield Park Room is the NGCRC Operations Center) to pick up your materials. Signs will be prominently displayed.

LOOKING FOR FOOD/ENTERTAINMENT DEALS WHILE IN TOWN?

For special deals on dining and entertainment while in Chicago, you might want to check a reliable source that Chicagoans use: www.190north.com

The website www.190north.com contains good and reliable information on unique dining and entertainment deals in Chicago.

The 2021 NGCRC 24th Gang Specialist

Training Conference:

The Preliminary or Advance

Curriculum and Detailed Course Offerings

for August 2-4, 2021

Please note that the 2021 program is just now getting started and the curriculum is still adding courses.
This is an advance listing of the courses already approved for inclusion in the Official 2020 Curriculum. We expect to be adding more sessions to this curriculum on a regular basis.

The full conference information is available at https://ngcrc.com/2021.conference.html

This is only a partial, early or advance listing, of some of the sessions that will be held a the 2021 NGCRC Gang Training Conference in Chicago.

There were N = 113 sessions listed for the 2020 program. So there are normally over 100 sessions to pick from.

Last updated: 19 September 2020

(1) “Creating and Managing a Gang Database”, by Sgt. Christopher Moore, Joliet Police Department, Joliet, IL.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

Note: Special restriction on attendance. This session is limited to Law Enforcement Only (Cops, Courts, Corrections).

Abstract

This session examines the basics of the Bureau of Justice Administration’s 28 CFR Part 23, how to get a certificate, and how to use those rules to maintain a database of gang members. Attend this session to learn the benefits of being 28 CFR Part 23 compliant as well as examples of gang databases that have been shut down due to non-compliance, or public mis-interpretations of what the databases are for. Some caselaw will be reviewed in light of restrictions and protections of having compliant databases. Attend this session to gain templates for creating your own database as well as gain insights on companies and organizations that provide databases for purchase and some of the pros and cons on each. This session will discuss some of the investigative methods and sound practices for designating an individual as eligible for admission into the database (Interviews, Associations, Social Media, Tattoo Identification, etc). Discussed also is how the database is used for court purposes and how to responsibly share information with others.

Bio

(2) “A Brief Introduction to Some of the Basics of Graffiti Identification and Analysis: An Instructional Workshop (Part 1 of a 3 Part Series)”, by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang Specialist, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators, Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills, Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention and Intervention Services, Gangs and Mental Health, Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention, Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

Abstract

This course will not only assist the attendee with gang identification and gang recognition skills, it will provide an opportunity to analyze different scenarios to develop the skills of a graffiti detective!

Bio

(3) “The Impact of Historical/Generational Trauma on Gang and Law Enforcement Interactions”, by Philip J. Swift, Ph.D., Municipal Courts, City Marshall Division, Fort Worth, TX.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Prevention Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

This session focuses on the reality of historical/generational trauma and how it affects communities, cultures, groups, and the development of cognitive schemes. Historical examples of historical/generational trauma among minority groups is used to depict the less recognized concept of historical/generational trauma among law enforcement agencies and gangs. The impact of this form of trauma on the initial interactions of law enforcement officers and gang members is used to demonstrate how and why many interactions between law enforcement officers and gang members affect the success and failure of gang prevention, intervention, and interdiction programs. This training concludes with a discussion of the tactics and skills that attendees can use to improve the effectiveness of prevention, intervention, and interdiction efforts.

Bio

(4) “The Infamous Southern New Mexico Syndicate Prison Structure”, by Randilynn Rodriguez, Paralegal-Gang Specialist, Researcher, Great Falls, MT.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence.

Abstract

The most violent and dangerous criminal organization in the New Mexico prison system. Based off the SNM’s prison structure of the symbolic Zia symbol and New Mexico’s map of fear, drugs, respect, and structure of criminal activities. The structure of the prison gang is gaining mass organization inside the prison system and outside with ties to other criminal organizations throughout the United States. This segment will give current gang profile information that will enlighten security and law enforcement professionals about this gang.

Bio

(5) “The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Gang File”, by Grant E. Smith, FBI, CJIS Division, CTAP/NCIC, Clarksburg, WV.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement and corrections ONLY.

Abstract

This session is an officer safety and investigative tool offered by the NCIC for all levels of law enforcement. It provides near instantaneous information about a suspect’s recorded gang affiliation, personal identifying information, and the officer caution indicators in relation to individual gang members. The NCIC Gang File can convey two categories of information, Gang Group Reference Capability (GRC) and Group Member Capability (GMC). This segment of training will focus on retrieving information from the Gang File with an emphasis on how it can be used for investigative purposes and officer safety.

Bio

As an FBI training instructor, Mr. Smith conducts training for municipal, county, state and federal agencies. He is also part of the FBI’s New Agent Training Team in Quantico, VA and participates in CJIS internal training. In 2015, Mr. Smith was the recipient of the Frederic Thrasher Award for Superior Service in Law Enforcement Training. Mr. Smith is a United States Navy Veteran.

(6) “Correctional Intelligence and Street Crime Investigations”, by Captain Philip J. Swift, Ph.D., Municipal Courts, City Marshall Division, Fort Worth, TX.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution.

Restriction: Attendance of this class is restricted to law enforcement/corrections staff, probation/parole officers, and judicial investigators.

Abstract

During this training session, attendees are introduced to criminal intelligence gathering techniques that are leveraged in a correctional setting and the legalities of collecting and sharing it with outside agencies. A case study of the 211 Crew, MSK, and MSN investigation and prosecution is highlighted to discuss the value of correctional intelligence sources, corroboration with jail/correctional staff to “street crime” investigations, and the prosecutions. The shortcomings and successes of this investigation, from a human and technological intelligence standpoint, is reviewed and attendees learn how to avoid similar pitfalls.

Bio

(7) “How to Develop, Select and Train a Diverse STG Intelligence Team in a Jail/Prison Environment”, by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang/Specialist, NGCRC Staff..

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in a Juvenile Correctional Facility; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs, Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills, Gangs and Drugs, Gang

Prosecution, Gangs and Organized Crime, Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole, Advanced Gang Identification, Gang Internet Investigation, Motorcycle Gangs

Abstract

This course will prepare staff to assist administrators as they cannot be everywhere all the time. Participants will learn how to present information and intelligence and develop a highly skilled and diverse team of Gang Intelligence staff.

Bio

(8) “Gang Culture and Social Norms”, by Captain Philip J. Swift, Ph.D., Municipal Courts, City Marshall Division, Fort Worth, TX.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

This training session focuses on the realities of gang membership and how outsiders often misconstrue those realities because they do not conform to social norms. A historical, political, and economic lens will introduce attendees to gang cultural and common cognitive schemes used by gang members to justify criminal actions. Additionally, the ability of gang members to manipulate others due to the adoption of contrasting norms is discussed along with the successes and failures of gang prevention, intervention, and interdiction programs. This session concludes with a discussion of the tactics and skills that attendees can use to improve effectiveness of prevention, intervention, and interdiction efforts.

Bio

(9) “Gang/STG Intelligence: What We Know from the U.S. County Jails”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Note: may be provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE.

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Profile Analysis; Hate Groups / White Racist Extremist Gangs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American county jails. It covers the kinds of challenges that jail correctional officers face in the real world. Examined in detail are those aspects of gang life that impact on safety and security (fights, threats, attacks, homemade weapons, racial conflict, etc). Attendees will learn get a detailed briefing on what is going on with regard to gangs in the context of American county jail facilities. Upon completion attendees will have a better understanding of the national picture of dealing with gangs in the jail environment.

Bio

(10) “The MS-13: A Workshop to Discuss the Impact and Response to the Violence by Foreign National Gangs in U.S. Communities", by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang Specialist, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Organized Crime; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills.

Abstract

MS-13 has spread across the country. This workshop will look at various ways the group uses symbols, tattoos, graffiti and horrific displays of violence (including murder and violent acts including dismemberment). Participants will be broken into smaller groups and encouraged to discuss/list ways to combat this activity in our communities. This will not be a political discussion, but an open group discussion to solicit ideas on appropriate ways to combat the violence this group lends itself to.

Bio

Robert Mulvaney has an extensive background in the Criminal Justice field including positions as a correctional officer, prison counselor, prole officer and STG specialist in addition, he has taught numerous Criminal Justice courses as an adjunct faculty member. He has been a member/coordinator of various research and prevention organizations and has conducted gang/STG related training at various levels of local, state and federal government. He has also written articles for professional correctional organizations as well as the Journal of Gang Research.

(11) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 1”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Note: may be provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE.

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: special housing for informants; racial conflicts and race relations; contraband cell phones; overcrowding and stress and trauma on the job; suicide problems by inmates and staff; the “VID” factor and PTSD; exposure to trauma and stress on the job; increased radicalization of inmates; religious extremism; gang/STG abuse of religious worship; review of the largest white racist extremist gangs; Islamic gangs and gangs that seek to control religious services; the concept of gang density and its three measurement components; gang recruitment behind bars; inmate complaints about gang recruitment; extent of recruitment in prisons today.

Bio

(12) “A Brief Introduction to Some of the Basics of Midwest Graffiti Identification and Analysis: An Instructional Workshop (Part 2 of a 3 Part Series)”, by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang Specialist, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators, Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills, Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention and Intervention Services, Gangs and Mental Health, Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

Abstract

This course will not only assist the attendee with recognition skills, it will provide an opportunity to analyze different scenarios to develop the skills of a graffiti detective! This session will assist the attendee to understand Midwest graffiti.

Bio

(13) “Understanding and Preparation for the Interview of a Suspected Gang/Threat Group Member: A Workshop on Asking, Listening and Assessing Information”, by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang Specialist, NGCRC Staff.

Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators, Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills, Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention and Intervention Services, Gangs and Mental Health, Gang Prevention Skills, Gang Problems in K-12 Schools, Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists, Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation & Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

Abstract

This session will be in the form of a workshop to facilitate discussion on the importance of being prepared, asking the right questions, listening skills to understand what is really being said, and understanding the importance of the gang debriefing process.

Bio

(14) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 2”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Note: may be provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE.

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: measuring the three aspects of gang density; how gang importation is added with joining inside; extent to which prisons report white inmates have a separate gang; names of the largest gangs in American prisons; the prevalence of reports of military trained gang members; names of the largest motorcycle gangs behind bars; reports of gang leaders influencing politicians; pressure to play down the gang problem; political corruption over time: 1994 to present; whether gangs that exist inside operate by the same name outside of prison; comparing street gangs and prison gangs; the extent to which gangs/STGs cause management problems; the problem of housing all members of one gang together.

Bio

(15) “Creating a Staff Facilitated Peer Support for In-Prison Gang Renouncement Candidates”, by Veronica Williams, Executive Director, Al-Fredrick’s Return Inc, Houston, TX.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Faith-based Programs for Gang Intervention.

Abstract

The purpose of this workshop is to extend a voluntary weekly In-Prison Staff Facilitated Peer Support Group to those who have already graduated from their facility’s Gang Renouncement Program/Process. Workshop attendees will learn how to set up this type of group in order to follow-up with the graduates’ progress once in general population. The group also ensures that the participants are using their cognitive intervention skills on a daily basis that they learned while in the program by generating weekly discussion with the group facilitators and other participants. Attendees will learn to generate impactful conversation with Gang Renouncement Graduates, and to aid group participants in reaching their short term goals while still incarcerated. Lastly, workshop attendees will gain basic knowledge in counseling, interviewing and management skills for the Gang Renouncement Graduate.

Bio

(16) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 3”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Note: may be provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE.

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: gang/STG member control of inmate economic rackets; cash seized from gang inmates; stronger gang affiliation after serving time; STG’s smuggle in contraband cell phones, make more improvised weapons; extent of formal gang training for prison staff today; threats and assaults against staff from prison gang members; the 2015 New York correctional union protest billboard portends the future — more protest billboards; whether inmate classification systems take gang membership into account; gangs extort money from inmate workers; whether Islamic inmates have separate gangs; are gang members more lawsuit oriented than non-gang members; the three types of prison riots; best estimate for latent terrorists; who wants tougher laws and zero-tolerance; the scarcity of gang renouncement programs; could improving race relations help reduce gang violence in prison; what support exists for no human contact status; large support exists for telephone and mail monitoring.

Bio

(17) “The NCIC Violent Person File”, by Grant E. Smith, FBI, CJIS Division, CTAP/NCIC, Clarksburg, WV.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement and corrections ONLY.

Abstract

The Violent Person File or VPF is a NCIC file designed specifically for officer safety. The VPF contains information of individuals who have been convicted of a violent offense, felony or misdemeanor against any law enforcement officer. It also will identify individuals that have made credible threats of physical violence towards members of the criminal justice community. A positive response from the VPF will identify and alert law enforcement that the individual they are encountering may have the propensity for violence against law enforcement. The information can be retrieved from the NCIC system using a suspect’s name and date of birth, suspects known vehicle or driver’s license information. The VPF is automatically cross searched with every NCIC Wanted Person query.

Bio

(18) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Note: may be provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE.

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: 3^rd component of gang density; few prisons have programs to help gang/STG inmates quit the gang; small percentage who quit gang life while in prison means basically the first two components of gang density have the greatest weight; gang density adjustment to 63.8% in U.S. prisons is the only estimate with the rigorous three point or triangulated measurement approach; review of the use of 20 strategies to control gangs/STGs; the issue of bus therapy; overwhelming majority of prisons want Congress to pass legislation enabling prisons to jam cell phone signals; new development — about 1/3 of U.S. prisons now report drones have been used to smuggle in contraband (cell phones, drugs); also new — 37.9% of prisons now provide inmates with internet access or email; almost all recognize internet access for inmates creates a new type of danger; few prisons (13.8%) allow prisoner to prisoner email; low grade for federal leadership in responding to the gang problem in the last year; 89.7% expect the gang problem in corrections to increase in the next few years; 79.3% expect the problem of inmate violence from gang members to increase; three-fourths expect an increase in gang members abusing religious rights; 72.4% expect an increase in gang members assaulting correctional officers; and 44.8% expect an increase in radical militancy among inmates.

Bio

(19) “Gang Prevention - Intervention - Counseling Networking Reception”. This is hosted by Robert Mulvaney, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Special Note: 5pm-6pm, Monday, August 3, 2020. You need a ticket for the event, you get the ticket by signing up for it on your registration form. The ticket will be waiting for you in your registration packet you receive when you pick up your conference ID credentials.

Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

Bio

Robert Mulvaney is a well-known gang expert and is on the staff of the NGCRC.

(20) “The Christian Gang Specialist Reception”, by Robert Mulvaney, NGCRC Staff..

One (1) hour

Note: this is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, 2020, noon.

Session credits: Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

Abstract

This is available only to persons registered for the conference. This will be held during the “lunch hour” (12pm - 1pm) on Tuesday, August 4th, 2020. If you answered "YES" to the question on your registration form "I am interested in networking with Christian gang specialists while at this conference", then you receive a special TICKET inside your registration materials. If you answered "NO" or left the question blank, it was assumed you are not interested. If you would like to change your mind, then you must do so prior to showing up at the conference: you can do it simply by mailing the NGCRC Conference Processing Center a letter or memo to the effect “if I was listed as NO or BLANK for the Christian Gang Specialist Reception, I wish to modify my registration data to reflect the new code of YES for attending this gang specialist networking event”. As we need to plan on how many are attending, no "walk ins" will be allowed. And as is the NGCRC tradition, of course, there are "door prizes" at this reception. Come prepared for some amazing testimony. This is open to anyone for any certification or non-certification registration, you need not be signed up for the Faith Based Programs certification option to attend this session, but you do need to sign up for it in advance. We have been doing the Christian Reception since 1997. It is part of the strong positive tradition of the NGCRC to provide unique training and networking opportunities to those who attend the NGCRC training conference.

Bio

The host of the 2020 NGCRC Christian Gang Specialist Reception is NGCRC staff Robert Mulvaney assisted by George Knox (NGCRC staff). The format this year will be a sandwich luncheon format with the opportunity to give testimony, door prizes, etc.

(21) “Operant Conditioning: A Path to Gang Violence”, by Philip J. Swift, Ph.D., Municipal Courts, City Marshall Division, Fort Worth, TX.

Two (2) hours

Abstract

This session will explore the effect of intentional and accidental operant conditioning on the predictability of violent behavior. It will discuss how operant conditioning influences gang violence and mass murders. Intentional operant conditioning as a way of grooming new gang members as well as the “accidental operant conditioning” i.e., violent media, which predisposes individuals, including gang members, to violent behavior will be explored. This session concludes with a discussion about approaches that can be used to “repair” the effects of violent operant conditioning.

Bio

(22) “A Brief Introduction to Some of the Basics of West Coast Graffiti Identification and Analysis: An Instructional Workshop (Part 3 of a 3 Part Series)”, by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang Specialist, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Abstract

Bio

(23) “Starting a New Gang Renouncement Program or Process in Your Correctionalf Facility”, by Veronica Williams, Executive Director, Al-Fredricks’s Return Inc, Houston, TX.

One (1) hour

Abstract

Participants will learn how to start-up a gang renouncement program or process of their choice in their current lockup facility. This will include how to collaboratively form partnerships between security and counseling. This workshop will also include strategies for initial curriculum design. In addition, preparation for transitioning program participants from Administrative Segregation to the General Population community while incarcerated will be addressed. Staff diversity training will also be introduced as an important component. This workshop will also include an array of program processes to choose from when considering the initial start-up of a gang renouncement program.

Bio

(24) “Gang Threat Awareness: An Attempt to Assist with the Overall Violence Proofing of a Learning Environment”, by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang Specialist, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Prevention Skills.

Abstract

What are some early signs of gang involvement that parents/teachers/counselors/juvenile workers can become aware of? What can a parent/teacher/juvenile worker/others do? The allure of the gang is very difficult to deal with. They will convince the newcomer that they are family and they will protect them against rivals/bullies. This session will outline some steps in recognizing gangs/threats in your unique environment and actions you can take to improve overall safety.

Bio

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CHARGE IT:

In response to numerous requests, the NGCRC now takes all major credit cards, defined specifically as the "big four": Visa, Master Card, Discover Card, and American Express. Fill out the registration form, and fax it to the NGCRC: the fax number for the NGCRC is (708) 258-9546

A registration form appears below:

THE 2021 NGCRC's 24th INTERNATIONAL

GANG SPECIALIST TRAINING PROGRAM

REGISTRATION FORM: September, 2020

on-Line Version

Please PRINT neatly or type your full name with any title that you want to appear in your official name badge for the conference.

I.D. Badge Information:

NAME:___________________________________________

Title:_____________________________________________

Agency:__________________________________________

City,State:________________________________________

MAIL AND CONTACT INFORMATION: Where we will mail you a Confirmation of Registration letter for the conference, and fax the same material to you:

Name:___________________________________________________________

Agency :__________________________________________________________

Street Address:____________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:____________________________________________________

Tel. #. Area Code_______ Tel #:____________________

Fax #. Area Code_______ Fax #:____________________

Email Address:____________________________________

The NGCRC reserves the right to refuse service to anyone: Towards this end we must ask that all persons registering for the conference sign and by their signature acknowledge the Official Policy of the NGCRC which is as follows - In order to provide the safest and most educational environment, the National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) works to ensure that all participants at our conference are law-abiding individuals who have gathered to collect and share information about gangs and crime, in order to reduce and possibly eliminate the problems associated with gang activity. Therefore, it is our policy that no individuals or groups will be permitted at our conference who have links to gangs or other aberrant groups and no one will be permitted to provoke or distract our participants from the most meaningful learning environment. The National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) reserves the right to refuse attendance to any person or persons suspected of or actually displaying gang affiliations. Furthermore, we reserve the right to refuse attendance to any individual(s) determined to be disruptive or instigating a negative or inappropriate presence or who is determined to disrupt the sharing of information in the most effective learning environment. I have also read and understand the refund policy published by the NGCRC. I attest that I am at least 18 years of age as of this date.

I hereby acknowledge by my signature the above policies of the NGCRC:_________________________________________________________________________________________________

I would like to attend the Christian Gang Specialist Reception ___Yes ___No (if blank, we assume you mean "NO")

I work in either law enforcement or corrections and I would like to attend the Law Enforcement, Prosecution and Corrections Networking Reception: ____Yes ____No (if blank, we assume you mean "NO")

I want to attend the Intervention/Prevention/Counseling Gang Specialist Networking Reception ____Yes ____No (if blank, we assume you mean "NO")

I am registering for (check appropriate box):

___Certification ___Non-Certification ___One Day Pass (pick which day: ___Monday ___Tuesday ___Wednesday)

I have previously completed certification training by the NGCRC. ____Yes ____No

If registering for Certification, Complete this section ONLY if you have previously been Certified by the National Gang Crime Research Center at any of the previous NGCRC International Gang Specialist Training Conference(s). I received NGCRC certification from (check one or more as may apply in your situation):

___First International ___Second International ___Third International ___Fourth International ___Fifth International ___Sixth International ___Seventh International ___Eighth International ____Ninth International ____Tenth International ___Eleventh International ___Twelfth International ___Thirteenth International ___Fourteenth International ___Fifteenth International ____Sixteenth International ____Seventeenth International ____Eighteenth International ____Nineteenth International ____Twentieth International ___Twentyfirst International ___Twenty second international

SPECIAL TRAINING TRACKS (If you are registering for Certification, you also need to complete this section): SELECT ONE ONLY (this is for your second certificate): I am signing up for Track Number ________ entitled ________________________________________________

(1) Gang Crime Investigation Skills Track

(2) Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole Track

(3) Gang Homicide Investigation Skills Track

(4) Gangs and Drugs Track

(5) Gang Problems in K-12 Schools Track

(6) Gangs and Organized Crime

(7) Gangs and Mental Health Track

(8) Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills Track

(9) Gang Internet Investigation

(10) Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services Track

(11) Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills Track

(12) Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists

(13) Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence Track

(14) Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills Track

(15) Motorcycle Gangs (restricted: for Criminal Justice Personnel only)

(16) Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities

(17) Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators

(18) Gang Counseling Skills Track

(19) Advanced Gang Identification

(20) Gang Profile Analysis Track

(21) Gang Prosecution Track

(22) Gang Prevention Skills Track

(23) International and Transnational Gang Problems Track

(24) Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs Track

(25) Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs Track

(26) Female Gangs/Female Gang Members.Track

(27) Gang Crime Analysis & Mapping Track

(28) Gangs and the Mass Media Track

(29) Graffiti Identification and Analysis

(30) Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention Track

Your registration fee does not cover your hotel room or transportantion or parking or meals. Your registration fee covers only the training itself.

Amount to pay for Registration (see schedule below):

ADVANCE REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or before November 30, 2020: Non-Certification $400, Certification $450

Paying on or after December 1, 2020 and on or before December 31, 2020: Non-Certification $450, Certificatin $500

EARLY REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or after January 1, 2021 and on or before January 31, 2021: Non-Certification $500, Certification $550

Paying on or after February 1, 2021 and on or before February 28, 2021: Non-Certification $550, Certification $600

Paying on or after March 1, 2021 and on or before March 31, 2021: Non-Certification $600, Certification $650

REGULAR REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or after April 1, 2021 and on or before April 30, 2021: Non-Certification $650, Certification $700

Paying on or after May 1, 2021 and on or before May 31, 2021: Non-Certification $700, Certification $750

Paying on or after June 1, 2021 and on or before June 30, 2021: Non-Certification $750, Certification $800

Paying on or after July 1, 2021 and on or before July 31, 2021: Non-Certification $800, Certification $850

LATE REGISTRATION PERIOD:

Paying on August 1, 2021: Non-Certification, $900, Certification $950

ONSITE REGISTRATION: An Onsite Registration is any registration made on or after August 2 2021.

Paying On-Site (If slots are available): Non-Certification $950, Certification $1000

Price for the One-Day Pass: $395 per day.

You need to specify which day: ___Monday ___Tuesday ___Wednesday

I am signing up for the Double Major option (where I get two certificates in the two different specialty areas, it requires me to log-in at least four hours in each track or specialty area, and I have enclosed an extra $90 for this option). ____Yes ____No

If yes regarding the Double Major, my second training track will be: (fill it in here)______________________________________________________________

Note anyone registering on-site: we reserve the right to refuse on-site registration to anyone for any reason. You will need USC, money order, traveler’s checks, bank check, cashier's check, or government agency check to pay onsite.

Note: you know you are registered for the conference if and only if you receive from the NGCRC an official “Conference Registration Confirmation” letter; we send these out PROMPTLY to all persons; so if you have not received one, you are not registered.

NOTE: Payment must be received by the NGCRC prior to the conference itself unless the NGCRC agrees to the terms of any alternative arrangement (in writing)..

Group Discount Code:_____________

PAYMENT METHOD: We prefer checks or money orders for payment. No personal checks will be accepted for on-site payment of conference registration fees. We do accept credit card payments.

_____Payment enclosed in check or money order made payable to "National Gang Crime Research Center"

_____VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover (Circle one).

Card number:________________________________________________________________________________

Expiration date: Month___________________________ Year:_______________________ CVC# On card:______

Name on card: (printed):___________________________________________________________________

Telephone of card holder in case we need to call:_________________________________________________

Your Signature:________________________________ Amount you authorize to charge (total):__$______________

Billing Address for the card holder(Printed): (street address)__________________________________________________________
Zip Code for the Billing Address:__________________________________

Call (708) 258-9111 if you need the NGCRC F.E.I.N. (tax number) or our Merchant Number for credit card payments. Also, call (708) 258-9111 if you want to provide credit card info by verbal rather than written transmission.

Registration forms can be faxed to the NGCRC, the Fax Number is (708) 258-9546.

Registration forms can be emailed to the NGCRC, the email address is: gangcrime@aol.com

(you can always elect to "call in" the credit card number if you are paying by credit card).

Make checks or money orders payable to "National Gang Crime Research Center". Make sure to mail a copy of your registration with the payment so that proper credit can be made to your registration. Send registration forms and payment to: The 2021 Conference Processing Center, National Gang Crime Research Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990.