The 2024 NGCRC 27th

GANG SPECIALIST TRAINING CONFERENCE:


The Preliminary or Advance Curriculum and Detailed Course Offerings for August 5 - August 7, 2024


Please note that the 2024 program is just now getting started and the curriculum is still adding courses. This is, therefore, an advance listing of the courses already approved for inclusion in the Official 2024 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/2024.conference.html


Note: The numbering sequence of the sessions is subject to change.

 

Last updated March 9, 2024

 

This listing includes Sessions #1 thru #114.

 

 

(1) “Gang Controlled Sexual Exploitation”, by Deepa Patel, MSW, Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope, Springfield, VA. 

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            Gang controlled sexual exploitation is the exploitation of individuals utilizing fear, intimidation and pack mentality. Gang members have been accustomed to exploiting individuals, at their own financial motive, at any cost possible. The traumatic effects of these individuals have long term damage to their behavioral, emotional, physical, social and interactional functioning. The survivors, mostly female, are often viewed as oppositional or antisocial as there is a high probability they have engaged in criminal behaviors and in most cases there is a clear connection to a gang member. The survivors’ loyalty to the gang, as well as their exposure to violence, psychological control and substance abuse creates barriers for recognizing and serving these victims. Often times it is these individuals that are overlooked or not offered treatment, leaving them susceptible to further victimization. This session will provide an overview of gang controlled exploitation, how it differs from other types of sexual exploitation.

            Bio

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention education.


(2) “Gang Fights and Gang Riots in Juvenile Correctional Facilities: Prevention and Intervention Issues”, by Ricky Pickens, Gang Specialist/Consultant, Los Angeles, CA.

            One (1) Hour

            Session credits: Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Faith Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Counseling Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence.

            Abstract

            Numerous cases of gang fights and gang-involved riots inside juvenile detention centers have surfaced in the news media in recent years. Criminologists and scholars have pretty much been blind to this development. While the locations are different and reflect all areas of the USA, the underlying issues are very much the same from state to state. These gang riots seem to be growing and intensifying. For example, the 2019 riot at the Gainesville State School in Texas was reported to last six days. This session advocates the use of new prevention and intervention strategies to prevent gang fights and gang riots. This session will review a number of these gang riot incidents. 

            This session provides strategies to reduce gang fights and gang riots in juvenile detention: (1) prevention and intervention strategies for juvenile correctional officers, administrators, and staff, (2) growing concerns if gang fights/riots in juvenile detention centers, (3) what provokes gang fights and gang riots, (4) defining gang fight and gang riot, (5) mental orientation of a gang member, (6) juvenile detention staff. 

            Bio

            Ricky Pickens is a professional gang intervention specialist/consultant in Los Angeles County. Raised in Pasadena, CA, a city claimed by one of the oldest blood gangs in Southern California. Ricky grew up in the 1980's during the crack cocaine epidemic, and during the height of gang and gun warfare. Living in a gang-impacted community as a young person, Ricky witnessed many of his friends and family die due to gang violence or serve long prison stints due to violent crimes. Ricky was resilient and determined not to find himself dead, in prison, or on drugs. For 23 years and counting, Ricky has committed his life to serving gang-impacted youth. Recognized for his involvement on the syndicated television programs Gangland One Blood sharing his knowledge of gangs, Ricky’s experience, leadership, and advocacy efforts in the gang intervention arena have placed him in high demand. Ricky’s services have transformed the lives of many high-risk youth.


(3) “Strategies for Working With Gang Involved Youth in Juvenile Facilities”, by Martha Wall-Whitfield, Ph.D., Principal, Arkansas Juvenile Assessment and Treatment Center, Bryant, AR.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Counseling Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

            Abstract

            In this session, participants will examine the juvenile justice system and the issues that occur within barbed wire concerning youth involved in gangs. The workshop will unpack practical strategies for handling gang issues in juvenile facilities as well as offering discussion opportunities for participants to share their own successful strategies.

            Bio

            Dr. Martha Wall-Whitfield is an educator from Little Rock, Arkansas where she is currently the Principal at the state’s largest juvenile facility for incarcerated youth. During her time in Arkansas, she also has been the District Principal for Rite of Passage, overseeing all correctional education in the state. She taught for six years at the University level as an Assistant Professor for Averett University. She currently serves as an Adjunct for Arkansas State University, teaching in the school leadership program. Dr. Whitfield is a mom of five and a Mimi to three. She has been active in both her church as a Sunday School teacher and the community as a foster parent and foster parent trainer for the state.


(4) “Better Intel and Prevention: Monitoring Gang Problems in Bars and Nightclubs”, by Keiron McConnell, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Faculty of Arts, Professor of Criminology, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

            Two (2) hours

            Session Credits: Gang Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gang Prevention Skills.

            Abstract

            Many benefits stem from having a cooperative surveillance system in place to monitor gang members at bars and nightclubs. Bar, restaurant, and club owners do not want the violence that can come from gang members, so they are usually very cooperative. This session describes a community based gang prevention initiative that promotes public safety by denying members of gangs and organised crime group’s entry to bars and restaurants in Vancouver, British Columbia. Bar Watch and Restaurant Watch in partnership with the Vancouver Police and the CFSEU Gang Task Force have significantly reduced the gang violence around participating clubs and restaurants through partnership and exclusion policies. An examination of recent legal statutes and applicability to United States jurisdictions will be discussed. In addition, an examination of the spread of this program in other parts of Canada including legislative change to embody the program in statute. The program has been credited with reducing shootings and decreasing public fear. During this session the audience will also be given some background information about the gang situation in British Columbia and police efforts to combat it. Could some version of this program work in your community? Attend this session and find out.

            Bio

            Keiron holds a Doctorate Degree in Policing, Security and Community Safety from Metropolitan London University, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement come with 29 years of operational experience with the last 15 years exclusively in gang suppression with a variety of police gang units. Keiron has provided consulting services that included the Royal Saudi Arabian Police and the Peoples Republic of China Police. He has instructed at the JIBC-Police Academy for three years in Professional Patrol Tactics and continues as a guest lecturer. In addition, he is a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he teaches Organized Crime. He is a regular guest instructor for the policing program at Simon Fraser University and is the author of the textbook “Legal and Regulatory Influences for Public Safety Communications”.

            

(5) “Notes to the Rookie: The Truth about Trauma and Growth”, by Philip J. Swift, Ph.D., Municipal Courts, City Marshall Division, Fort Worth, TX.

            One (1) hour

            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; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract 

            In this lecture, attendees will be introduced to the concept of Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG). The unique set of protective and risk factors that first responders possess will be discussed, as well as the higher likelihood of being exposed to man-made traumatic incidents than others. The concept and risks of experiencing PTS and or developing PTSD by first responders will be explored using experiences from Dr. Swift’s tenure as a law enforcement officer to highlight the impact of these issues on the average first responder rather than the extreme examples of trauma, PST and PTSD that are generally used and only faced by a small percentage of first responders (SWAT, Gang Units, Homicide, Sex Assault, Firefighters, etc.). By using this approach to examine PST and PTSD, participants will gain an understanding of how these issues impact first responders and how a lack of “high risk of trauma assignment” can put “ordinary” first responders at greater risk of developing PTSD. This lecture will conclude with a discussion about PTG and tools for addressing the psychological and physiological symptoms of PTS and PTD. 

            Bio

            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.


(6) “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; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Note: This session is restricted. Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement 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

            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. Mr. Smith is the team lead at FBI CJIS Division of the NCIC External Training Team (ETT) and the Law Enforcement Instructor School (LEIS). 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.


(7) “Hybrid Gangs: How to Identify Local Gang Culture”, by Jim Bailey, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI; and Det. Tyler Sutherland, Gang Suppression Unit, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI.

            Two (2) hours

            Both a classroom session and an on-line session. Note: Available now at the NGCRC videotraining page.

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Homicide Investigation; Gang Prosecution.

            Abstract

            How to identify local neighborhood gang culture, what larger gang culture influences your local gang, and how are they being influenced? How does your local gang adapt signs, symbols, tattoos, colors to your jurisdiction which may have originated elsewhere, perhaps even from a national gang culture? How are you tracking your local gang and crime stats?

            Bios

            Detective Tyler Sutherland has been a police officer for the Battle Creek Police Department for over 13 years. He is currently assigned to the Battle Creek Police Detective Bureau, and was previously assigned to the Gang Suppression Unit for over 6 years. As a member of the Gang Unit, Detective Sutherland was directly involved as the lead investigator in a number of gang, and violent crime, cases that resulted in courtroom trials and jury convictions. While participating in all aspects of gang investigations and court room prosecution, Detective Sutherland has been qualified as, and testified as, a gang expert in the U.S. District court and Michigan State Circuit and District Court, more than 15 times in the last five years. One of these gang cases, was the first criminal gang enhancement jury conviction in the State of Michigan since the state statute was created. He is also recognized in circuit and district court as an expert in Drug Trafficking and Drug Investigations. A Defensive Tactics Instructor, and Patrol Training Officer, he has also received Instructor certification for Active Shooter Response for Civilians, through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University.

            Corporal Jim Bailey has been with the Battle Creek Police Department for over 13 years, and has been assigned to the Battle Creek Police Department Gang Suppression Unit for over 6 years. Corporal Bailey has been directly involved in many of the same gang investigations as Detective Sutherland, and has assisted as one of the lead investigators with Detective Sutherland, on many of the same violence crime investigations. Corporal Bailey has also been involved in cell phone investigations, writing and executing search warrants, surveillance techniques, undercover drug buys, and managing confidential informants. Corporal Bailey has been recognized in Michigan State District Court and Circuit Court as an expert in drug trafficking and drug investigations, identifying armed subjects, and cell phone site analyses. Corporal Bailey is currently a K-9 handler for the Battle Creek Police Department and is a member of the department’s Emergency Response Team. He is a Defensive Tactics Instructor and a Patrol Training Officer for the Battle Creek Police Department. He has also received Instructor certification for Active Shooter Response for Civilians, through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University.


(8) “The Danville Model: A Comprehensive Approach to Addressing Gang Violence Through Focused Policing and Community Engagement”, by Scott C. Booth, Chief of Police, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA; and Major David Whitley, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Organized Crime; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

            Abstract

            2016 saw historic highs in violent crime in the City of Danville Virginia, including one of the highest homicide rates per capita in the nation. This trend continued in 2017 with unprecedented occurrences of gang related violence including homicide, aggravated assaults, weapons offenses, robberies, and targeted violent attacks on law enforcement. Gang recruitment and activity grew exponentially in the years leading up to this explosion of violence. The purpse of this presentation is to detail how the Danville Model, created in 2018 was built through the understanding of the city’s history of race relations, gang history, early denial and esponse to gang violence, peak violence, and the causes of gang violence in the city. This presentation will illustrate through various lenses how the implementation and integration of partnerships, Community Oriented Policing, Stratified Policing, Focused Deterrence, data collection and analysis, ad community engagement programs have culminated in 30-year crime lows including a 51 percent decrease in violent crime through 2022.

            Bios

            Chief Scott C. Booth has been in law enforcement for over twenty-eight years and is currently the Chief of Police in Danville, Virginia. Chief Booth first joined the Richmond Police Department, where he served for 19 years, rising to the rank of major. In August of 2015, he joined the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority in Washington, DC, where he served as the Chief of Police. In February 2018, he became the chief in Danville, Virginia, where he has focused on community engagement and reducing violent crime, specifically gang crime in the community. Since his tenure started, Danville has reduced overall violent crime by 64 percent. Chief Booth has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond in Human Resource Management and Leadership Studies and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University. He is a graduate of the 268th session of the FBI National Academy and the 48th session of the Police Executive Research Forum’s (PERF) Senior Management Institute for Police.

            Major David Whitley has 20 years experience working for the Danville Police Department, spending the first five in patrol, becoming sergeant in 2017 working on street crimes and gang homicide. He served as commander of the Civil Disturbance Unit and the Hostage Negotiations Team. He holds a Master of Arts degree. He has had a number of different special recognitions (Award for Lifesaving, VGIA Gang Investigator of the Year Team Award, Distinguished Service medal, Homicide Investigator of the Year Award, and more).


(9) “Inside Operation “Phone Drop” - The Successful Investigation and Prosecution of Violent Crimes Committed by Money Making Legends Gang Members and Their Rivals”, by Detective Vincent Port, District Attorney’s Office, Media, PA; Detective Jim MacIntosh, Collingdale Borough Police Department, Collingdale, PA; and Laurie Moore, Deputy District Attorney, Media, PA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Gang Homicide Investigation; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Victim, Witness and Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            Operation “Phone Drop” led to the arrest of 17 MML members and reduced gun violence in their territory 66% in one year and 100% over the next two. Information from “Phone Drop” was also able to be utilized in the arrests and prosecutions of dozens of rival gang members. This session will detail the gang investigation into the Money Making Legends and how gathering gang intelligence information, in conjunction with a phone recovered from the scene of a gang shooting, led to the arrests and convictions of MML members and their rivals. Investigators will describe how to gather intelligence information on hybrid gangs utilizing social media captures, prison calls, pedestrian and vehicle stops, music videos and cell phone extractions and how to convert the intelligence information into search warrants, expert reports, and presentation for trial. Attendees will also learn legal arguments to make to advocate for gang expert testimony as relevant and admissible for cases where gang members were not only defendants but witnesses and victims.

            Bios

            Detective Vincent Port works at the Delaware County (PA) CID Homicide Unit. Detective Port was previously employed by the city of Philadelphia as an officer in the Criminal Intelligence Unit. Detective Port has been investigating and successfully prosecuting gang crime for the last 10 years. He also proudly holds his mountain bike patrol officer’s certificate.

            Detective Jim MacIntosh is an Investigator with the Collingdale Borough PD (Delaware County PA), where he has specialized in gun violence and gang activity, particularly in tracking criminal activity through social media. Detective MacIntosh is also cross-designated as a county wide narcotics officer and a member of the SWAT team.

            Deputy DA Laurie Moore has 14 years of prosecutorial experience in Philadelphia, Bucks and Delaware Counties. She currently supervises the Organized Crime and Narcotics Divisions at the Delaware County DA’s Office. Deputy DA Moore oversees all gang and gun violence investigations and prosecutions including firearms offenses, drug trafficking, and homicides in Sector 4.


(10) “The Graffiti Identity 2 - Prolific Writers & Crews", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

             One (1) hour

             Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and Mental Health; Gangs and the Mass Media

             Note: This session is scheduled for both classroom-based teaching and available now through the video-based training platform.

Abstract

            Participants will learn how to recognize their presence and how to extract criminal and research intelligence through the graffiti they generate. Reinforcement of the graffiti identity (name, format, and style). This is part two of a three part course sequence.

Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.

education.


(11) “Utilizing RICO to Thwart Gang Violence: A Case Study”, by FBI Special Agent Mark Gripka, Chesapeake, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            At the end of 2015, a set of Nine Trey Gangstas engaged in a month of terror that included 5 homicides in 15 days in Tidewater, Virginia. The FBI partnered with a local gang task force to dismantle the gang and secure life sentences for its leaders. The case study will walk investigators through the collaboration needed between federal and state law enforcement partners to develop a successful RICO prosecution. The case will highlight several investigative tools available to gang investigators, along with lessons learned from helping victims process traumatic acts of violence.

            Bio

            FBI Special Agent Mark Gripka has 20 years of law enforcement experience as a Special Agent assigned to the Southern border of Texas and Norfolk, Virginia. SA Gripka has extensive experience working RICO and Continuing Criminal Enterprise investigations focusing on gangs and violent drug trafficking organizations.


(12) “Tools for Federal Prosecutions and Conspiracy Investigations”, by Special Agent Thomas J. Crawford, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, Savannah, GA; and Greg Gilluly, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Augusta, GA.

            Two (2) hours

            Note Restricted Attendance Policy: Only sworn Law Enforcement Officers are allowed to attend this session.

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Gangs and Organized Crime; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Hate Group/White Racist Extremist Gangs.

            Abstract

            Attendees will learn about different avenues for federal prosecution, specifically Project Safe Neighborhood or reactive investigations, proactive investigations, and historical investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Gilluly and ATF Special Agent Tom Crawford will discuss tools for federal prosecution and investigative strategies while conducting complex, multi-defendant gang investigations. The presenters will discuss investigative tactics including the use of UC agents, confidential informants, cooperating defendants, interviews, surveillance, case management and data/report organization. The presenters will discuss Operation Cellmate, a prison-based investigation where prisoners ran a multi-state methamphetamine trafficking organization and used drones to smuggle contraband into the prison, 23 federal defendants were successfully prosecuted, Operation Cuyler Brownville where rival hybrid gangs were selling controlled substances and have running gun battles in a historic neighborhood in Savannah, GA, 32 federal defendants were successfully prosecuted, and Operation Vanilla Gorilla, a white supremacy prison gang, the Ghost Face Gangster, operated with members of a Mexican DTO and other gang members. Members sold controlled substances, manufactured counterfeit currency, engaged in sex trafficking and unlawfully used and possessed firearms to promote a climate of fear on their rivals. Approximately 78 federal defendants were prosecuted as a result of Operation Vanilla Gorilla and the spin-off investigation, Operation Stranded Bandit.

            Bios

            SA Thomas J. Crawford began his law enforcement career in 1998 as a local officer and was assigned to a drug task force in GA. From 2000-2007, he became employed as a GBI Special Agent. He investigated murders, corruption, sex crimes, drug trafficking and conducted undercover operations. In 2007, he became employed as an ATF Special Agent. He has conducted numerous Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force investigations. He has worked undercover on long term ATF UC investigations. SA Crawford has conducted numerous interviews and solicited confessions and admissions from suspects. He has received numerous awards, including the following: 2000 Swainsboro, GA Jaycees LEO of the year, 2003 GBI Deputy Director’s Award for Investigative Excellence, 2005 State of GA Governor’s Award for Heroism, 2011 USAO Southern District of WV Award for Outstanding Gang & Violent Crime Investigation, 2018 OCDETF award for overcoming technology, 2019 Southern District of GA U.S. Attorney’s Award, 2020 GGIA Coastal Region Gang Investigator of the Year and 2021 GGIA State Gang Investigator of the Year.

             Greg Gilluly is an Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of Georgia. He serves as the Deputy Criminal Chief, and formerly served as the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Chief. He is a federal prosecutor who primarily handles complex organized crime cases. He has practiced law for a couple of decades, and the majority of his career he has served as a federal prosecutor. He has dismantled violent criminal enterprises involved in international drug trafficking, international human trafficking and international money laundering. He has received multiple OCDEFT National Awards, a US DOJ Director’s Award, and national awards from ATF, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and various Offices of Inspector General. He has given presentations on human trafficking and organized crime throughout the United States. He has been a federal prosecutor for over 15 years, serving in the WDTN and the SDGA. His prior experience includes being a partner at a litigation firm, a criminal court judge, a state prosecutor, and law professor. He has tried over 50 jury trials, including RICO, VICAR, dozens of murders, and complex white-collar cases. He is a Mensa member and former professional skateboarder.


(13) “Advanced Gang Identification Within a Correctional Facility”, by Deputy Noah Holland and Deputy Garfrey Smith, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Pontiac, MI.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Internet Investigation; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills..

            Abstract

            Our session will provide attendees with tactics used in a corrections facility to identify gang members through interviews, tattoo identification, source development and cell shakedown tactics. Attendees will learn how we plan and execute our interviews for potential gang members. A basic overview for assessing and documenting tattoos and utilizing open-source material for gang investigation.

            Bios    

            Deputy Noah Holland has worked for the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for 7 years. He has been member of the Gang Intelligence Unit (Corrections Division) and Cell Extraction Team for 6 years. During that time, he has developed various skills and techniques investigating gang related violence in a corrections setting as well as identifying gang related tattoos and graffiti, interviewing gang members, and utilizing open-source platforms to identify gang members.

            Deputy Garfrey Smith has worked at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for over 8 years, where he has been part of the Gang Intelligence Unit and Cell Extraction Team. Before his time at the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Smith had worked at various Juvenile Detention Centers which was the start of his professional experience interviewing and identifying gang members. Deputy Smith has learned how to use various interview techniques to conduct interviews with gang members to get vital information to assist in arrest or helping with safety and security of the facility.


(14) “Gang Intervention Services: Clinical Interventions with Gang Involved Youth”, by Deepa Patel, MSW, Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope, Springfield, VA.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services. 

            Abstract

            This session will focus towards discussing the most effective clinical interventions specific to gang involved or at risk youth. Often times, children and adolescent mental health concerns are over looked due to stereotypes associated with gang membership. Juveniles often enter the juvenile justice system and struggle to address co-occurring disorders (i.e., substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder). The Gang Intervention Program at the Multicultural Clinical Center in Northern Virginia aims to address these exact issues. Understanding the underlying contributing factors to juvenile gang membership assists to intervene and deter further gang/criminal behaviors. This presentation will provide information to counselors, therapists, probation/parole officers and prevention/intervention workers of addressing mental health concerns of gang members or at risk youth in order to intervene with continued gang violence.

            Bio

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention education.


(15) “How to Investigate/Prosecute a Federal RICO Case: A Case Study”, by Samuel Robert Stringfellow, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Northern District of Mississippi, Oxford, MS.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Gangs and Organized Crime; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence.

            Note this session has a restricted attendance policy: Attendance is restricted to law enforcement officials.

            Abstract

            This session provides a case study of a large-scale federal RICO investigation and prosecution of the Simon City Royals. The Simon City Royals wreaked havoc in Mississippi committing murders, attempt murders, kidnappings, robberies, drug trafficking, extortion, identity fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. SCR members committed these crimes both inside and outside of prison. In 2023, the USAO in the Northern District of Mississippi successfully ended a four-year investigation/prosecution of fifty (50) leadership members of the SCRs. The prosecution effectively dismantled the large-scale criminal gang. The session will begin by explaining how to successfully start a large-scale investigation of a national gang using the SCR case as an example. The session will pivot to the prosecution of the SCRs and how to build your case for prosecution in feral and/or state court.

            Bio

            Samuel R. Stringfellow is currently an Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Mississippi. He has eleven years of federal prosecution experience - - - both in NDMS and in the Western District of Tennessee. As a federal prosecutor he has personally prosecuted nearly 500 defendants charging a wide array of federal violations including multiple RICO/VICAR indictments. In 2019, he was awarded the Assistant Attorney General Award for Distinguished Service for a national RICO case involving the Gangster Disciples.


(16) “The Use of Drones By Gangs To Smuggle Contraband into Correctional Institutions: Part 1 of 3”, by George Knox, Ph.D. and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

             One (1) hour

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

             Special Note: This session is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. It is technically ready to view and complete now, before the conference begins. You will automatically get a password for accessing the video training files once you register for the conference.

            Special note on required reading: please read before viewing this video consists of a document located at: https://ngcrc.com/dronepaper.pdf

            Abstract

            Gangs and STG’s have a long history in trying to control the smuggling of drugs and cell phones into prisons. The use of drones to smuggle contraband into correctional institutions began in earnest in 2013. That’s when four offenders were arrested in a drone smuggling incident at the Calhoun State Prison in Morgan, Georgia. This is a 3 part series of a narrated power point video presentation. Part 1 covers gang involvement with inmate economic rackets and smuggling contraband, and new FAA regulations. The problem of gangs/STG’s using drones and a detailed historical chronology of examples of prison drone smuggling is provided.

Bios

             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.

             D. Lee Gilbertson is a tenured professor at a state university in Minnesota and has been teaching since August 2000. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995. He actively consults in the US and the UK with attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and medical examiners in the areas of forensic victimology and postmortem assessment, as well as crime analysis and mapping. Lee has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has participated in all of the NGCRC Gang Colleges. He is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award (2002, 2005, 2008) and the Curtis Robinson Leadership Award (2015). Lee is the Executive Editor for the Journal of Gang Research and is a member of the NGCRC Staff. His background includes a Ph.D. in sociology, MS in criminal justice, and 16 years of exemplary military service (infantry and signals intelligence).


(17) “Gang Controlled Exploitation: Mental Health Treatment that Works”, by Deepa Patel, MSW, Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope, Springfield, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services. 

            Abstract

            Gang controlled exploitation is the sale of sex by a criminal street enterprise. While Gang Controlled Exploitation has been an on-going  epidemic, there has been a struggle to identify and treat these victims. In many cases, children and adolescent mental health concerns are overlooked due to stereotypes associated with gang membership. Victims often enter the juvenile justice system and struggle to address co-occurring disorders (i.e., substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder). It s clear without the appropriate interventions, these victims fall susceptible to further victimization. This presentation will provide information to counselors, therapists, probation/parole officers and prevention/intervention workers of addressing mental health concerns of gang controlled exploitation in order to intervene with continued gang violence.

            Bio

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention.


(18) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 1 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

            One (1) hour

             Note: This is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. Available for viewing now.

             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 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

             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.

culture, forensic psychology, and jail gang investigations.

                          

(19) “Reducing Gang-Related Violence in Correctional Institutions”, by Elvis Slaughter, MSCJ, Retired Sheriff’s Superintendent, former fire and police commissioner, criminologist, and author of ten books, including Safer Jail and Prison Matters: Effective Ways to Manage and Reduce Violence in Correctional Facilities.

            One (1) hour Note: Scheduled for a Monday or Tuesday.

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing with Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators.

            Abstract

            The information that officers do or do not have usually determines their efficiency in dealing with everyday issues in their lives and in their professions. This session provides career law enforcement officers and correctional agencies with effective answers to the challenging gang violence that correctional institutions face daily. It provides distilled information designed to assist correctional institutions and law enforcement agencies in improving their leadership and management skills and preventing gang violence. This session is for everyone in criminal justice, including corrections, police, probation, parole, college students, professors, and the officer who wants to be a game changer and stay on top of their game.

            Bio 

            Criminologist Elvis Slaughter served as a fire and police commissioner, and is a retired Cook County Sheriff’s Superintendent with more than thirty years’ experience in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement. Slaughter holds a Master’s in Criminal Justice and Corrections. He has authored several articles and ten books, which include Safer Jail and Prison Matters, Mentally Ill Inmates and Corrections, and Preschool to Prison. Elvis is a speaker, security consultant, and correctional auditor. He is also a member of the American Jail Association, American Correctional Association, Hammond Police Citizen Advisory Commission, National Sheriff’s Association, Illinois Sheriff’s Association, and former president of he Illinois Academy of Criminology. Elvis taught criminal justice at the college level.


(20) “Online Resources - Communication & Search Tools”, by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and the Mass Media

            Note: This session is scheduled for both classroom-based teaching and available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            Participants will learn the purpose of Google-alerts and E-groups and how to activate them for gang research and investigative purposes. The instructor will demonstrate how to use them for purposes of gang research and for investigative assignments as a graffiti and gang specialist.

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.


            (21) “Introduction to Separatist, Racist and Extremist Groups (SREG’s)”, by D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff and Executive Editor, Journal of Gang Research.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Profile Analysis; Hate Group/White Racist Extremist Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Domestic Counter Terrorism Skills; Advanced Gang Identification.

            Note: This session is scheduled for the videopage only and is available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            This session is an introduction to the various Separatist, Racist, and Extremist Groups (SREGs) in the United States today. The instructors review the founders, origins, beliefs, practices, past and current activities, and significant symbology (e.g., phrases, graffiti, and dates). Call them “Hate Groups” is too simplistic and does not capture the complexity of the problem. The instructors discuss groups that are based on religious belief, political ideology, or racial views.

            Bio

            D. Lee Gilbertson is a tenured professor at a state university in Minnesota and has been teaching since August 2000. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995. He actively consults in the US and the UK with attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and medical examiners in the areas of forensic victimology and postmortem assessment, as well as crime analysis and mapping. Lee has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has participated in all of the NGCRC Gang Colleges. He is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award (2002, 2005, 2008) and the Curtis Robinson Leadership Award (2015). Lee is the Executive Editor for the Journal of Gang Research and is a member of the NGCRC Staff. His background includes a Ph.D. in sociology, MS in criminal justice, and 16 years of exemplary military service (infantry and signals intelligence).


(22) “A Basic Street Gangs Investigation", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

             One (1) hour

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and Mental Health; Gangs and the Mass Media

            Notice: This course is restricted to Law Enforcement Only.

            Note: This session is scheduled for both classroom-based teaching and available now through the video-based training platform.

Abstract

            The instructor will give an overview of one of his past street gang investigations. The session covers the example of initiating two search warrants simultaneously at separate locations: leader and second-in-command’s residences. The course covers an overview of the search warrant return (criminal evidence and gang’s intelligence)..

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.


(23) “How to Engage Gang Impacted Young People: Practical Approaches to Improve Your Interactions and Engagements with Young People”, by Ricky Pickens, Gang Specialist/Consultant, Los Angeles, CA.

            One (1) Hour

            Session credits: Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Counseling Skills.

            Abstract

            Practitioners, teachers, youth workers, parents and caregivers improve your knowledge and skills by joining us for this unique session. Attendees will gain practical approaches to improve interactions and engagements with young people. This session provides practical tools you can use with young people: (1) understand the causes of gang and serious youth violence, (2) define gang impact yung people and the issues associated, (3) explore the effective elevator speech tool, (4) explore relevant and engaging tools to tackle gang and youth violence, and (5) learn strategies to breaking the lifecycles of violence and the interventions that can make a difference.

            Bio

            Ricky Pickens is a professional gang intervention specialist/consultant in Los Angeles County. Raised in Pasadena, CA, a city claimed by one of the oldest blood gangs in Southern California. Ricky grew up in the 1980's during the crack cocaine epidemic, and during the height of gang and gun warfare. Living in a gang-impacted community as a young person, Ricky witnessed many of his friends and family die due to gang violence or serve long prison stints due to violent crimes. Ricky was resilient and determined not to find himself dead, in prison, or on drugs. For 23 years and counting, Ricky has committed his life to serving gang-impacted youth. Recognized for his involvement on the syndicated television programs Gangland One Blood sharing his knowledge of gangs, Ricky’s experience, leadership, and advocacy efforts in the gang intervention arena have placed him in high demand. Ricky’s services have transformed the lives of many high-risk youth.


(24) “Gangs in Central America”, by Janice Joseph, Ph.D., Criminal Justice Program, Stockton University, Pomona, New Jersey.

            1.5 hours (90 minutes)

            Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Domestic Counter-Terrorism; Gangs and Organized Crime; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Abstract

            Because of the strong migration flows between the U.S. and Central America, the links between the gangs in some Central American countries and the United States have been reinforced. Consequently, these gangs pose a serious threat to the stability of the region, including the United States. The purposes of this session are to examine the nature and extent of the activities of the gangs, their root causes, their links to gangs in the United States, policies and programs in Central America to deal with the gangs, and United States’ attempts to address the gang problems in Central America.

            Bio

            Janice Joseph, Ph.D. is a professor of the Criminal Justice Program at Stockton University in New Jersey. She is the Editor for Journal of Ethnicity in Criminal Justice. She earned her Ph.D. degree from York University in Toronto, Canada. She is the author of the book: Black Youths, Delinquency, and Juvenile Justice; and she co-edited the book With Justice for All: Minorities and Women in Criminal Justice; and she has published numerous articles on delinquency, gangs, violence against women, and minorities and crime. She has earned a Frederic Thrasher Award for her research on gangs and has successfully completed several gang specialist training programs at the National Gang Crime Research Center. She was elected to be the president of the World Society of Victimology (WSV) and gives her presidential speech during the 17th International Symposium of the WSV being held in San Sebastian, Spain in June, 2023.


(25) “An Introduction to Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs”,by Dr. Andy Bain, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Criminal Justice & Sociology, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Motorcycle Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Abstract

            This session is designed to provide insight to the origins, identification, and organization of outlaw motorcycle gangs. It will also provide some key notes on differences that exist in the hierarchy of the motorcycle fraternity from identifying clubs, associations, outlaws and the 1%ers. The session will also spend some time considering the role and organization of support (puppet) clubs as a conduit between the organized clubs and society and as a source of new membership. Outlaw motorcycle gang members can turn up in almost every social setting and/or occupation and as such will be of interest to everyone with a role in the law enforcement process. The session is of importance to those examining the development of criminal networks and transnational crime.

            Bio

            Dr. Andy Bain is an assistant professor of Criminal Justice Studies at Westminster College, PA. He holds a Ph.D. in Offender Behavior, a Msc. Criminal Justice and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology. Andy has authored, and edited numerous books, chapters, and articles, on the outlaw motorcycle gangs; law enforcement and technology; and, professional risk working with mental health, social care, and criminal justice, publishing with a number of leading international academic and professional journals. His professional background includes four years with the National Probation Service (England & Wales) and six years running a successful Criminal Justice Consultancy Group, providing guidance and advice to law enforcement agencies and correctional bodies. This, in turn led to the publication of a number of local and national policing and corrections reports.


(26) “Gang Expert Testimony: Bringing Your Gang Investigation into Court”, by Tyler Sutherland, Gang Suppression Unit, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI; and Jim Bailey, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI.

            Three (3) hours

            Both a classroom session and an on-line session. Note: Available now at the NGCRC videotraining page.

            Session credits: Gang Prosecution; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Homicide Investigation.

            Abstract

            How court room testimony and gang evidence will reduce crime rates. What to say and present as a gang expert in court. How to apply your state statute of an enhanced gang crime to the evidence in your gang case. How the stored gang intelligence becomes useful in the court room. How the prosecutor and gang investigator get a case ready for courtroom prosecution.

            Bios

            Detective Tyler Sutherland has been a police officer for the Battle Creek Police Department for over 13 years. He is currently assigned to the Battle Creek Police Detective Bureau, and was previously assigned to the Gang Suppression Unit for over 6 years. As a member of the Gang Unit, Detective Sutherland was directly involved as the lead investigator in a number of gang, and violent crime, cases that resulted in courtroom trials and jury convictions. While participating in all aspects of gang investigations and court room prosecution, Detective Sutherland has been qualified as, and testified as, a gang expert in the U.S. District court and Michigan State Circuit and District Court, more than 15 times in the last five years. One of these gang cases, was the first criminal gang enhancement jury conviction in the State of Michigan since the state statute was created. He is also recognized in circuit and district court as an expert in Drug Trafficking and Drug Investigations. A Defensive Tactics Instructor, and Patrol Training Officer, he has also received Instructor certification for Active Shooter Response for Civilians, through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University.

            Corporal Jim Bailey has been with the Battle Creek Police Department for over 13 years, and has been assigned to the Battle Creek Police Department Gang Suppression Unit for over 6 years. Corporal Bailey has been directly involved in many of the same gang investigations as Detective Sutherland, and has assisted as one of the lead investigators with Detective Sutherland, on many of the same violence crime investigations. Corporal Bailey has also been involved in cell phone investigations, writing and executing search warrants, surveillance techniques, undercover drug buys, and managing confidential informants. Corporal Bailey has been recognized in Michigan State District Court and Circuit Court as an expert in drug trafficking and drug investigations, identifying armed subjects, and cell phone site analyses. Corporal Bailey is currently a K-9 handler for the Battle Creek Police Department and is a member of the department’s Emergency Response Team. He is a Defensive Tactics Instructor and a Patrol Training Officer for the Battle Creek Police Department. He has also received Instructor certification for Active Shooter Response for Civilians, through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University.


(27) “Graffiti - Understanding the Game”, by Retired Detective Ken Davis, Yonkers Police Department, Yonkers, NY.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and Mental Health; Gangs and the Mass Media

            Abstract

            As a police officer, he was a leading member of the Community Affair’s Division’s graffiti and gang unit (1990-2000). As a Board Member, with the Yonkers Community Action Program, he co-founded “Off the Wall”, a community-based graffiti art program that educated a community at-risk for HIV/AIDS through its work (1992-2002). Since retirement from the Yonkers Police Department, Davis has authored two books on the topic, TAG 18.3 (hardcover) and The Graffiti Identity (e-book), and continues to educate sworn and non-sworn professionals on how to more effectively respond to graffiti crimes and street gang violence.

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.


(28) “Hybrid Gangs: How They Evolve and Develop, Proper Identification and Documentation”, by Detective Danny Polo, Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

            Three (3) hours

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Internet Investigation Skills; Advanced Gang Identification Skills; Gangs and the Mass Media.

            Abstract

            This course will dive into a recent case study about several hybrid gang investigations which led to over 200 arrests, 40 RICO indictments, seizures: 40kg cocaine, 20kg heroin/fentanyl, thousands of pills, 70 firearms, houses, cars, boats, $2 million+ cash, $1.5 million gold/jewelry, $1 billion in precious gems. This investigation tracked the activities of 3 major hybrid gangs operating in the north end of Broward County. During this investigation detectives constantly monitored the evolution of these hybrid gangs as some became more structured obtaining international money laundering and cartel connections while others suffered retribution and extinction due to the success and violence of the larger gangs. The investigation culminated with the lead defendant in the RICO fleeing to Mexico and subsequently surrendering after being kidnapped and extorted by Mexican State Police for over $300,000. Mexican sources of supply were identified and are being targeted by Federal Counter Parts.

            Bio

            Bachelor’s degree Psychology. Law enforcement for 30 years. Detective 2016-present, Broward County units in chronological order) Tactical Deployment, Crime Suppression, Organized Crime, Gang Investigations. Task Force Officer, United States Drug Enforcement Administration, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and Explosives. Advanced Gang Specialist with the Florida Gang Investigators Association, hundreds of hours of training in criminal gangs, organized crime, and money laundering. Presenter at the 2019 Attorney General’s FCPT program. Presenter at Broward College Institute of Public Safety, trained State Attorney’s Office prosecutors in Career Criminal and 10-20-life Units. Received the Florida Gang Investigators Association Investigator of the Year Award, and DEA Miami Field Division Task Force Officer Award for local impact. Testified in a Bloods gang member attempt murder trial as a Subject Matter Expert and got conviction for Gang Enhancement proving the crime was committed in furtherance of the gang. Selected as Subject Matter Expert on high profile rapper and bloods gang member Jarnell Demons “YNW MELLY” double homicide trial.


(29) “New Game Plan! Let’s Discuss Current Gang Trends and Barriers to Safely Housing Youth in Detention”, by Michael-Phillip Washington and Chukwuemeka Okonmah, Cook County Temporary Juvenile Detention Center, Chicago, IL.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Detention Facilities; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Counseling Techniques.

            Abstract

            In this session we discuss how we identify major gang affiliations/factions. Street gangs have branched off into gang “factions” which are sub gang that may or may not have ties to the parent gang. New gang culture presents new difficulties in a detention facility. We will identify scenarios/barriers o housing residents safely. Gang culture among th youth has become very volatile. The likelihood of being shot, shot at or being the shooter has increased. Housing residents with these issues have become increasingly difficult. The “On-Site” mentality among today’s youth creates a new set of challenges. With new risks there are new housing classifications. The way detention centers house residents to decrease gang fights and to maintain safety has been updated. The use of conflict mediation as a useful tool is discussed in situations where youth are encouraged to process and meet face-to-face with an opposing gang member because of housing limitations.

            Bios

            Michael-Phillip Washington has found that being in the helping field has been a rewarding experience. Although rewards are not often monetized I have gained a lo of real world knowledge and skill sets to effectively work with youth. The current trends in gang culture have changed over the years but I have learned to keep my ears in the streets and build rapport with youth active in the gang culture. I have worked directly with the juvenile and youth charged as adults within the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center for 13 years. Understanding the needs and being able to tap into community resources that allow youth to make positive changes has been helpful.

            Chukwuemeka Okonmah has always had a passion for working with youth and providing critical services. For the last 14 years I have worked in the capacity as caseworker for the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center. I have also worked as a direct care provider for the youth in detention. I have had the opportunity to work in many capacities in the facility including Resident Internal Affairs which has increased my knowledge base in gang culture and my skills at conflict resolution. I hold a BS in History from Southern Illinois University Carbondale as well as an MS in Rehabilitation Administration from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.


(30) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 2 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

            One (1) hour

             Note: This is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — available to view now through 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 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

             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.


(31) Female Gangs”, by Dr. Charla Waxman, NGCRC Staff, Chicago, IL.

            Two hours (2 hours)

            Session credits: Female Gangs and Female Gang Members; Gang Counseling Techniques; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract 

            Overlooked in gang literature, female gangs are violent, calculated, and organized. They are victims and victimizers and attention must be paid to girl gang members. Attend this presentation to explore the image dynamics and ways to work with girls in gangs.  Prior research published about female gangs is codified to contextualize those factors of prior trauma and victimization that are factors in mitigation for criminal cases.

            Bio

            Dr. Charla Waxman is a staff member of the National Gang Crime Research Center and takes great pride in the work the Center does to combat the threat of gangs in communities, schools and correctional facilities. Charla has worked with gang involved youth and young adults for nearly 30 years and has utilized her expertise to testify, develop programs, and, of course, provide training on gangs, mental health, and adolescence related topics. Her book on gangs, An Interview Study with Male and Female Members of the Latin King Nation is the culmination of her dissertation. Charla has also published two chapters in The 21st Century Social Issues Encyclopedia on “The History of Gangs” and “The History of Mental Illness”. Charla has published in the areas of adolescence and behavior, eating disorders, and anger management with youth in the workplace. Charla has been featured on local news, cable, magazines, and in the Charthouse series; School of Fish! Charla has received many awards for her work and is proud to say that the Milton Thrasher award through the NGCRC is among them. Charla is available for speaking, training and consulting on a variety of topics.


(32) “The Proud Boys: A Gang Threat Analysis - Part 1 of 2”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Profile Analysis; Domestic Counter-Terrorism; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

            Special Note: This session is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. It is technically ready to view and complete now, before the conference begins. You will automatically get a password for accessing the video training files once you register for the conference.

            Special note on required reading: please read before viewing this video consists of a document located at: https://ngcrc.com/proudboysprofile.pdf

            Abstract

            The Proud Boys history (2016-2021) has been one of recurrent violent criminal behavior. It has many of the features commonly found in gang life (special rules for behavior, initiation rites, secret codes and language, color patterns, symbols, clothing preferences, etc). It is shown that independent gang research has previously detected the presence of the Proud Boys as a gang or STG problem in the 2019 national survey of gang problems in U.S. jails. There are many other established and emerging white racist extremist gangs in the U.S., but the Proud Boys are not known to have established any kind of positive alliance with any of them. It would be more reasonable to predict that if the Proud Boys are imprisoned and ended up side-by-side with other STG’s, especially white racist extremist gangs, that they might be among the first to want to do harm to Proud Boy inmates. The militaristic culture of the Proud Boys is examined as well as the historical issue of gangs having a connection to the White House.

            Bio

            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.


(33) “Protecting Health Care Facilities From Gang Violence”, by Keiron McConnell, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Faculty of Arts, Professor of Criminology, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

            One (1) hour

            Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Prevention Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

            Abstract

            This session will explore the challenges of dealing with the situation where members from rival gangs erupt into gang conflict and violence in a health care facility, more often than not an emergency room at a trauma hospital. There is also the matter of managing staff and visitors to the same building or area within the health care facility who may have gang ties. If they are all in the same treatment area and representing rival gang factions, then their conflict may erupt into violence even in a waiting room. Attendees in this session will learn about specific protocols of hospital lockdowns and other measures that can be put into place to de-escalate and prevent further gang violence. 

            Bio

            Keiron holds a Doctorate Degree in Policing, Security and Community Safety from Metropolitan London University, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement come with 29 years of operational experience with the last 15 years exclusively in gang suppression with a variety of police gang units. Keiron has provided consulting services that included the Royal Saudi Arabian Police and the Peoples Republic of China Police. He has instructed at the JIBC-Police Academy for three years in Professional Patrol Tactics and continues as a guest lecturer. In addition, he is a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he teaches Organized Crime. He is a regular guest instructor for the policing program at Simon Fraser University and is the author of the textbook “Legal and Regulatory Influences for Public Safety Communications”.


(34) “Care Theory and Gangs: Implications for Prevention/Intervention Programming in K-12 Schools”, by Martha Wall-Whitfield, Ph.D., Principal, Arkansas Juvenile Assessment and Treatment Center, Bryant, AR.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Counseling Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

            Abstract

             In this session, participants will learn about care theory and implications of this theory when dealing with gang members in a school or juvenile facility. This knowledge will then be applied to practical applications that can be used in the field to help students and staff be productive in class or on site despite gang affiliations. Later in the presentation, the discussion of care theory and practical examples will be linked to Biblical principles.

            Bio

            Dr. Martha Wall-Whitfield is an educator from Little Rock, Arkansas where she is currently the Principal at the state’s largest juvenile facility for incarcerated youth. During her time in Arkansas, she also has been the District Principal for Rite of Passage, overseeing all correctional education in the state. She taught for six years at the University level as an Assistant Professor for Averett University. She currently serves as an Adjunct for Arkansas State University, teaching in the school leadership program. Dr. Whitfield is a mom of five and a Mimi to three. She has been active in both her church as a Sunday School teacher and the community as a foster parent and foster parent trainer for the state.


(35) “Gang Ethics 101 - Don’t Shoot the Messenger", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gangs and the Mass Media; Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators.

            Note: This session is scheduled for both classroom-based teaching and available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            This course addresses current trends challenging the modern-day gang specialist. It reviews current issues that affect how we apply apprehension, prosecution, prevention, intervention, restorative justice, and information management practices to gangs and gang members. There are many ethical issues in dealing with gangs and gang members, and it affects every stage of the process, from investigation to aftercare, even gang research itself. Should violence interrupter staff be required to “warn and protect” when they learn that gun violence is imminent? Should someone who joins a gang remain in a gang database for the rest of their life? Attend this session to learn about ethical guidelines for dealing with gangs and gang members and to share your own scenarios.

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.


(36) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 3 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

            One (1) hour

            Note: This is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — available for viewing now through 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 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

            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.


(37) “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

            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


(38) “What Could Go Wrong? Increasing the Life Expectancy of Your Gang Program: Addressing Legal Liability Issues in Gang Programs Today”, by Michael P. Coghlan, Gang Specialist, DeKalb, IL.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention.

            Abstract

            Gang prevention, intervention, and outreach/treatment programs need to proactively address legal liability issues. A loss control system will help you with funding and increase the longevity and effectiveness of your gang program. This course is useful for tax exempt entities as well as programs without formal organizational status. Tools include: 1) employee training, 2) orientation, and 3) ongoing staff development to address issues of legal liability. Attend this session to learn about actual examples. Loss control tools will be provided, however, this is not legal advice, you must rely on your legal counsel.

            Bio

            Michael Coghlan is a 40-year lawyer who has advised more than 20 government agencies in loss control and prevention of legal liability. His clients included police, prosecutors, and probation officers. Mike served as Chair of the Youth Service Providers consortium which includes tax exempt organizations and agencies. He is also a Certified Gang Specialist, Recipient of the NGCRC Thrasher Award, former prosecutor, and served 8 years as an elected prosecutor and civil attorney for 20 divisions of county government.


(39) “Psychopathy and Gang Membership”, Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, England.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members on Probation/Parole; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention and Intervention Services; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

            Note: This is scheduled only for the digital video platform as Video #8 at the Videopage..

            Note: You can get credit for this session by watching it now on the VIDEOPAGE and just filling out your evaluation form.

            Abstract

            The relationship between psychopathy and long-term gang membership has been established by a number of academic papers. This presentation will give an overview of psychopathy before exploring its relationship to gang membership for a single sample from adolescence to early adulthood, using longitudinal data from the Pathways to Desistance Study. Finally, the presentation will explore the relationship between psychopathy and the offending patterns of gang membership and will consider the implications of working with individuals who have psychopathic traits.

            Bio

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Psychologist and Research Scientist at the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center at Prairie View A&M University. She has an Mphil in Criminological Research (University of Cambridge, England) and an M.S.c. in Investigative Psychology (University of Huddersfield, England). Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. She was a recipient of a Frederick Milton Thrasher Award in 2017 for superior accomplishments in gang research and in 2020 for superior accomplishments in gang training.


(40) “The OMCG in a Global Perspective”,by Dr. Andy Bain, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Criminal Justice & Sociology, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Motorcycle Gangs; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Abstract

            In recent years there has been a clear move to control, organize, and police, the motorcycle gangs (OMCG). This session will add to the body of knowledge, identify areas for growth in the policing of OMCG, and provide for some introduction to the alternative approaches taken in partner jurisdictions. With this in mind the session provides for an explanation of three jurisdictional approaches to tackling the continued position of the OMCG. We will look at the use of RICO laws in the US, and compare this to the VLAD laws in Australia, and the UK where the OMCG members are views as individual offenders - for the purpose of prosecution.

            Bio

            Andy Bain is an assistant professor of Criminal Justice Studies at Westminster College, PA. He holds a Ph.D. in Offender Behavior, a Msc. Criminal Justice and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology. Andy has authored, and edited numerous books, chapters, and articles, on the outlaw motorcycle gangs; law enforcement and technology; and, professional risk working with mental health, social care, and criminal justice, publishing with a number of leading international academic and professional journals. His professional background includes four years with the National Probation Service (England & Wales) and six years running a successful Criminal Justice Consultancy Group, providing guidance and advice to law enforcement agencies and correctional bodies. This, in turn led to the publication of a number of local and national policing and corrections reports.


(41) “The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Gang File”, by Grant E. Smith, FBI, CJIS Division, CTAP/NCIC, Clarksburg, WV.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits (the training tracks that the session gives credit for): Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

            Note: This is a restricted session. Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement 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 

            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. Mr. Smith is the team lead at FBI CJIS Division of the NCIC External Training Team (ETT) and the Law Enforcement Instructor School (LEIS). 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.


(42) “Using a Recovery Model to Impact Gang Members”, by Dr. Charla Waxman, NGCRC Staff, Chicago, IL.

            Two hours (2 hours) 

            Session credits: Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            The essence of gang involvement is a life field with addictive behaviors. From drugs to gambling, sexual excesses, to anger, gang members become engulfed in a spiral of damaging life choices. Dr. Waxman has been utilizing The Connecticut Recovery Model finding the elements to have a profound impact on her work with gang members.

            Bio

            Dr. Charla Waxman is a staff member of the National Gang Crime Research Center and takes great pride in the work the Center does to combat the threat of gangs in communities, schools and correctional facilities. Charla has worked with gang involved youth and young adults for nearly 30 years and has utilized her expertise to testify, develop programs, and, of course, provide training on gangs, mental health, and adolescence related topics. Her book on gangs, An Interview Study with Male and Female Members of the Latin King Nation is the culmination of her dissertation. Charla has also published two chapters in The 21st Century Social Issues Encyclopedia on “The History of Gangs” and “The History of Mental Illness”. Charla has published in the areas of adolescence and behavior, eating disorders, and anger management with youth in the workplace. Charla has been featured on local news, cable, magazines, and in the Charthouse series; School of Fish! Charla has received many awards for her work and is proud to say that the Milton Thrasher award through the NGCRC is among them. Charla is available for speaking, training and consulting on a variety of topics.


(43) “Trafficking Mentality: Understanding the Perpetrators of Gang Controlled Sex Trafficking”, by Deepa Patel, MSW, Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope, Springfield, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            This session will focus towards the traffickers within gang controlled sex trafficking cases. Often times, Gang Controlled Sex Traffickers will seek to capitalize on this market by manipulating and luring victims to meet the demand of buyers. The trafficker may use these desires and vulnerabilities to manipulate the victim, isolate them from friends and family and use force, violence, threats or intimidation to control the victim. Historically, these victims face negative public stigma and often risked criminalization for the crimes committed against them, assistance escaping the life seemed unattainable, further marginalizing them and committing them to a life of abuse and exploitation. Gang Controlled Sex Traffickers have evolved from the early 2000's to present day.Operations in which traffickers recruit, solicit and acquire compliance focus a great deal on coercion, threats, and violence. This session will focus towards understanding diverse gang controlled traffickers operations.

Bio

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention education.


(44) “Understanding the Relationship Between the Individual, Gang Membership, and Desistance from Crime for Adolescent and Youth Adult Males”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, England; and Professor Maria Ioannou, University of Huddersfield; and Dr. Laura Hammond, Birmingham City University.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members on Probation/Parole; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

            Note: This is scheduled only for the videopage digital video training platform. It is available now as Video #2 at the videopage..

            Abstract

            This presentation will use different research methods to explore the relationship between young people and gangs. Firstly, it will summarize research into the offending frequencies for current, prior and non-gang affiliated offenders using longitudinal data from the US Pathways to Desistence Study. This found that although gang leavers continued to offend, they had significantly different attitudes and scored lower on negative psychological traits than those who remained. Second, it will consider how young people view themselves by a narrative analysis of at-risk young people taking part in a UK gang intervention. The findings suggest that future interventions should consider broader social and psychological risks, rather than gang membership per se, to assess an individual’s risk of recidivism. This session will help those who work with youth gang members to identify those individuals who would be more open to attitudinal changes, including respect for the law, within programmes.

            Bios

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Psychologist and Research Scientist at the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center at Prairie View A&M University. She has an Mphil in Criminological Research (University of Cambridge, England) and an M.S.c. in Investigative Psychology (University of Huddersfield, England). Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. She was a recipient of a Frederick Milton Thrasher Award in 2017 for superior accomplishments in gang research and in 2020 for superior accomplishments in gang training.

            The presentation is co-authored with Dr. Maria Ioannou, a Chartered Forensic Psychologist and Reader in Investigative Psychology and Course Director for the Msc in Investigative Psychology at the University of Huddersfield. Maria has been involved in the assessment of intervention programmes for reducing/preventing a range of different forms of criminality. And Dr. Laura Hammond, Senior Lecturer and Assistant Course Director for the M.S.c. at Huddersfield and who has worked with academic groups, and law enforcement agencies around the world on a range of consultancy and criminal legal cases.

 

(45) “Gangs in the Caribbean”, by Dr. Janice Joseph, professor, Criminal Justice Program, Stockton University, Pomona, New Jersey.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs.

            Abstract

            In the last decade, several Caribbean countries have experienced an alarmingly high growth in gang-related violence. These gangs have become Carribean gangs and are now an international concern because of their involvement in drug and arms trafficking going through various transshipment countries. They are also major security threats to some countries in the Caribbean. Some of these Caribbean states are addressing the gang problem through improved policing and law enforcement and through initiating social projects with an emphasis on public health. This presentation will examine the nature and extent of gangs in the Caribbean and attempts to deal with these gangs.

            Bio

            Janice Joseph, Ph.D. is a professor of the Criminal Justice Program at Stockton University, Pomona, New Jersey. She is the Editor for Journal of Ethnicity in Criminal Justice. She earned her Ph.D. degree from York University in Toronto, Canada. She is the author of the book: Black Youths, Delinquency, and Juvenile Justice; and she co-edited the book With Justice for All: Minorities and Women in Criminal Justice; and she has published numerous articles on delinquency, gangs, violence against women, and minorities and crime. She has earned a Frederic Thrasher Award for her research on gangs and has successfully completed several gang specialist training programs at the National Gang Crime Research Center. She was elected to be the president of the World Society of Victimology (WSV) and gives her presidential speech during the 17th International Symposium of the WSV being held in San Sebastian, Spain in June, 2023.


(46) “Cybergangs, Cybercrime and the Need for Cybersecurity”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter Sr., Ed.D., University of Central Missouri; Dr. David H. McElreath, Ph.D., University of Mississippi; and Dr. Daniel Adrian Doss, University of Tennessee.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Crime Analysis, Mapping, and Digital Forensics; Gangs and Organized Crime; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Abstract

            Cybercrime is simply crime that involves a computer. The motives of cybercrime may be monetary or non-monetary. Cybercrime is committed by individual or groups. However, cybercrime is a type of crime that is not committed by traditional street gangs. In this presentation we examine the groups that are committing cybercrime and how they have evolved into a new type of cybergang.

            Bios

            Dr. Gregg W. Etter Sr., Ed.D. is a Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Central Missouri. He retired as a Lieutenant with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office after serving from 1977 to 2006. He is rated as a gang expert by the National Gang Crime Research Center. He has written extensively and presented classes on gangs, white supremacist groups and police management topics in the United States and Canada. Dr. Etter earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Wichita State University and his Doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Etter is the author of numerous books, book chapters, edited and refereed articles. His latest book is: Gangs and Organized Crime which he authored with Dr. George W. Knox and Dr. Carter F. Smith.

            Dr. David H. McElreath, Ph.D., is a professor of Legal Studies at the University of Mississippi. He is the former chair of the Legal Studies Department at the University of Mississippi. He retired as a Colonel from the United States Marine Corps and served as adjunct faculty at the United States Marine Corps University. Dr. McElreath also is a former law enforcement and corrections officer. Dr. McElreath earned his B.P.A. and M.C.J. at the University of Mississippi. He is a graduate of the Unites States Army command and General Staff College and the United States Army War College and his Ph.D. at the University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. McElreath is the author of numerous books, book chapters and refereed articles.

            Dr. Daniel Adrian Doss, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Cybersecurity, Johnston School of Business, at the University of Tennessee. His research interests include cybersecurity and cybercrime, criminal justice, and higher education. His career has spanned both periods in the defense and commercial sectors. He earned his doctorate from Jackson State University.
 

(47) “Street Gangs Well Defined - For Criminal or Research Intelligence", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and Mental Health; Gangs and the Mass Media

            Note: This session is scheduled for both classroom-based teaching and available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            Participants will learn how to apply tools and measurement to street groups for research and investigative purposes. The instructor will also address the groups inner dynamics, criminal activities, colors and lifespan.

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.

 

(48) “Pioneering a Career Pathway for Credible Messengers and the Impact of Hospital Based Intervention”, by Roy Moore, Director of the Portland OIC Community Care Team, Portland, OR; and Rosalee Anderson, Program Supervisor, Portland OIC Community Care Team, Portland, OR.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            The Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center (POIC) program addresses the pressing need for effective intervention strategies, bridging the gap between grassroots efforts and institutional acknowledgment. By prioritizing intentional hiring practices it ensures a workforce reflective of the diverse communities it serves. By emphasizing lived experience and diversity in recruitment, the organization forms a team of credible messengers deeply connected to the communities they support. This innovative approach combines rigorous certification with purposeful hiring, spotlighting the significance in community violence intervention. The strategy holds transformative potential, offering a model for similar initiatives nationwide. Hospital-based Violence Intervention Programs (HVIPs) proactively deliver trauma-informed care to victims during critical moments, reducing the risk of re-injury and violence perpetration. Studies confirm the receptivity of individuals to positive behavior change interventions in these settings, emphasizing the importance of reaching victims during these teachable moments. HVIPs offer links to community services, mentoring, home visits, and long-term care management, addressing risk factors and promoting protective factors for sustained positive outcomes.

            Bios

            Roy Moore is the Director of the Portland OIC Community Care Team. Under his leadership, the POIC Healing Hurt People program serves 3 hospitals across the Portland, OR metro area, advocating for patients and helping to bridge the gap with hospital staff to help families navigate the resources needed to recover after traumatic events. His team of credible messengers works alongside the City of Portland and Multnomah County to be a vital part of the solution to increased gun violence. Roy has served on the Portland Police Bureau Accountability Committee, and the City of Portland Youth Violence Prevention Committee, and was a presenter at the 2023 HAVI (Health Alliance for Violence Intervention) Conference. He is recognized as a national leader for his work in Community Violence and Hospital-Based Intervention and spearheading Medicaid billing for sustainability and longevity.

            Rosalee Anderson, serving as the Program Supervisor for the Portland OIC Community Care Team, boasts an impressive journey as a credible messenger, initially starting as an outreach worker and steadily advancing to oversee various programs. With expertise in managing programs like Healing Hurt People and collaborating with the City of Gresham, Rosalee has made a lasting impact on the community. Steering a team of Intensive Case Managers, she has played a pivotal role in positively transforming the lives of numerous individuals. Utilizing her personal experience, Rosalee excels at guiding others through challenging situations and fostering positive behavioral changes. Having successfully navigated her journey to receiving a pardon, she is dedicated to sharing her wealth of resources with both her team and clients alike. Her accomplishments include certifications as a Mental Health Peer Support Specialist and completion of HEAT training, displaying her commitment to professional development and community well-being.





(49) “The Global Growth of Nationalism”, by D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff and Executive Editor, Journal of Gang Research.

            One and one-half (1.5) hours

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Note: This session is scheduled only for the videopage and is available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            Headline: “White nationalism on the rise in the United States!” That’s only a fraction of the whole story. Gang specialists need to attend this session to learn what is happening with regard to nationalism on a worldwide scale. The instructor describes the global expansion of nationalistic pride and its affect on various countries’ politics, economies, and peoples on every continent. Maps, pictures, and videos are used to demonstrate the extent of the problem and how it is reaching into the daily lives of citizens, formal political parties and their agendas, as well as street gangs and hate/extremist groups. The definitional distinction is clarified between nationalism, socialism, national socialism, communism, and fascism.

            Bio

            D. Lee Gilbertson is a tenured professor at a state university in Minnesota and has been teaching since August 2000. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995. He actively consults in the US and the UK with attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and medical examiners in the areas of forensic victimology and postmortem assessment, as well as crime analysis and mapping. Lee has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has participated in all of the NGCRC Gang Colleges. He is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award (2002, 2005, 2008) and the Curtis Robinson Leadership Award (2015). Lee is the Executive Editor for the Journal of Gang Research and is a member of the NGCRC Staff. His background includes a Ph.D. in sociology, MS in criminal justice, and 16 years of exemplary military service (infantry and signals intelligence).


(50) “The Use of Drones By Gangs To Smuggle Contraband into Correctional Institutions: Part 2 of 3”, by George Knox, Ph.D. and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

            Special Note: This session is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. It is technically ready to view and complete now, before the conference begins. You will automatically get a password for accessing the video training files once you register for the conference.

            Special note on required reading: please read before viewing this video consists of a document located at: https://ngcrc.com/dronepaper.pdf

            Abstract

            Part 2 in this series provides recent findings from national jail and prison surveys about drones and smuggling. Financial factors are examined with a look at drone incidents in the federal prison system (BOP). An intensive profile analysis is provided for specific drone investigation and prosecution cases — Operation Cellmate (2014-2017) and the Muzzicato case (2019-2020).

            Bios

            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.

            D. Lee Gilbertson is a tenured professor at a state university in Minnesota and has been teaching since August 2000. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995. He actively consults in the US and the UK with attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and medical examiners in the areas of forensic victimology and postmortem assessment, as well as crime analysis and mapping. Lee has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has participated in all of the NGCRC Gang Colleges. He is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award (2002, 2005, 2008) and the Curtis Robinson Leadership Award (2015). Lee is the Executive Editor for the Journal of Gang Research and is a member of the NGCRC Staff. His background includes a Ph.D. in sociology, MS in criminal justice, and 16 years of exemplary military service (infantry and signals intelligence).


(51) “Gangs, Guns and Drugs in Canada”, by Keiron McConnell, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Faculty of Arts, Professor of Criminology, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

            One (1) hour

            Session Credits: International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

            Abstract

            In this presentation the audience will learn about the structure of policing in Canada and the impact this has on Gangs, Guns, and Drugs. This presentation will include a discussion on the impact that Canada has in its law enforcement and policies on the U.S. with a focus on the importation of marijuana into the U.S. and the exportation of guns and cocaine into Canada from the U.S.

            Bio

            Keiron holds a Doctorate Degree in Policing, Security and Community Safety from Metropolitan London University, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement come with 29 years of operational experience with the last 15 years exclusively in gang suppression with a variety of police gang units. Keiron has provided consulting services that included the Royal Saudi Arabian Police and the Peoples Republic of China Police. He has instructed at the JIBC-Police Academy for three years in Professional Patrol Tactics and continues as a guest lecturer. In addition, he is a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he teaches Organized Crime. He is a regular guest instructor for the policing program at Simon Fraser University and is the author of the textbook “Legal and Regulatory Influences for Public Safety Communications”.

 

(52) “Gang Prevention - Intervention - Counseling Networking Reception”. by Martha Wall-Whitfield, Ph.D., Principal, Arkansas Juvenile Assessment and Treatment Center, Bryant, AR and Dr. Charla Waxman, NGCRC Staff.

            One (1) hour

            Special Note: 5pm-6pm, Monday, August 5, 2024. 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.

            Bios

            This reception is always hosted by trusted NGCRC staff. Hosts for 2024 are Dr. Martha Wall-Whitfield and Dr. Charla Waxman.

            Dr. Martha Wall-Whitfield is an educator from Little Rock, Arkansas where she is currently the Principal at the state’s largest juvenile facility for incarcerated youth. During her time in Arkansas, she also has been the District Principal for Rite of Passage, overseeing all correctional education in the state. She taught for six years at the University level as an Assistant Professor for Averett University. She currently serves as an Adjunct for Arkansas State University, teaching in the school leadership program. Dr. Whitfield is a mom of five and a Mimi to three. She has been active in both her church as a Sunday School teacher and the community as a foster parent and foster parent trainer for the state.

            Dr. Charla Waxman is a staff member of the National Gang Crime Research Center and takes great pride in the work the Center does to combat the threat of gangs in communities, schools and correctional facilities. Charla has worked with gang involved youth and young adults for nearly 30 years and has utilized her expertise to testify, develop programs, and, of course, provide training on gangs, mental health, and adolescence related topics. Her book on gangs, An Interview Study with Male and Female Members of the Latin King Nation is the culmination of her dissertation. Charla has also published two chapters in The 21st Century Social Issues Encyclopedia on “The History of Gangs” and “The History of Mental Illness”. Charla has published in the areas of adolescence and behavior, eating disorders, and anger management with youth in the workplace. Charla has been featured on local news, cable, magazines, and in the Charthouse series; School of Fish! Charla has received many awards for her work and is proud to say that the Milton Thrasher award through the NGCRC is among them. Charla is available for speaking, training and consulting on a variety of topics.


(53) “Gangs and Gang Violence in Britain”, by Janice Joseph, Ph.D., Criminal Justice Program, Stockton University, Pomona, New Jersey.

            1.5 hours (90 minutes)

            Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Domestic Counter-Terrorism; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Abstract

            The number of gangs in Britain has increased tremendously over the years. Today, there are several criminal gangs in Britain including the Yardies, Nigerian gangs, Asian gangs, and Muslim gangs. The presence of these gangs has caused a tremendous increase in violence. This presentation examines the nature and extent of gang violence in Britain and attempts to control it.

            Bio

            Janice Joseph, Ph.D. is a professor of the Criminal Justice Program at Stockton University. She is the Editor for Journal of Ethnicity in Criminal Justice. She earned her Ph.D. degree from York University in Toronto, Canada. She is the author of the book: Black Youths, Delinquency, and Juvenile Justice; and she co-edited the book With Justice for All: Minorities and Women in Criminal Justice; and she has published numerous articles on delinquency, gangs, violence against women, and minorities and crime. She has earned a Frederic Thrasher Award for her research on gangs and has successfully completed several gang specialist training programs at the National Gang Crime Research Center. She was elected to be the president of the World Society of Victimology (WSV) and gives her presidential speech during the 17th International Symposium of the WSV being held in San Sebastian, Spain in June, 2023.


(54) “The Law Enforcement, Prosecution, and Corrections Networking Reception”, by Kenneth Davis and Gregg W. Etter Sr., NGCRC Staff.

            One (1) hour

            Special Note: 5pm-6pm in the Millenium Park Room, Tuesday, August 6, 2024. 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: Corrections/STG Gang Intelligence; Dealing with Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prosecution.

            Abstract

            This session is the official meeting of the Law Enforcement/Corrections Networking Reception sponsored by the National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) and hosted by Kenneth Davis and Fred Moreno. You are invited to bring your agency patches as you can be part of a National Patch Swap. Valuable door prizes are given to session participants. Many people return to the NGCRC conference as this is an incredible networking opportunity.

            Bios

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.

            Dr. Gregg W. Etter Sr., Ed.D. is a Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Central Missouri. He retired as a Lieutenant with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office after serving from 1977 to 2006. He is rated as a gang expert by the National Gang Crime Research Center. He has written extensively and presented classes on gangs, white supremacist groups and police management topics in the United States and Canada. Dr. Etter earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Wichita State University and his Doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Etter is the author of numerous books, book chapters, edited and refereed articles. His latest book is: Gangs and Organized Crime which he authored with Dr. George W. Knox and Dr. Carter F. Smith.


(55) “Cultivating Confidential Informants (CI’s) Without the Proffer”, by Keiron McConnell, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Faculty of Arts, Professor of Criminology, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada; Sgt. Raj Jaswal, Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver, CANADA; Christopher M. Felton, MS, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

            Two (2) hours

            Session Credits: International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

            Abstract

            Attend this session to learn about the differences and commonalities inside law enforcement gang investigations with experts from both the U.S. and Canada. Chris is a USA based officer and this session builds upon his work on developing confidential informants (CI’s) in those situations or conditions when we are not in a position to offer the confidential informant a formal proffer. Attend this session to gain insights into how to develop more effective CI’s in gang crime investigation.

            Bios

            Keiron holds a Doctorate Degree in Policing, Security and Community Safety from Metropolitan London University, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement come with 29 years of operational experience with the last 15 years exclusively in gang suppression with a variety of police gang units. Keiron has provided consulting services that included the Royal Saudi Arabian Police and the Peoples Republic of China Police. He has instructed at the JIBC-Police Academy for three years in Professional Patrol Tactics and continues as a guest lecturer. In addition, he is a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he teaches Organized Crime. He is a regular guest instructor for the policing program at Simon Fraser University and is the author of the textbook “Legal and Regulatory Influences for Public Safety Communications”.

            Sergeant Raj Jaswal has worked within the criminal justice system for the last 15 years in a frontline and investigative capacity as a member of the Vancouver Police Department. Raj has extensive experience in intelligence gathering along with gang enforcement, intervention and suppression. In 2014, he was recognized for his work with a Deputy Chief Constable commendation for developing strategies to curb gang violence in South Vancouver. In 2021, he was recognized for his superior accomplishments in gang investigations by the National Gang Crime Research Center in Chicago, Illinois, with the Frederick Milton Thrasher Award. In 2022, he was recognized for demonstrating outstanding professionalism and profound dedication to the safety of the communities he serves by the Ontario Gang Investigators Association with the Jim Aspiotis Memorial Award. Raj is part of a select cadre of Police Officers across Canada who are certified instructors in criminal vehicle interdiction training. Raj provides training and education to Canadian law enforcement o current and emerging trends related to the “travelling criminal”. Raj is also a recognized instructor for the U.S. Drug Interdiction Assistance Program that trains and educates law enforcement officers across the United States. Raj has a genuine passion for combining his practical experiences with his educational training. Raj serves as a guest lecturer for post-secondary criminology departments. Raj’s dedication to his community has resulted in him being the recipient of community service awards from within the City of Vancouver for his commitment to the communities he has worked in.

            Christopher M. Felton, MS is a detective sergeant from the Fort Wayne (IN) Police Department’s Gang and Violent Crimes Unit. Additionally, Det. Sgt. Felton is the team coordinator for the department’s Peer Support/Critical Incident Stress Management Team, represents the department on the Indiana Statewide CISM Team Network, and is a member of the Northeast Indiana Critical Incident Stress Management Team. Det. Sgt. Felton holds two master’s degrees (A Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration on Forensic Psychology and a Master of Philosophy) and is a Ph.D. candidate currently writing his dissertation for his Ph.D. in Criminal Justice - Law and Public Policy. Det. Sgt. Felton is also an adjunct professor at two local universities where he teaches courses revolving around forensic psychology, and teaches police mental health to police officers.


(56) “The Graffiti Identity 3: Through the Decade”, by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and Mental Health; Gangs and the Mass Media

            Note: This session is scheduled for both classroom-based teaching and available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            Participants are encouraged to exhibit graffiti which appeared within their jurisdiction. So it’s BYOG: Bring Your Own Graffiti (if you want to help expand the discussion). Depending on the size of the audience, this course is suggesting each person should display 5- 10 graffiti images (bring a portable flash drive of the images, or email them in advance to the presenter: gandgspecialist@gmail.com). Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an expert. It’s an exercise directed towards developing intelligence (research/investigation) from an open source (graffiti). Please make sure your portable flash-drive is virus-free. Your subject matter can include graffiti expressing politics, hate, gang, tagger, and/or art. This is part three of a three part course sequence.

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.


(57) “Mexican Cartels and Culture: An Analysis of Gangs Along the Southern Border”, by John J. Rodriguez, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs.

            Note: This session is available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            The purpose of this course is to increase the knowledge and awareness of military and law enforcement officers on the Mexican cartel activities and culture in both the United States and Mexico. To gain a better understanding of this complex phenomenon, the course will employ a socio-cultural approach by including a brief history of Mexican history and culture. In addition, students will gain knowledge by observing how and where cartels operate and whom they partner up with (i.e., MS-13, Tango Blast, SUR 13, Aryan Brotherhood, Mexican Mafia, etc) to carry out illicit activities. Moreover, musical influences (narco-corridos) will be explored as well as religion/spiritual deities (Santeria, brujas, curanderos, and the Santa Muerte).

Bio

            Dr. Rodriguez’s interests in academia include but are not limited to gangs, transnationalism, immigration, police issues, and Latinos in the criminal justice system. However, I am most interested in gangs, security threat groups and extremist groups. I have been studying, researching, and writing on these groups and their activity for over almost two decades. I have published and presented much of this work in the U.S. and abroad. I have also consulted and testified as an expert witness in multiple cases, which include deportation of gang members, organized crime, and various homicide cases.


(58) “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

            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.


(59) “Understanding Psychological Risk Factors and Building ‘Therapeutic Helping’ Relationships with Gang Involved Youth”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Edge Hill University, England; and William A. Campbell, Kentucky Juvenile Justice Training, Richmond, KY.

            1.5 hours (90 minutes)

            Session credits: Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Counseling Techniques; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

            Note: This session is scheduled only for the digital video-based platform, available now and listed as Video #12 at the videopage.

            Abstract

            This presentation will focus on the stages of building a therapeutic helping relationship and will explore how practitioners can utilize this system for working with young people. The session will also incorporate a summary of key psychological, social and developmental risk factors that can contribute to a young person’s recovery and desistance. It will focus on how support workers can recognize these risks and work with young people to better understand and address them.

            Bios

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Psychologist and Research Scientist at the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center at Prairie View A&M University. She has an Mphil in Criminological Research (University of Cambridge, England) and an M.S.c. in Investigative Psychology (University of Huddersfield, England). Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. She was a recipient of a Frederick Milton Thrasher Award in 2017 for superior accomplishments in gang research and in 2020 for superior accomplishments in gang training.


(60) “Understanding the Roles, Behaviors, and Risk Factors and Offending Behaviors of Adolescent Female Gang Members”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, England.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members on Probation/Parole; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

            Note: This session is scheduled only for the video-based platform. Available now at the videopage as Video #9 at the videopage.

            Abstract

            Using data from the Pathways to Desistance Study, this session will explore the psychological and environmental risk factors associated with female gang members in a sample of 28 participants with a mean age of 16.08 (range between 14 and 18 years of age). The presentation will also consider crime patterns of the sample, and the extent to which their offending differs from their non-gang affiliated counterparts. The session will inform those working with young women who are at risk of gang membership, mental health professionals, and those planning targeted interventions for female gang members.

            Bio

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Lecturer in Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior at Edge Hill University, England. Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. In 2017 she was a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Superior Accomplishments in Gang Research. Sally-Ann has over 10 years of experience running training workshops in English prisons. She currently works with the Violence Reduction Unit at Mercyside Police and is responsible for the evaluation of intervention programs for young py on topics related to gang, criminal, inmate, and law enforcement culture, forensic psychology, and jail gang investigations.


(61) “Clinical Interventions for Survivors of Gang Controlled Sex Trafficking”, by Deepa Patel, MSW, Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope, Springfield, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            Gang controlled exploitation is the sale of sex by a criminal street enterprise. While gang controlled exploitation has been an on-going epidemic, there has been a struggle to identify and treat these victims. Often times, children and adolescent mental health concerns are overlooked due to stereotypes associated with gang membership. Victims often enter the juvenile justice system and struggle to address co-occurring disorders (i.e., substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder). It is clear without the appropriate intervention, these victims fall susceptible to further victimization. This presentation will provide information to counselors, therapists, probation/parole officers, and prevention/intervention workers of addressing mental health concerns of gang controlled exploitation in order to intervene with continued gang violence.

            Bio

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention education.


(62) “The Proud Boys: A Gang Threat Analysis - Part 2 of 2”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Profile Analysis; Domestic Counter-Terrorism; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

            Special Note: This session is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. It is technically ready to view and complete now, before the conference begins. You will automatically get a password for accessing the video training files once you register for the conference.

            Special note on required reading: please read before viewing this video consists of a document located at: https://ngcrc.com/proudboysprofile.pdf

            Abstract

            The analysis takes a brief look at sixteen Proud Boys, most of whom were participants in the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The militaristic culture of the Proud Boys is examined as well as the historical issue of gangs having a connection to the White House. It is concluded that even the oldest gang classification scheme (Thrasher,1927) would define the Proud Boys as a political gang. Little evidence has emerged that the Proud Boys could be defined as a state supported gang. The Proud Boys are more akin to a hybrid or third generation gang. The prediction is that facing overwhelming evidence against them, most Proud Boys facing federal prison for the Capitol attack will plead guilty to reduced charges and the group will disappear into obscurity.

            Bio

            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.


(63) “The Link Between Childhood Trauma and Gang Membership: Developing Intervention Service Components”, by Martha Wall-Whitfield, Ph.D., Principal, Arkansas Juvenile Assessment and Treatment Center, Bryant, AR.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Counseling Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

            Abstract

            In this interactive session, participants will explore gang membership through a trauma-informed lens. Brain research on trauma will be presented as well as practical “do’s and don’ts” when dealing with students from trauma. Participants will learn what a trauma informed school and a trauma informed classroom look like. All of this information will then be directly linked to teaching gang-involved students in schools.

            Bio

            Dr. Martha Wall-Whitfield is an educator from Little Rock, Arkansas where she is currently the Principal at the state’s largest juvenile facility for incarcerated youth. During her time in Arkansas, she also has been the District Principal for Rite of Passage, overseeing all correctional education in the state. She taught for six years at the University level as an Assistant Professor for Averett University. She currently serves as an Adjunct for Arkansas State University, teaching in the school leadership program. Dr. Whitfield is a mom of five and a Mimi to three. She has been active in both her church as a Sunday School teacher and the community as a foster parent and foster parent trainer for the state.


(64) “The Christian Gang Specialist Reception”, by Br. Jim Fogarty, M.Div., Brothers and Sisters of Love, Chicago, IL; and George Knox, NGCRC Staff.

            One (1) hour

Note: this is scheduled for Tuesday, August 6, 2024, noon. It is a ticketed event, you need to sign up for it in advance on your registration form.

            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 6th, 2024. 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 received 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. The NGCRC has 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

            Host is Br. Jim Fogarty, M.Div., Brothers and Sisters of Love, Chicago, IL.

            The co-host of the 2024 NGCRC Christian Gang Specialist Reception is George Knox (NGCRC staff). The format this year will be a sandwich luncheon format with the opportunity to give testimony, door prizes, etc.

 

(65) “35 Years of Chicago Gang Evolution”, by Br. Jim Fogarty, Brothers and Sisters of Love, Chicago, IL.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            Attend this session to meet Fr. Jim Fogarty and learn from him some of the knowledge he has gained about how gangs like those in Chicago have evolved over the past 35 years. The common problems of gangs today have a history. Black, Latino, white have histories which intertwine. But the big factors are: culture, race, economics, poverty, housing, trauma, suffering, and spirituality.

            Bio

            Br. Jim Fogarty has worked with gangs on the streets and in jail since 1987 and serves as the Executive Director of Brothers and Sisters of Love (BSL). BSL is a Catholic organization that has worked with gangs on the streets and in jail since 1983. He holds a Master’s in Divinity from Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, Illinois (1990) and five summers course work from the Institute for Black Catholic Studies Xavier University New Orleans Louisiana (1989-1993).


(66) “An Introduction to the Dark Web for Gang Internet Investigation”, by Dr. Andy Bain, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Criminal Justice & Sociology, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Internet Investigation; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Abstract

            This session provides an introductory level examination of investigating gangs in the dark networks of the world wide web. We will review two case examples: 1. Ross Ulbrict- Silk Road Creator (illicit drug sales on the net), and 2. Matthew Falder - Gumtree Pedophile. In tis session you will learn how gangs are using the net, and the development of networks inside the web. Also covered is a comparison between cyber gangs and “traditional” gangs, examples including: 1. The ‘Black Death Group’; 2. The UN investigation into connections between Central American Gangs and Drug Cartels; and 3. Organ Trafficking/Traffickers on the web (using the example from Pakistan). Attend this session to find out what we know and what to look for in your searches. Learn about TOR and other protection software used to hide inside the web, ho do you combat anonymity network software, and the things you need to be aware of as you work in this area. We will also provide you with a list of key terms and resources to help facilitate successful investigations.

            Bio

            Andy Bain is an assistant professor of Criminal Justice Studies at Westminster College, PA. He holds a Ph.D. in Offender Behavior, a Msc. Criminal Justice and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology. Andy has authored, and edited numerous books, chapters, and articles, on the outlaw motorcycle gangs; law enforcement and technology; and, professional risk working with mental health, social care, and criminal justice, publishing with a number of leading international academic and professional journals. His professional background includes four years with the National Probation Service (England & Wales) and six years running a successful Criminal Justice Consultancy Group, providing guidance and advice to law enforcement agencies and correctional bodies. This, in turn led to the publication of a number of local and national policing and corrections reports.


(67) “Gangs and Their Membership”, by Dr. Andy Bain, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Criminal Justice & Sociology, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA; and Dr. Keiron McConnell, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Faculty of Arts, Professor of Criminology, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Profile Analysis

            Abstract

            This session provides for an analysis and discussion of the findings from research examining current knowledge and understanding of gangs and the people who join them. We make use of theoretical and practical examples to explore the relationship between what we know, what we understand and how we can best move forward for the future. The importance of such a discussion is evidenced through our dedication to protect those that may become victims, and to create safer communities.

            Bios

            Andy Bain is an assistant professor of Criminal Justice Studies at Westminster College, PA. He holds a Ph.D. in Offender Behavior, a Msc. Criminal Justice and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology. Andy has authored, and edited numerous books, chapters, and articles, on the outlaw motorcycle gangs; law enforcement and technology; and, professional risk working with mental health, social care, and criminal justice, publishing with a number of leading international academic and professional journals. His professional background includes four years with the National Probation Service (England & Wales) and six years running a successful Criminal Justice Consultancy Group, providing guidance and advice to law enforcement agencies and correctional bodies. This, in turn led to the publication of a number of local and national policing and corrections reports.

            Keiron holds a Doctorate Degree in Policing, Security and Community Safety from Metropolitan London University, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement come with 29 years of operational experience with the last 15 years exclusively in gang suppression with a variety of police gang units. Keiron has provided consulting services that included the Royal Saudi Arabian Police and the Peoples Republic of China Police. He has instructed at the JIBC-Police Academy for three years in Professional Patrol Tactics and continues as a guest lecturer. In addition, he is a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he teaches Organized Crime. He is a regular guest instructor for the policing program at Simon Fraser University and is the author of the textbook “Legal and Regulatory Influences for Public Safety Communications”.


(68) “Understanding Buyers of Sex: the Demand of Gang Controlled Sex Trafficking”, by Deepa Patel, MSW, Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope, Springfield, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            This session will focus towards the demand of sex trafficking operations. The sex trafficking industry is fueled by those who pay traffickers to supply victims to meet their demand. Survivors of sex trafficking come from a wide variety of backgrounds and vulnerabilities. When focusing on victimization, sex trafficking is built on the economic principle of supply and demand. Buyers make the market profitable. Often times, Gang Controlled Sex Traffickers will seek to capitalize on this market by manipulating and luring victims to meet the demand of buyers. In cases of gang controlled sex trafficking, the victimization can look complex and different across jurisdictions. This presentation will look at a variety of Gang Controlled Sex Trafficking cases to understand the operations and solicitation of sex.

            Bio

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention education.


(69) “Operant Conditioning: A Path to Gang Violence”, 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; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

            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

            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.


(70) “Trauma and Hope’s Gang Intervention Services: Clinical Interventions With Families of Gang Involved Youth”, by Deepa Patel, MSW, Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope, Springfield, VA.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            Trauma and Hope is based out of Northern Virginia. In Northern Virginia, each county offers a unique and diverse area from some of the richest counties in the US to some of the most underserved communities. Gangs operate differently in each jurisdiction which adds a need for a culturally sensitive interventions. This session will focus towards discussing the most effective clinical interventions specific to caregivers of gang involved or at risk youth. When working with minors that are gang involved, it is critical to address the family dynamics and strengthen relationships in the home. By addressing family relationships and improving caregivers understanding, this can strengthen protective factors to help youth make more positive decisions.

            Bio

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention education. 


(71) “The Need for Insider Research: The Opportunities and Challenges of Doing Research Within Your Own Agency”, by Keiron McConnell, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Faculty of Arts, Professor of Criminology, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

            One (1) hour

            Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

            Abstract

            This session will explore the challenges, both practical ad ethical with conducting research projects from within the studied group. This session will briefly explain qualitative and quantitative methods that can be drawn upon for research design. Moreover, the session will encourage participants to engage in work related research projects that are robust and defendable. This session will further discuss the current research by the presenter which as serving as a gang police officer interviewed 17 stakeholders, including 5 “former” gang members, 245 hours of field observations with gang units in Canada, United States and the U.K., and a content analysis of newspapers. This session will be of value to professionals considering research from their own agencies, perhaps as a way to satisfy a Ph.D. dissertation project, and certainly to any graduate or undergraduate students involved in gang research. 

            Bio

Keiron holds a Doctorate Degree in Policing, Security and Community Safety from Metropolitan London University, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement come with 29 years of operational experience with the last 15 years exclusively in gang suppression with a variety of police gang units. Keiron has provided consulting services that included the Royal Saudi Arabian Police and the Peoples Republic of China Police. He has instructed at the JIBC-Police Academy for three years in Professional Patrol Tactics and continues as a guest lecturer. In addition, he is a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he teaches Organized Crime. He is a regular guest instructor for the policing program at Simon Fraser University and is the author of the textbook “Legal and Regulatory Influences for Public Safety Communications”.  


(72) “Gang Mapping 101: An Introduction ”, by D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff and Professor, Criminal Justice Studies, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.

            Two (2) Hours

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Crime Analysis, Mapping, and Digital Forensics; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

            Note: This session is available only at the NGCRC videopage and is available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            This class is part 1 of a 2 part series. It serves as a starting point for understanding crime analysis, specifically, analytical mapping techniques as applied to gangs. Topics covered in this class: the evolution of crime analysis and mapping from the 1800s to present; intelligence levels, divisions, and processes; and the roles and responsibilities of analysts, administrators, and police officers. See the other two parts of this 3 part series.

            Bio

            D. Lee Gilbertson is a tenured professor at a state university in Minnesota and has been teaching since August 2000. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995. He actively consults in the US and the UK with attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and medical examiners in the areas of forensic victimology and postmortem assessment, as well as crime analysis and mapping. Lee has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has participated in all of the NGCRC Gang Colleges. He is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award (2002, 2005, 2008) and the Curtis Robinson Leadership Award (2015). Lee is the Executive Editor for the Journal of Gang Research and is a member of the NGCRC Staff. His background includes a Ph.D. in sociology, MS in criminal justice, and 16 years of exemplary military service (infantry and signals intelligence).


(73) “National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Off Line Search”, by Grant E. Smith, FBI, CJIS Division, TSEU/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; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

            Note this is a restricted session. Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement ONLY.

            Abstract

            What is an NCIC “Off Line Search?” It CAN be a GAME CHANGER for an investigation! It is a special investigative technique available to ALL U.S. law enforcement agencies through the Criminal Justice Information Services Division. It is a proven investigative tool that will search the NCIC files, Interstate Identification Index, and Transaction Log database for investigative information not available with a standard On-line NCIC query. We will look at how the search works and several REAL law enforcement investigation successful conclusions with the use of the Off - Line Search. It is information that can assist in determining crucial information such as but NOT limited to: substantiating or discrediting an alibi, to place an individual at the scene of a crime or miles away from the scene, to track an individual’s movements.

            Bio

            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. Mr. Smith is the team lead at FBI CJIS Division of the NCIC External Training Team (ETT) and the Law Enforcement Instructor School (LEIS). 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.


(74) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 4 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

            One (1) hour

            Note: This is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — available for viewing now through 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 state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: 3rd 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

            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.


(75) “Bigger than Black and Blue: Candid Conversations About Race, Equity, and Community Collaboration”, by Robert T. David Sr., Youth Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator, Danville, VA and Scott C. Booth, Chief of Police, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA.

            90 Minutes (1.5 hours)

            Session credits: Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Prevention Skills.

            Abstract

            This session will discuss how community policing combined with a relationship focused gang intervention strategy drastically lowered violent crime rates I Danville, Virginia. The session will discuss how the combined strategies cultivated peace in the community while the rest of the country began to grapple with a series o African American deaths at the hands of police. Bigger than Black and Blue: Candid conversations about race, equity, and community collaboration will be a benefit to those who desire an opportunity to hear two distinct, but synchronous voices that articulate their unique perspectives about the complex relationship between African American communities and law enforcement.

            Bios

            Robert T. David Sr., Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator. 2020 recipient of th Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Excellence in Gang Intervention. M.A. in addiction and professional counseling. Creator of Project Imagine the Virginia Municipal League President award winner of most innovative program.

            Chief Scott C. Booth has been in law enforcement for over twenty-eight years and is currently the Chief of Police in Danville, Virginia. Chief Booth first joined the Richmond Police Department, where he served for 19 years, rising to the rank of major. In August of 2015, he joined the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority in Washington, DC, where he served as the Chief of Police. In February 2018, he became the chief in Danville, Virginia, where he has focused on community engagement and reducing violent crime, specifically gang crime in the community. Since his tenure started, Danville has reduced overall violent crime by 64 percent. Chief Booth has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond in Human Resource Management and Leadership Studies and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University. He is a graduate of the 268th session of the FBI National Academy and the 48th session of the Police Executive Research Forum’s (PERF) Senior Management Institute for Police.


(76) “Building Trust in a Gang Violence Reduction Strategy by Using Credible Messengers as Outreach Workers”, by Curtis Artis, City of Danville’s Assistant Violence Prevention Manager, Project Imagine, Danville, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Skills.

            Abstract

            In this session the attendee will gain a basic understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a credible messenger/outreach worker and how they differ from but are in some ways like the duty that a mentor would provide. The session will provide a structural approach on how to develop a relationship with gang and high-risk youth based on the 4-prong principals of trust, respect, consistency, and dependability.

            Bio

            I am the City of Danville’s Asst. Violence Prevention Manager of Project Imagine which is a nationally recognized community violence collaborative model. I am a certified gang specialist with over 20 years of lived experience. Also, I have been a Peer Recovery Specialist for the past 6 years. Over the course of this time, I have assisted individuals who desire to change their lives accomplish their goal. As a member of the local reentry council, I have dedicated my life to providing opportunities for those in need of resources as they journey towards success. I hold a bachelor’s in criminal justice/sociology. I am the author of Leading By Example: Credible Messenger Basics. This is a guide to a structural approach to developing relationships with at risk youth.


(77) “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: this session is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. So it is available online now through Aug. 2, 2023.

            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

            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.

 

(78) “Investigating and Prosecuting an OMG: A Case Study”, by Special Agent Lee Hoover, ATF; and Investigator Pete Delatorre, Richmond Hill Police Department, Richmond Hill, GA.

            90 minutes (1.5 hrs)

            Session credits: Motorcycle gangs; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Prosecution; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

            Restricted session: Law Enforcement, Prosecution, and Official Criminal Justice only.

            Abstract

            Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs exist in every state in our country and their reach extends from the largest cities to the smallest towns. Many of these motorcycle gangs in America also have affiliations with gangs and organized crime groups in a number of foreign countries. This class concerns the investigation and charging decisions from incident through indictment of an Outlaw Motorcycle Gang in the Savannah region of the State of Georgia and the lessons learned by the prosecutor and investigators.

            Bios

            ATF Agent Lee Hoover is an accomplished ATF agent with 21 years of experience managing complex, multi-jurisdictional crimes of violence including arson and explosives offenses, armed career criminals, organized crime, and the unlawful use, manufacture and possession of firearms. She is also a Certified Fire Investigator and a member of ATF’s National Response Team.

            Pete Delatorre is an investigator with the Richmond Hill Police Department. He is in his 24th year in law enforcement with most of the time spent working plain clothes assignments working narcotics, gangs, and violent crime investigations. He has the basic gang investigations certificate and has investigated numerous street gangs in his career.


(79) “Off the Wall — A Graffiti Art Program”, by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

            Abstract

            Participants will be introduced to a community-based graffiti art program that recruited graffiti writers, graffiti artists, and gang members to educate communities at-risk for HIV/AIDS from 1992-2002. Their messages, on health awareness, were delivered through elaborate hip-hop graffiti formats commonly known as throw-ups, pieces, and productions. 

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.


(80) “The Use of Drones By Gangs To Smuggle Contraband into Correctional Institutions: Part 3 of 3”, by George Knox, Ph.D. and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

            Special Note: This session is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. It is technically ready to view and complete now, before the conference begins. You will automatically get a password for accessing the video training files once you register for the conference.

            Special note on required reading: please read before viewing this video consists of a document located at: https://ngcrc.com/dronepaper.pdf

            Abstract

            Part 3 provides two more important drone investigation and prosecution case studies — th Kinser case (2018-2020) and the Fort Dix case (2018-2020). The less successful prosecution case involving the 107 Hoover Crips case in the incident at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary is reviewed. Possible covert indicators of drone smuggling are reviewed along with a listing of the most common types of contraband smuggled into prisons. Drone countermeasures and assistance to correctional agencies is discussed. A short 20-question quiz covers the full 3-part training video series.

            Bios

            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.

            D. Lee Gilbertson is a tenured professor at a state university in Minnesota and has been teaching since August 2000. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995. He actively consults in the US and the UK with attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and medical examiners in the areas of forensic victimology and postmortem assessment, as well as crime analysis and mapping. Lee has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has participated in all of the NGCRC Gang Colleges. He is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award (2002, 2005, 2008) and the Curtis Robinson Leadership Award (2015). Lee is the Executive Editor for the Journal of Gang Research and is a member of the NGCRC Staff. His background includes a Ph.D. in sociology.

(81) “History of Gang Research: Ivory Tower Meets Street Corner Cop”, by Keiron McConnell, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Faculty of Arts, Professor of Criminology, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

            One (1) hour

            Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Prosecution.

            Abstract

            This session will explore how the history of gang research has been translated into gang crime investigation and prosecution. It is really the matter of the applicability of the research findings to the policing function and legal process. Some ideas clearly have a more salient concern to law enforcement than others. Attend this session to gain insights on how the history of gang research since the time of Thrasher and the present has had a chance to get applied in the real world of gang crime investigation and prosecution.

            Bios

            Keiron holds a Doctorate Degree in Policing, Security and Community Safety from Metropolitan London University, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement come with 29 years of operational experience with the last 15 years exclusively in gang suppression with a variety of police gang units. Keiron has provided consulting services that included the Royal Saudi Arabian Police and the Peoples Republic of China Police. He has instructed at the JIBC-Police Academy for three years in Professional Patrol Tactics and continues as a guest lecturer. In addition, he is a faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he teaches Organized Crime. He is a regular guest instructor for the policing program at Simon Fraser University and is the author of the textbook “Legal and Regulatory Influences for Public Safety Communications”.

            A second well-known gang researcher has been invited to co-present with Keiron for this session and his information will be posted here when and if the formal paper work is completed.


(82) “Chicago Gangs: Criminal Networks and Nexus to Cartel, Organized Crime, and Terror”, by Aaron Cunningham, Chicago Police Department (retired), Chicago, IL.

            Two (2) hours

            Note: This session is restricted to Law Enforcement.

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Homicide Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Domestic Counter-Terrorism; Gangs and Organized Crime.

            Abstract

            This presentation will provide an executive overview of Chicago’s criminal street gangs, factions, and the violent intermural competition over criminal enterprise. Case studies will illuminate gang nexus and network relationship to cartel, organized crimes, and public corruption.

            Bio

            Aaron Cunningham has (25) years of law enforcement experience and retired a 24-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department last assigned to CPIC Fusion Center, Bureau of Counter Terrorism & Special Operations. He is a highly decorated officer with extensive gang experience and past assignments to USATF PSN Task Force, Area Gun Team, Tactical Teams, District Intelligence Officer, and Patrol. His experience entailed joint activity with Federal, State, Local partner agencies, task force, and HIDTA/OCDEFT operations.

            Past performance also includes organization of large format platform-based training events to include the 1st and 2nd International Counter-Terrorism Conference (2012, 2013) for National-level components with intelligence, defense, and police agencies hosted by the Korean National Police Agency, South Korea. Aaron further led an officer survival project, Uso Tactico de la Fuerza y Supervivencia Policial, over (7) years for more than (950) members of El Salvador’s Policia Nacional Civil.


(83) “The Targeted Killing of Police Officers by Gangs in El Salvador: A Current Trend in Criminal Tactics”, by Aaron Cunningham, Retired, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL; Luis Alonso Montalvo Flores, Policia Nacional Civil, El Salvador; and Lt. Lawrence Lujan, El Paso Police Department, El Paso, TX.

            Two (2) hours  

            Note: This session is restricted to Law Enforcement.

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Homicide Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Domestic Counter-Terrorism.

            Abstract

            This presentation will conduct a survey of assassinations and targeted killings of law enforcement members by criminal organizations within the Northern Triangle region and El Salvador with a focus from 2015 to date. Salvadoran gangs have targeted police officers and police families in numerous ambush attacks resulting in death, primarily when off-duty and alone. The two primary transnational organized crime groups or gangs responsible for these killings are the Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and Barrio 18 organizations. These gangs are also engaged in historical competition over territory and economic control of extortion rackets, kidnaping, and narcotics sales. An overview will be provided of the current threat situation, national response, and programmatic initiatives aimed at addressing this problem.

            Bio

            Aaron Cunningham has (25) years of law enforcement experience and retired a 24-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department last assigned to CPIC Fusion Center, Bureau of Counter Terrorism & Special Operations. He is a highly decorated officer with extensive gang experience and past assignments to USATF PSN Task Force, Area Gun Team, Tactical Teams, District Intelligence Officer, and Patrol. His experience entailed joint activity with Federal, State, Local partner agencies, task force, and HIDTA/OCDEFT operations.

            Past performance also includes organization of large format platform-based training events to include the 1st and 2nd International Counter-Terrorism Conference (2012, 2013) for National-level components with intelligence, defense, and police agencies hosted by the Korean National Police Agency, South Korea. Aaron further led an officer survival project, Uso Tactico de la Fuerza y Supervivencia Policial, over (7) years for more than (950) members of El Salvador’s Policia Nacional Civil.

            Luis Flores-Montalvo is a decorated 29 year veteran of El Salvador’s Policia National Civil including ten years with the Grupo Maritimo Policial (GMP) where he conducted interagency work with DEA. Luis is an accomplished in-service training instructor with long term roles in specialized training. He is currently involved in an Officer Survival training project with El Salvador’s Policia Nacional Civil (PNC). He is also a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award from the NGCRC.

            Lawrence Lujan has led a distinguished (33) year career with the El Paso Police Department (EPD) since 1990. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy (Class 274), and a past Chief Judge, Pueblo at National American Indian Court Judges Association. Lawrence served as Gang Unit Lieutenant, Gang Unit field officer, and tactical team experience with EPD SWAT, Mountain Rescue, and Anti-Burglary. Lawrence has worked alongside the Policia National Civil with ITTA’s ongoing Officer Survival Project ‘Uso Tactica de la Fuerza y Sobrevivencia Policial’.

 

(84) “Activities that Work for Having Group Discussions in Gang Counseling”, by Dr. Charla Waxman, NGCRC Staff, Chicago, IL.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Prevention Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract

            This presentation will explore some ways to facilitate one on one or group discussions in ways that are fun, engaging, and practical. Whether you work in prevention, intervention, or treatment, this training is for you. This session is a “hands on” way of showing you how to use specific activities that work every time! Really, it’s true. Attend this session to learn how to be a better group facilitator when doing prevention and intervention work.

            Bio

            Dr. Charla Waxman is the Community Liaison at Lake Behavioral Hospital. She has served in many roles in the field of mental health over the years, including overseeing several clinical programs in both inpatient and outpatient settings as a program director and administrator. Charla is passionate about developing relationships, strategizing and problem solving and ultimately working to meet the needs of patients and clients. Charla also enjoys presenting and training on a variety of mental health topics and has trained nationally and internationally on topics related to aggression and youth counter cultures. Charla is a published author in the fields of mental health, gangs, and adolescent behavior. She has been awarded locally and nationally for her work with gang-involved and difficult to reach youth.


(85) “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

            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.

              

(86) “Gang Victim and Witness Protection Services: Challenges for Our Times”, by Elvis Slaughter, MSCJ, Retired Sheriff’s Superintendent, former fire and police commissioner, criminologist, and author of ten books, including Preschool to Prison: Is It Determined by the School, Environment, or Parent?

            One (1) hour Note: Scheduled for a Monday or Tuesday.

            Session credits: Gang Victim, Witness, Survivor Services; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

            Abstract

            It is common for victims and witnesses to be intimidated into not cooperating with the criminal justice system. This presentation focuses on the impact of gang-related violence with the goal of better understanding the growing complexities surrounding the victims, witnesses, and survivors of gang violence. In this presentation, we will also look at programs and services to help victims of gang violence. Given the dynamic nature of gang-related violence today, we aim to examine the following: common challenges faced by victims; reasons victims of gang violence fail to pursue their rights; witnesses and survivors common issues; key components of a user-friendly gang victim assistance program; and agencies and programs helping victims of gang violence.

            Bio 

            Criminologist Elvis Slaughter served as a fire and police commissioner, and is a retired Cook County Sheriff’s Superintendent with more than thirty years’ experience in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement. Slaughter holds a Master’s in Criminal Justice and Corrections. He has authored several articles and ten books, which include Safer Jail and Prison Matters, Mentally Ill Inmates and Corrections, and Preschool to Prison. Elvis is a speaker, security consultant, and correctional auditor. He is also a member of the American Jail Association, American Correctional Association, Hammond Police Citizen Advisory Commission, National Sheriff’s Association, Illinois Sheriff’s Association, and former president of he Illinois Academy of Criminology. Elvis taught criminal justice at the college level.

 

(87) “The Probation Officers/Court Staff Reception” by Deepa Patel, CSOTP, LCSW and co-host Dr. Andy Bain, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Criminal Justice & Sociology, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA.

.          One (1) hour

            Session Credits: Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole.

            Abstract

             This is a special reception for probation officers (juvenile and adult - - - county, state, and federal) and court personnel. It is held during the lunch hour on Monday. The purpose is to express appreciation to probation officers for their service in upholding the rule of law. If you are a probation officer or work for the court, 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. You need to sign up for it in advance as it is a ticketed event. You can sign up for it on your registration form.

             Bios

            Deepa Patel is the Co-Founder of Trauma and Hope. Trauma and Hope specifically focuses towards survivors of violence, sexual exploitation, gang prevention and intervention, and sex offender evaluations and treatment. Deepa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and a Gang Specialist through the National Gang Crime Research Center. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients, specifically juvenile and adult gang members, survivors of sexual trauma, and sex offenders. Deepa draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to support individual and families. She specializes in developmental trauma, complex trauma and mood disorders. She uses trauma-focused modalities to support traumatized individuals and families. Deepa is clinically trained in modalities such as Havening, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ad Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT). She has extensive experience in the field of trauma and has been in the field since the early 2000's. Most recently, Deepa was selected for the Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking formed by Governor Youngkin to enhance services for survivors, increase response from law enforcement and prosecution and enhance prevention education.

             Dr. Andy Bain is an assistant professor of Criminal Justice Studies at Westminster College, PA. He holds a Ph.D. in Offender Behavior, a Msc. Criminal Justice and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology. Andy has authored, and edited numerous books, chapters, and articles, on the outlaw motorcycle gangs; law enforcement and technology; and, professional risk working with mental health, social care, and criminal justice, publishing with a number of leading international academic and professional journals. His professional background includes four years with the National Probation Service (England & Wales) and six years running a successful Criminal Justice Consultancy Group, providing guidance and advice to law enforcement agencies and correctional bodies. This, in turn led to the publication of a number of local and national policing and corrections reports.

 (88) “Street Gangs to Terrorism Affiliation”, by Michael P. Coghlan, Gang Specialist, DeKalb, IL.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Prosecution; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

            Note: This session is scheduled for both classroom-based teaching and available now through the video-based training platform.

            Abstract

            This session provides an examination of the nexus in the relationship between gang organization and terrorist groups. It reviews the commonality in the 44 states which have a criminal code definition of gangs. It also examines the ideological connection between gangs and terrorist organizations. This session provides an examination of what is necessary for a conviction. It examines the elements of the criminal conspiracy. Covers gangs and terrorist groups such as the El Rukns, Muslim Brotherhood, Holy Land Foundation, Hezbollah.

            Bio

            Michael Coghlan is a 40-year lawyer who has advised more than 20 government agencies in loss control and prevention of legal liability. His clients included police, prosecutors, and probation officers. Mike served as Chair of the Youth Service Providers consortium which includes IRS tax exempt organizations and agencies. He is also a Certified Gang Specialist, Recipient of the NGCRC Thrasher Award, former prosecutor, and served 8 years as an elected prosecutor and civil attorney for 20 divisions of county government.

 

(89) “Within a Decade: An Overview of a Municipality’s Efforts to Reduce Graffiti Crimes and Street Gang Violence Within Its City”, by Retired Detective Ken Davis, Yonkers Police Department, Yonkers, NY.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and Mental Health; Gangs and the Mass Media

            Abstract

            As a police officer, he was a leading member of the Community Affair’s Division’s graffiti and gang unit (1990-2000). As a Board Member, with the Yonkers Community Action Program, he co-founded “Off the Wall”, a community-based graffiti art program that educated a community at-risk for HIV/AIDS through its work (1992-2002). Since retirement from the Yonkers Police Department, Davis has authored two books on the topic, TAG 18.3 (hardcover) and The Graffiti Identity (e-book), and continues to educate sworn and non-sworn professionals on how to more effectively respond to graffiti crimes and street gang violence.

            Bio

            Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.

 

(90) “Comparison of Prison Gangs in the U.S. with Other Prison Gangs Around the Globe”, by Mitchel P. Roth, Ph.D., Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Sam Houston State University, Houston, TX.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gang Profile Analysis; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs.

            Abstract

            This session will look at prison gangs and their development from a perspective of American exceptionalism. It will cover the race-based nature of most American prison gangs over the years, focusing on White Nationalist/Supremacist gangs, Hispanic gangs, Native American gangs, and will look at their evolution over the past decades. Once the foundation of most modern American prison gangs is established, the session will compare inmate governance and inmate-staff relations in other prison systems to that of the United States. It will also compare the evolution of gangs in other countries with that of the United States.

            Bio

            Mitchel P. Roth, Ph.D. is Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Sam Houston State University. His areas of interest include global organized crime and gangs, history of crime and punishment, mass murder and serial homicide. His many books include, Power on the Inside: A Global History of Prison Gangs (2020), Fire in the Big House: The Worst Prison Disaster in American History (2019), The Illicit Economy in Turkey (with Mahmut Cengiz)(2019), An Eye for An Eye: A Global History of Crime and Punishment (2015) and Convict Cowboys: The Untold History of the Texas Prison Rodeo (2016). His books have been translated into Chinese, Persian, Croatian and Turkish. He has been an instructor at the Zhejiang Police College from 2009 to 2019 and at the International Law Enforcement Academy (Roswell) from 2001-2009. In 2020, Dr. Roth was awarded the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Excellence in Gang Research.

 

(91) “Prison Gangs: A Global Overview”, by Mitchel P. Roth, Ph.D., Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Sam Houston State University, Houston, TX.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gang Profile Analysis; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs.

            Abstract

            This session offers an historical and global perspective of prison gangs and their formation. It explores a wide range of gangs, from the Bladebaaz gang of India to the South African Numbers gangs. The session covers different types of organizations and comparisons will give attendees a stronger understanding of these prison subcultures. It will also examine the motivations, behaviors and activities of the organization both inside and outside of prison and discuss how members function within prison environments. The research also compares how far prisons across the world can be considered microstates. Those that attend this session will come away with a better understanding of variations and similarities of prison gangs through time and around the world.

            Bio

            Mitchel P. Roth, Ph.D. is Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Sam Houston State University. His areas of interest include global organized crime and gangs, history of crime and punishment, mass murder and serial homicide. His many books include, Power on the Inside: A Global History of Prison Gangs (2020), Fire in the Big House: The Worst Prison Disaster in American History (2019), The Illicit Economy in Turkey (with Mahmut Cengiz)(2019), An Eye for An Eye: A Global History of Crime and Punishment (2015) and Convict Cowboys: The Untold History of the Texas Prison Rodeo (2016). His books have been translated into Chinese, Persian, Croatian and Turkish. He has been an instructor at the Zhejiang Police College from 2009 to 2019 and at the International Law Enforcement Academy (Roswell) from 2001-2009. In 2020, Dr. Roth was awarded the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Excellence in Gang Research.

 

(92) “Project Imagine: Community Violence Intervention and the Impact of Outreach Workers as Credible Messengers”, by Robert T. David Sr., Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator, Danville, VA; with panelists including Curtis Artis, Outreach Workers, City of Danville, VA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Prevention Skills.

            Abstract

            This is a two part presentation involving a lecture and a panel. Part 1: The session will provide the audience with an understanding of strategies used by Project Imagine, a nationally recognized Community Violence Intervention collaborative model that will assist in the development of a Community Violence Intervention program. Part 2: Credible messengers who act as gang outreach workers will discuss strategies to build relationship, community mobilization and how to adapt to a changing gang culture. Included in the presentation is a Q/A panel discussion which will allow the audience to gain further insight of the duties of the outreach worker.

            Bios

            Robert T. David Sr., Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator. 2020 recipient of th Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Excellence in Gang Intervention. M.A. in addiction and professional counseling. Creator of Project Imagine the Virginia Municipal League President award winner of most innovative program. Robert has over 25 years of strategic planning & community development experience, a motivated professional with a proven record of generating and building relationships, managing projects from concept to completion, designing collaborative strategies, and coaching individuals to success.

            Curtis Artis is a Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Outreach Worker for the City of Danville. He has an Associate of Arts Science Degree from Danville Community Colleg (Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society), Bachelor of Science (Sociology) Alpha Kappa Delta International Sociology Honor Socciety, DBHDS Peer Recovery Specialist Training, NGCRC Certified Gang Outreach and Intervention Specialist, Virginia Gang Specialist Certification.

            

(93) “Gangs vs. Kingdom”, by Robert T. David Sr., Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator, Danville, VA.

            1.5 hours (90 minutes)

            Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention..

            Abstract

            Attendees will gain a greater understanding of high risk/gang related populations behavior and traditions as viewed from a faith-based perspective. In this training session, attendees will learn the necessary steps to build and start-up a faith-based workforce readiness program for the delivery of services focused on building relationships structured to provide intervention and prevention for high risk and gang related youth. Those attending will gain a basic knowledge for implementation of evidence-based strategies relevant to the mission of faith organizations. 

            Bio

            Robert T. David Sr., Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator. 2020 recipient of th Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Excellence in Gang Intervention. M.A. in addiction and professional counseling. Creator of Project Imagine the Virginia Municipal League President award winner of most innovative program. Robert has over 25 years of strategic planning & community development experience, a motivated professional with a proven record of generating and building relationships, managing projects from concept to completion, designing collaborative strategies, and coaching individuals to success.

 

(94) “Tactical Interviewing in Gang Crime Investigations”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Psychologist and Research Scientist, Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center, Prairie View A&M University.

            Two (2) hours

            Note: Restricted to criminal justice personnel.

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prosecution; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

            Abstract

            Attend this session to get some tips on tactical interviewing in gang cases. Understanding the offender’s psychology of reference, their view of the situation is different. When you need answers fast it helps to know the criminal’s frame of reference, invariably the criminal offender takes a subcultural path. This presentation will provide an overview of categories of gang members and the most appropriate form of interview to use. Gang members are trained to have contempt for police and corrections staff. Learn about how moral neutralization works with gang members but also how snitching on the opposition or rival gangs is not really snitching, in their way of thinking it is “good nation work”. 

            Bio

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Psychologist and Research Scientist at the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center at Prairie View A&M University. She has an Mphil in Criminological Research (University of Cambridge, England) and an M.S.c. in Investigative Psychology (University of Huddersfield, England). Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. She was a recipient of a Frederick Milton Thrasher Award in 2017 for superior accomplishments in gang research and in 2020 for superior accomplishments in gang training.

 

(95) “Understanding the Criminal Mind in Gang Cases”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Psychologist and Research Scientist, Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center, Prairie View A&M University.

            Two (2) hours

            Note: Restricted to criminal justice personnel.

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prosecution; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

            Abstract

            Attend this session to gain insights into the criminal mind of the modern gang member. What are some of the psychological anomalies that gang members exemplify? In what ways can a better understanding help guide and develop a more effective strategy of gang abatement or the reduction of gang violence? What are the psychological hurdles for gang members to overcome so they can basically just quit and leave the gang? 

            Bio

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Psychologist and Research Scientist at the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center at Prairie View A&M University. She has an Mphil in Criminological Research (University of Cambridge, England) and an M.S.c. in Investigative Psychology (University of Huddersfield, England). Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. She was a recipient of a Frederick Milton Thrasher Award in 2017 for superior accomplishments in gang researh and in 2020 for superior accomplishments in gang training.

 

(96) “The Psychology of Violent Behavior and Gangs”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Psychologist and Research Scientist, Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center, Prairie View A&M University.

            Two (2) hours

            Note: Restricted to criminal justice personnel.

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prosecution; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

            Abstract

            This two-hour class will help attendees understand the relationship between violence and gang membership. It will consider the impact of exposure to violent victimization and the perpetration of violent criminal acts on the management of gang involved juveniles and adults. The class will offer practical suggestions for dealing with violence at the different stages of gang involvement, from pre-gang risk factors to leaving the gang. Implications for the policing and management of gang members will be considered in detail. 

            Bio

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Psychologist and Research Scientist at the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center at Prairie View A&M University. She has an Mphil in Criminological Research (University of Cambridge, England) and an M.S.c. in Investigative Psychology (University of Huddersfield, England). Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. She was a recipient of a Frederick Milton Thrasher Award in 2017 for superior accomplishments in gang researh and in 2020 for superior accomplishments in gang training.

 

(97) “Law Enforcement Styles, Individual Characteristics, and the Policing of Gangs”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Psychologist and Research Scientist, Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center, Prairie View A&M University.

            One (1) hour

            Note: Restricted to criminal justice personnel.

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

            Abstract

            This workshop will share findings from a recent study to investigate the relationship of military veteran status, personality traits, life course trauma to policing style, with reference to the policing of gangs. The presentation will consider two perspectives: first, community policing, including the role of law enforcement in gang interventions; second, managing gang crime and violence, with reference to officer safety. 

            Bio

            Sally-Ann Ashton is a Psychologist and Research Scientist at the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center at Prairie View A&M University. She has an Mphil in Criminological Research (University of Cambridge, England) and an M.S.c. in Investigative Psychology (University of Huddersfield, England). Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. She was a recipient of a Frederick Milton Thrasher Award in 2017 for superior accomplishments in gang researh and in 2020 for superior accomplishments in gang training.

 

(98) “Combating Gang/Community Violence through Evidence-Based Strategies”, by Alvis Williams, Chief Training Officer; Joshua Davis, Team Lead Instructor; and Larry Slayton Jr., Team Trainer; Pathfinders Resources, Inc, Danville, VA.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators.

            Abstract

            This session delves into the complex cultural and societal factors that contribute to community violence. We analyze how certain cultural beliefs, values, and norms can promote or sustain gang violence and strategize effective solutions for change. Our adopted model, based on the OJJDP framework, is designed to comprehensively reduce gang and community violence. We also evaluate existing programs and systems targeting community violence, examining their benefits and shortcomings to inform decision-making and intervention strategies. Our focus on community-engaged solutions involving the active participation of youths and families emphasizes the importance of a holistic, inclusive approach to combat gang/community violence. Our plan and strategies for combating gang/community violence are systematically designed, socially inclusive, and driven by empirical evidence.

            Bios

            Alvis Williams, A.A. CJ & BS psych, is an exceptional advocate for at-risk youth, dedicating his career to gang prevention and intervention. With over two decades of experience in the field, Alvis has become a trusted specialist in crisis intervention, collaborating closely with the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to bring about meaningful change in the lives of young individuals. His expertise as a youth advocate allows him to connect with young people on a profound level, transforming their lives and redirecting them towards a path of success. Through his unique approach, he has successfully bridged the gap between communities and the justice system, fostering understanding and unity. In addition to his hands-on work with at-risk youth, he is deeply passionate about training and development. He firmly believes that empowering others with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact is crucial for creating lasting change. He has had the privilege of conducting numerous training sessions for professionals working in the field, equipping them with the tools and strategies needed to effectively engage and support at-risk youth.

            Joshua Davis, M.S.Ed., is a highly experienced professional in educational development, with a strong focus on onboard training, activity coordination, and youth development. With five dedicated years in the field, his expertise primarily revolves around devising innovative solutions to improve educational access, quality, and outcomes. He possesses extensive experience in developing and implementing educational programs that inspire and equip the young individuals, promoting lifelong learning and elevating their potential. Driven by a passionate commitment to nurturing the positive development of youths, particularly those at risk of juvenile delinquency, he has successfully created avenues that connect education with personal growth. He boasts a proven track record of designing impactful intervention strategies that steer young minds away from delinquency, fostering an environment that encourages intellectual and emotional growth. His mission is to provide sustainable, empowering, and transformative educational solutions that strategically drive personal and societal change.

            Larry Slayton Jr., B.Ed., is a dedicated professional with a strong background in educational development, gang training, field coordination, youth development, and juvenile delinquency. With five years of experience, he has passionately worked towards making a positive impact on young lives by developing and implementing effective strategies to support at-risk youth in achieving their full potential. Through out his career, he has successfully coordinated and delivered various educational programs aimed at reducing juvenile delinquency rates and steering troubled youth towards a more positive path. He possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by at-risk populations and excels in developing tailored interventions and mentoring programs to address heir specific needs.

 

(99) “El Tren de Aragua: The Little-Known Transnational Gang From Venezuela that Could”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter Sr., Ed.D., University of Central Missouri; and Aspen Hockley, Student, Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Organized Crime; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Drugs.

            Abstract

            The El Tren de Aragua or Aragua Train is a little-known transnational gang from Venezuela that formed from a corrupt railway labor union in Aragua during the period of 2007-2010. The gang evolved into a Venezuelan prison gang and spread onto the streets from there. They are active in Venezuela, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Columbia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama and Peru. Recently gang members from El Tren de Aragua have been arrested in Chicago, Florida and Texas coming in with the wave of undocumented immigrants from Venezuela that has entered the United States. This session provides a gang threat analysis or profile of the history, structure, and function of the gang over the years. Particular attention is provided to its political and ideological leanings which have included fighting not just with police but displacing well established guerilla group territory through heavy weapons use.

            Bios

            Dr. Gregg W. Etter Sr., Ed.D. is a Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Central Missouri. He retired as a Lieutenant with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office after serving from 1977 to 2006. He is rated as a gang expert by the National Gang Crime Research Center. He has written extensively and presented classes on gangs, white supremacist groups and police management topics in the United States and Canada. Dr. Etter earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Wichita State University and his Doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Etter is the author of numerous books, book chapters, edited and refereed articles. His latest book is: Gangs and Organized Crime which he authored with Dr. George W. Knox and Dr. Carter F. Smith.

            Ms. Aspen Hockley is an undergraduate student of Criminal Justice and Criminology at the University of Central Missouri. She is a member of the American Criminal Justice Association/Lamda Alpha Epsilon competitive team for UCM.

 

(100) “Gangs: Females in the Streets”, by Mayra Nunez, Gang Specialist, San Diego, CA.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Prevention Skills.

            Abstract

            Females in gangs and their culture is a topic that is often overlooked, with their male counterparts being the highlight. In this session, attendees will hear a testimonial from the speaker as a lived experienced individual. The session will include an overview of he culture of females in gangs. Furthermore, researched risk factors of involvement, initiation, criminal mentality, structure and retirement will all be covered in the session.

            Bio

            For over 20 years, Mayra Nunez has been a liaison between law enforcement and the community. She has worked with various police departments such as the San Diego County Probation Department, National City Police Department, and currently the San Diego Police Department. Her experience with street gangs comes from a lived experience along with working in the prevention and intervention field. She has earned a masters degree in psychology with an emphasis on human behavior and has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in human services. Mayra has been a guest speaker in conferences such as International Latino Gang Investigators Association (ILGIA), Southern California Gang Conference (SCGC), Riverside County Gang Investigators Association (RCGIA), and California School Resource Officers Association (CSROA) among others.

  

(101) “How to Implement Community Violence Intervention Strategies”, by LaRon Douglas, Sr., Executive Director, Renounce/Denounce Gang Intervention Program, Cleveland, OH.

            Two (2) Hours

            Session credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

            Abstract

            There has been an increase in gun and gang violence across the country. This segment will focus on the structure and procedures in implementing successful strategies in the development of community violence intervention. We will examine violence interrupters, safe passages for schools, gang intervention programming, and level one trauma hospital response team management.

            Bio

            LaRon Douglas is a certified gang specialist and a CVI consultant from Cleveland, Ohio. He is the founder and executive director of the Renounce Denounce Gang Intervention Program which was founded in 2014. As a former gang leader he understands the pittfalls that our youth have to endure and knows what it takes to decrease gun and gang violence in our communities.

 

(102) “Working With Gang Involved Youth: A Family and Community Perspective”, by Tom Schneider, M.S., Director, Project Lifeline, Chicago, IL; and Kevin Kreuser, Cook County Juvenile Court, Chicago, IL.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gang Members in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

            Abstract

             The thrust of this presentation will be working with youths involved in the Juvenile Justice System, who have a history of gang involvement. The main focus will be working with these youths as individuals, away from the gang structure. The difficulty of working with this population, from a casework perspective, will be discussed.

            Special attention will be paid to community conditions, such as high rates of crime and violence, as well as economic displacement that influence or put at risk an individual juvenile for gang involvement. The role of the family will be discussed, as it relates to the risk of gang involvement. Individual families of gang involved youth will be profiled in depth. These families will encompass different ethnic backgrounds and reflect varying levels of the socio-economic spectrum. The adverse effect of early exposure to violence and the experience of trauma will be discussed. How the criminal enterprises, specifically the street sale of drugs, which characterize today’s urban street gangs, effect youthful gang members will also be explored — specifically as to how they relate to the increase in gang violence and the use of firearms associated with that violence. Also analyzed will be how the interpersonal violence within this youth population is impacted when this criminal enterprise is disrupted, by law enforcement intervention or other means.

            Myths associated with youthful offenders will be considered. The effect of the increase in gang violence on legislation directed toward youthful offenders will be covered and the efficacy of such legislative trends will be discussed. The disproportionate manner in which this violence affects minorities and, similarly, the disproportionate way in which minorities come into contact with both the Juvenile Justice and the Criminal Justice Systems will also be considered.

            Also, the principles of Balanced and Restorative Justice, currently the guiding philosophy of the Cook County Illinois Juvenile Probation Department, will be discussed. Strategies and approaches, which I feel have efficacy in working with this population will be outlined.

            Bios

            Tom Schneider retired from the Cook County Illinois Juvenile Probation Department in January of 2013 after forty years on the street as a juvenile probation officer. He holds a BA degree from the University of Illinois Chicago in the Administration of Criminal Justice and a M.S. degree from Chicago State University in Correction and Criminal Justice. He is currently conducting Anger Management/Violence Prevention groups for juvenile probationers and is the Director of Project Lifeline, the Cook County Juvenile Court scholarship program.

            Kevin Kreuser, B.S., Psychology, Loyola University of Chicago; 17 years as a Probation Officer — Cook County, ILL. Juvenile Court.

 

(103) Project Lifeline: A Panel Discussion With Former Gang Members”, by Tom Schneider, Director, Project Lifeline, Chicago, IL.

            (90 Minutes) 1.5 hours

            Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Counseling Techniques; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole.

            Abstract

            This panel will be moderated by Tom Schneider, retired Probation Officer, Cook County, IL. The participants will be two youths who are formerly gang involved and are currently recipients of a Project Lifeline scholarship. Project Lifeline is an adjunct program of the Cook County Juvenile Probation Department. It provides scholarships to fund post secondary educational opportunities for young men and women who have previously been involved with the Probation Department. The two young men will discuss how and why they got involved in gangs, what were the attractions and drawbacks of gang membership and how they extricated themselves from this lifestyle. They will also discuss their current lives and what their hopes are for the future. Finally, they will share what they feel are the solutions for the violence and other issues impacting at risk youth today.

            Bio

            Tom Schneider, the moderator for this session, retired from the Cook County Illinois Juvenile Probation Department in January of 2013 after forty years on the street as a juvenile probation officer. He holds a BA degree from the University of Illinois Chicago in the Administration of Criminal Justice and a M.S. degree from Chicago State University in Correction and Criminal Justice. He is currently conducting Anger Management/Violence Prevention groups for juvenile probationers and is the Director of Project Lifeline, the Cook County Juvenile Court scholarship program.

 

(104) “The Role of Primary Prevention and a Public Health Approach in an Anti-Gang Strategy”, by Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D., Special Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer, Gang Alternatives Program; Director, Gangfree Life Academy®; Chair, UCLA/RAND Prevention Research CAB; Los Angeles, CA.

            One (1) hour

            Session Credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Prevention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

            Abstract

            Recent findings by a joint investigation by the US Office of Justice Programs and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate it is time to change course and focus on primary prevention as the foundation of an anti-gang program. The tactics of primary prevention require careful implementation of evidence-based best practices that work well in collaboration with local schools, gang intervention programs, and law enforcement. Primary gang prevention focuses on proven successful models that leave little room for freelancing; rather, deep awareness of childhood predictors, major risk factors, and the best practices for gang prevention education lead to major success. At the end of the course, participants should be able to: (1) identify and understand the Public Health Model, (2) utilize the Social-Ecological Model in dealing with the entire gang prevention challenge, (3) understand the insidious, infectious, virus-like nature of the epidemic of violence, (4) identify quickly and correctly the hierarchy of risk factors, (5) identify quickly and correctly the most effective protective factors, and (6) create a basic plan for primary prevention in their communities. Prospective audience: school administrators, educators, community leaders, policy makers, organizational leaders, counselors, nonprofit agencies, law enforcement, criminal justice professionals, local volunteers, and activists.

            Bio

            Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D.is a nonprofit leader with four decades of experience, including 17 years as Executive Director of the Gang Alternatives Program (GAP) in Los Angeles. Semi-retired, he now serves as Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer. He provides gang and violence prevention professional development for K-12 school counselors; serves in various advisory capacities; such as the NGCRC, and works with local and national agencies in the areas of violence reduction and community rebuilding. He is currently the Director and lead instructor of the Gangfree Life Academy®.

 

(105) “Causes, Effects, and Treatments: Impact of Gang Culture and Violence on Elementary, Middle, and High School Aged Children”, by Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D., Special Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer, Gang Alternatives Program; Director, Gangfree Life Academy®; Chair, UCLA/RAND Prevention Research Center CAB; Los Angeles, CA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills.

            Abstract

            The impact of violent and dangerous gang culture is examined through the lens of a Public Health Crisis in American Society. As in any epidemic, primary prevention is the first step, and it is the most effective step in any anti-gang strategy. This session identifies the clinical, demographic, and cultural factors that create and incubate the pathologies that lead to gang joining and gang violence in a community. At the end of the course, participants should be able to: (1) understand why high risk behaviors are prevalent in violent, gang infested areas, (2) track the nine progressions of harsh reality that affect children in these communities, (3) identify the five pathological adaptations made by children in these communities, (4) get a basic understanding of the hierarchy of risk factors, (5) get a basic understanding of major protective factors, and (6) get a basic understanding of the benefits of primary prevention programs. Prospective audience: school administrators, educators, community leaders, policy makers, organizational leaders, counselors, nonprofit agencies, law enforcement, criminal justice professionals, local volunteers, and activists.

            Bio

            Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D.is a nonprofit leader with four decades of experience, including 17 years as Executive Director of the Gang Alternatives Program (GAP) in Los Angeles. Semi-retired, he now serves as Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer. He provides gang and violence prevention professional development for K-12 school counselors; serves in various advisory capacities; such as the NGCRC, and works with local and national agencies in the areas of violence reduction and community rebuilding. He is currently the Director and lead instructor of the Gangfree Life Academy®.

 

(106) “The Cost of Dropping Out and Gang Joining in Los Angeles”, by Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D., Special Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer, Gang Alternatives Program; Director, Gangfree Life Academy®; Chair, UCLA/RAND Prevention Research CAB; Los Angeles, CA.

            One (1) hour

            Session Credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Prevention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

            Abstract

            This presentation covers the direct and indirect costs associated with dropping out of school and joining a gang in greater Los Angeles. With data gathered by the Los Angeles Unified School District, California State University Northridge, and Northeastern University, th California Legislative Analyst’s Office, LAPD, and more, a comprehensive study of the true costs emerges. Upon completion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) identify the intangible human, societal, and economic costs, (2) identify the tangible costs to the criminal justice system, the penal system, victims, government, and business, (3) recount a case study of a family affiliated with the 18th Street Gang, (4) describe the effectiveness of prevention, intervention, and suppression in economic, ethical, and moral terms. Prospective audience: school administrators, educators, community leaders, policy makers, organizational leaders, counselors, nonprofit agencies, law enforcement, criminal justice professionals, local volunteers, and activists.

            Bio

            Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D.is a nonprofit leader with four decades of experience, including 17 years as Executive Director of the Gang Alternatives Program (GAP) in Los Angeles. Semi-retired, he now serves as Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer. He provides gang and violence prevention professional development for K-12 school counselors; serves in various advisory capacities; such as the NGCRC, and works with local and national agencies in the areas of violence reduction and community rebuilding. He is currently the Director and lead instructor of the Gangfree Life Academy®.

 

(107) “Cyberbullying and Gang Provocation”, by Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D., Special Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer, Gang Alternatives Program; Director, Gangfree Life Academy©, Chair, UCLA/RAND Prevention Research Center CAB; Los Angeles, CA.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Internet Investigation.

            Abstract

            For two generations the pathologies of bullying behavior have been mutating from their traditional, in-person behaviors into more insidious and pervasive online bullying or cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is a powerful, virulent form of bullying, which when conjoined with aspects of traditional bullying, allows bullies to practice their malevolent behaviors against their victims on a continuous basis. Since bullying and intimidation have been key aspects of gang culture, cyberbullying is a new, fertile ground for gang manipulation and provocation. Thriving in this environment are more sophisticated and insidious methods of targeting and victimizing vulnerable individuals. At the end of this session, participants should be able to: describe the differences in traditional bullying and online bullying and the synergy they create; recognize some of the key dangers of internet-based bullying, with emphasis on gang manipulation of the individual and provocation to dangerous acts; name the key online portals being exploited by gangs for bullying and manipulation; identify quickly and correctly the hierarchy of risk factors; identify quickly and correctly the most effective protective factors; create a basic plan for dealing with cyberbullying and manipulation that includes schools, law enforcement, social institutions, parents, and policy makers.

            Bio

            Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D.is a nonprofit leader with four decades of experience, including 17 years as Executive Director of the Gang Alternatives Program (GAP) in Los Angeles. Semi-retired, he now serves as Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer. He provides gang and violence prevention professional development for K-12 school counselors; serves in various advisory capacities; such as the NGCRC, and works with local and national agencies in the areas of violence reduction and community rebuilding. He is currently the Director and lead instructor of the Gangfree Life Academy®.

 

(108) “Victimology: Coping with Gang Homicide”, by Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D., Special Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer, Gang Alternatives Program; Director, Gangfree Life Academy®; Chair, UCLA/RAND Prevention Research CAB; Los Angeles, CA.

            Two (2) hours

            Session Credits: Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Prevention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

            Abstract

            Murder is considered the most heinous crime of all. It inflicts the ultimate harm, whose damage to the victim cannot be undone. When a loved one is murdered through gang violence, the list of those harmed contains many secondary and tertiary victims as well. The trauma and fear created by such a sudden, violent, and permanent loss lingers for years and, in fact, may never be fully resolved for these victims. At the end of the course, participants should be able to: (1) describe the differences in victimological science concerning primary, secondary, and tertiary victims in a gang homicide, (2) recognize potential victimology-bashing and victim-blaming, (3) identify signs of deep trauma, PTSD, unresolved guilt, and more, (4) understand the role and effects of law enforcement and the criminal justice system on secondary and tertiary victims of gang homicide. Prospective audience: school administrators, educators, community leaders, policy makers, organizational leaders, counselors, nonprofit agencies, law enforcement, criminal justice professionals, local volunteers, and activists.

            Bio

            Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D.is a nonprofit leader with four decades of experience, including 17 years as Executive Director of the Gang Alternatives Program (GAP) in Los Angeles. Semi-retired, he now serves as Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer. He provides gang and violence prevention professional development for K-12 school counselors; serves in various advisory capacities; such as the NGCRC, and works with local and national agencies in the areas of violence reduction and community rebuilding. He is currently the Director and lead instructor of the Gangfree Life Academy®.

 

(109) “Nonclinical Trauma-Informed Care in Gang Prevention”, by Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D., Special Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer, Gang Alternatives Program; Director, Gangfree Life Academy®; Chair, UCLA/RAND Prevention Research CAB; Los Angeles, CA.

            One (1) hour

            Session Credits: Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Prevention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

            Abstract

            This session introduces nonclinical staff (school administrators, educators, community leaders, policy makers, organizational leaders, counselors, nonprofit agencies, law enforcement, criminal justice professionals, local volunteers, and activists) to the meaning and effects of trauma. It identifies the effects of trauma physically and psychologically, and it examines the difference between traditional treatment of victims and trauma-informed care of victims. It will address applications of trauma-informed care that nonclinical staff gang specialists should know. At the end of the session, attendees should be able to: (1) understand why this subject is important in gang prevention and intervention, (2) understand how trauma impacts prior to gang joining and how it captures and keeps them in gang culture, (3) understand how trauma-informed care promotes healing in trauma victims, especially in children and youth, (4) have a basic understanding of the physical and psychological effects of trauma and how trauma changes the brain during child and adolescent development, and (5) implement simple health-care measures to treat and manage trauma.

            Bio

            Douglas L. Semark, Ph.D.is a nonprofit leader with four decades of experience, including 17 years as Executive Director of the Gang Alternatives Program (GAP) in Los Angeles. Semi-retired, he now serves as Executive to the Board and Chief Learning Officer. He provides gang and violence prevention professional development for K-12 school counselors; serves in various advisory capacities; such as the NGCRC, and works with local and national agencies in the areas of violence reduction and community rebuilding. He is currently the Director and lead instructor of the Gangfree Life Academy®.

 

(110) “Police and Community Counsellor: Partnership in Support of Youth o the Pathway to Gangs”, by Mia Golden, Family Counsellor, and Gord Magee, Police Officer, Victoria Police Department, BC, Canada.

            1.5 hours (90 minutes)

            Session credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services.

            Abstract

             The MYST program was first introduced over 20 years ago initially to address the issue of sexually exploited youth. Originally it was enabled by the area police departments in all 13 municipalities of the Greater Victoria Region and supported one plainclothes police officer. In 2014, the introduction of a counsellor and an expansion to their mandate was made to include youth being recruited or exploited by gangs. Attendees will learn the value of the multi-disciplinary approach to addressing the issue of gang recruitment and exploitation of youth. The session will focus on what you face on the path to recruitment, the antecedents to recruitment from a developmental perspective, barriers to support including substance use challenges, mental health, cultural implications, and family of origin issues. The session will also look at the advantage of trauma informed policing and its positive impact with respect to outcomes for youths as well as investigative strategies when dealing with recruiters.

            Bios

            Mia Golden is a youth and family counsellor with over 25 years of experience. She began her career in a blue-collar town in Northern British Columbia known for its violence and motorcycle club presence and now works in Victoria, the Province’s Capital city. Golden has worked with youth, victims of violence, parents, sex offenders, victims of exploitation, victims of intimate partner violence, and gangs.

            Gord Magee is a police officer with the Victoria Police Department in Victoria, BC Canada. He started his career in Scotland in 1996 first in Kilmarnock, then downtown Glasgow and was part of the Strathclyde Police Pipe Band. In 2003, Magee moved back to Victoria and joined the Victoria Police Department where he has worked in patrol, coordinator of the Con Air Program, Crowd Management Unit, Bikes and Beats Unit, and now with MYST.

     

(111) “Writing a Warrant for Participation in a Criminal Gang”, by Maggie Koch, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, Toledo, OH; and Nicholas Bocik, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Prosecution; Gang Crime Investigation.

            Abstract

            Attend this session to gain new insights into gang prosecution. Attendees will learn how to build gang cases and successfully prosecute them. Learn how and when to write “gang paraphernalia warrants”. Session provides a discussion of the basic warrant standards, items to be seized, and evidence sufficient to establish probable cause, including the training, education, and experience of the affiant.

            Bios 

            Maggie E. Koch JD is an assistant prosecutor with the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, in Toledo, OH. She is responsible for the prosecution of all levels of felony offenses in the adult criminal division, both as first and second chair.

            Nicholas Bocik is a Detective with the Toledo Police Department in Toledo, Ohio.

 

(112) “Prosecution of a Participation in a Criminal Gang Case From Inception to Conviction”, by Maggie Koch, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, Toledo, OH; Nicholas Bocik, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Gang Prosecution; Gang Crime Investigation.

            Abstract

            Attend this session to gain new insights into gang prosecution. Attendees will learn how to build gang cases and successfully prosecute them. This session provides a case review of the entire process related to the prosecution of a gang member in the Lucas County Common Pleas Court. Including initial indictment, evidence collection, pre-trial motions, and presentation of the case to the jury.

            Bio 

            Maggie E. Koch JD is an assistant prosecutor with the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, in Toledo, OH. She is responsible for the prosecution of all levels of felony offenses in the adult criminal division, both as first and second chair.

            Nicholas Bocik is a Detective with the Toledo Police Department in Toledo, Ohio.

 

(113) “Strategic Interviewing Techniques for Gang Investigators: Making Gun Cases Stronger for Prosecution”, by Dino Balos, Special Agent, ATF, Tampa, FL.

            Two (2) hours

            Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gang Prosecution.

            Restricted Session: Law Enforcement and Prosecution only.

            Abstract

            This course is designed for law enforcement involved in crime gun investigations (particularly detectives, agents, and gang officers). Attendees will learn how to spot overlooked opportunities and obtain reliable confessions to strengthen cases for prosecution involving the more difficult “constructive” possession and circumstantial § 924( c ) gun cases. The course covers how to quickly establish rapport with career criminals and handle Miranda scenarios such as re-initiations or re-approaches based on case law. Throughout the presentation, short video clips from actual interviews that /SA Balos conducted throughout his career will be incorporated with role playing scenarios and case law references to facilitate learning. Upon completion, the attendee will be able to add these techniques as a component of crime gun intelligence methods and tools.

            Bio

            ATF Special Agent Dino Balos is a 26-year federal law enforcement officer. He is a certified ATF instructor who has investigated hundreds of firearms, explosives, and arson cases – many of which were supported by reliable confessions as evidence – and has testified concerning confessions or admission made to him as part of the prosecution’s case-in-chief. S/A Balos is assigned to the ATF Tampa Field Division. Other duty assignments include the ATF Boston Field Division’s Arson & Explosives Group and the U.S. Bomb Data Center at ATF Headquarters in Washington, DC. Prior to ATF, he was a special agent at the Office of the Inspector General investigating fraud, waste, and abuse in programs administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

 

(114) “The Adult Friends for Youth (AFY) Gang Intervention Program in Hawaii: Changing the Lives of Youth Gang Members”, by Deborah Spencer-Chun, MSW, President & CEO of AFY, Honolulu, HI; with Lisa Tamashiro, Siutiti Takai, Jacqueline Espejo, and Sgt. Bryan Oato.

            One (1) hour

            Session credits: Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Prevention Skills.

            Abstract

            Although surprising, youth gang violence and criminal behavior impacts Hawaii just as much as the continental United States. Adult Friends for Youth (AFY) has recognized the need to work with gangs as whole entities due to the strength of peer pressure/influence. For the maladaptive behavior of one youth to change, their friends must also be involved in the process. AFY’s services are intervention-based, however they also help to prevent further violence and break the cycles of poverty and hopelessness that plague our communities. Turf is incredibly important to the youth we serve. They are protective of their neighborhood and will fight to defend it. When they are invited to AFY’s turf/office, they respect and appreciate the opportunity to share our space as well. It shows them they are valued, which helps build/strengthen bonds. Attend this session to learn how the AFY programs/services change the lives of youth gang members.

            Bios

            Deborah Spencer-Chun, MSW has been with the agency for 36 years, 20 in direct services. She has co-authored two books: (1) Toward a Gang Solution: The Redirectional Method, and (2) Turning it Around: Redirectional Therapy. She is a member of several working groups which include the Women Prison’s Project, Visitor’s Public Safety Committee, Family Reunification Working Group, Workforce Developmental Council-Youth Services Committee, and the Juvenile Justice Oversight Advisory Committee.

            Lisa Tamashiro, Director of Operations & Special Programs, 13 years of experience. Siutiti Takai, Director of Redirectional Services, 6 years of experience. Jacqueline Espejo, Redirectional Specialist, 4 years of experience. Sgt. Bryan Oato, Honolulu Police Department, Honolulu, HI.