About Me

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Kansas City, MO, United States
Author of the book, Port Security Management (2009, CRC Press), which reflects the altered landscape of the post-9/11 era, providing real-world guidelines for port security management, planning, and implementation processes. Assistant Professor and Chair of Criminal Justice at Park University in Parkville, MO. and Associate Dean, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Contact Information: Park University, 8700 NW River Park Drive, Parkville, MO, 64152. www.park.edu/cj

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Port Everglades security: Seaport administrators plan to replace BSO workers with private security - South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

Port Everglades security: Seaport administrators plan to replace BSO workers with private security - South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

There is considerable bias towards the deployment of public law enforcement personnel vs. private security in the public ports in the United States. The pushback being felt by Port Everglades is not unique. In 2004, an effort by the Port of Miami to curtail high operating costs associated with police overtime envisioned contracting for certain security services performed by police officers (e.g., vehicle screening). The resistance to the replacement of police personnel with contract security was considerable as local, state, and federal officials with port security regulatory responsibilities aggressively challenged such efforts. The truth is, many global corporations and institutions use private security effectively to mitigate risks associated with crime, loss from theft, espionage, even terrorism. Risk assessment and security planning can be done using personnel trained and managed well, whether they work for a law enforcement agency or a private company.

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Ecuador Authorities Seize Drug-smuggling Sub

This is further evidence that threats to maritime/port security are evolving in terms of technology and sophistication. In the aftermath of the 9/11 events, and the development of IMO/ISPS, as well as MTSA in the US, port security was concerned about port infiltration by underwater swimmers and surface vessels. Not 10 years later, ports now must consider that potential threats may emanate from fairly sophisticated submersibles. To meet this new threat, ports may have to consider expanding their risk assessment metrics and developing more underwater and long-range surveillance capabilities. It does speak to the need for port management to work closely with their security/law enforcement partners to take advantage of good intelligence and processes that in the long run will be cost-beneficial.