"Providing benefits and services to America's state troopers since 1989"
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"Providing benefits and services to America's state troopers since 1989" |
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Troopers on forefront against nuclear terrorismby David Binder
State troopers throughout the nation are partnering with the Department of Homeland Security in the war against nuclear terrorism. Since its inception in 2005, the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office within DHS has partnered with state law enforcement agencies in the development of preventive radiological/nuclear detection (PRND) programs. This partnership has resulted in the deployment of radiological monitors at weigh stations, mobile radiological detection equipment, and portable detection equipment which is deployed in highway, maritime, and special event venues. The California Department of Health estimates that the detonation of a 10 kiloton nuclear device could result in the death of 118,000 people and result in an economic loss of $551 billion. The detonation of a radiological dispersal device, or “dirty bomb,” has the potential to contaminate a wide area, denying access to the public for years. To address this threat, many states have developed PRND programs. The Kentucky State Police, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and California Highway Patrol operate a few of the nation’s first weigh station-based programs, while the Alabama Highway Patrol and Virginia State Police are among those agencies operating the first deployment of the ASP-Variant L Chevrolet Suburban-based mobile detection system. The New York State Police are key participants in the Securing the Cities program, and the New Jersey State Police possess a PRND program as part of their commercial vehicle inspection program.
While primarily a homeland security endeavor, PRND equipment is being utilized by commercial vehicle enforcement troopers to enforce the Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations pertaining to the transportation of hazardous materials as well. The key to successful program development includes concept of operations development, policy and procedure development, training, and acquisition of equipment that is appropriate for the PRND mission. The development of preventive radiological/nuclear detection programs is one of six funding priorities for the 2009 Homeland Security Grant Program, providing a mechanism to fund program development and implementation. David Binder is a former Florida state trooper and is currently a contractor serving as senior engagement liaison at the Department of Homeland Security, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office. |
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