National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC)

WHAT: The Biggest and Best Gang Training Conference --- Gang College 2012.

When? --- July 23rd, July 24th, and July 25th, 2012

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

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

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

How to Attend: A registration form is provided at the end of this lengthy file; or call or fax in a request for a registration form

. (TEL: 708 258-9111; FAX 708 258-9546). How to find out more? Go to the main webpage for the NGCRC: www.ngcrc.com

The 2012 NGCRC 15th International Gang Specialist Training Conference

2012 Conference Information Site--- The Full Text On-Line Version

Last UPDATED: Feb. 17, 2012

© Copyright 2011. You are now in the "2012 Conference" section of the National Gang Crime Research Center, this is a lengthy fext file that explains everything you could possibly want to know about the exciting gang training conference being held in Chicago, July 23-25, 2012; the main website of the NGCRC is: www.ngcrc.com Click here if you want to visit the main page of the NGCRC: www.ngcrc.com.

What's New: Advance Listing of Courses Has Started

We have started to list some of the sessions that will be offered at the July 23-25, 2012 Training Conference....there are currently over N = 97 different sessions already listed in this file (towards the end, just before the registration form). This is a volatile file, we add new courses on a regular ongoing basis. We always have over 100 different courses for people to pick from.

What's New: The Cabrini-Green Area Tour Is Now Open and You Can Sign Up Using the Form in This File.

This is a "tour of the "hood". It is described in this file. You have to "sign up" for it in advance. There is a limit on the number of persons who can sign up, so the policy is: first come, first served. At this time of the last update of this NGCRC file, there IS still space available for the tour. There is no additional cost for the tour. The tour is available for free only to those who are registered for the NGCRC Training Conference.

What's New: The Vet's Reception

The Veterans Reception is new for 2012, sponsored by the NGCRC Staff, hosted by Dr. Todd Negola and Fred Moreno and Dr. Lee Gilbertson (NGCRC staff members), it will occur slightly after the Law Enforcement and Corrections Reception. It is for VETS ONLY. If you are a veteran, just show up. You will feel welcomed and appreciated by the NGCRC staff. Door prizes.

What's New: Free Chicago Baseball Tickets:

One Per Person --- Limited Tickets Available---- ticket orders being taken at this time.

The NGCRC training occurs in Chicago and everyone knows that Chicago is a great city to take in a baseball game. And attending a baseball game in a large group of fellow gang specialists is a great opportunity for informally networking with other gang experts from all over the USA and abroad. It is truly “quality time”, designed to enhance the opportunity for social networking with other gang specialists. The tickets we buy and pay for are bought in block sections: you sit with others from the NGCRC group in the same area. So, every year, to the extent permitted by cost and availability, the NGCRC attempts to buy a number of tickets to the baseball games. This year, during the same dates as the NGCRC Conference, we are blessed to have been able to purchase 100 tickets for a 7:10pm night game ---

Here is the policy and because we do not have as many tickets as we tried to get: one ticket per person. A further requirement is that the person requesting a ticket must be registered for the conference and you must be paid up for your registration at the time you request a ticket; further, the tickets will be given away on a “First come, First served” basis.

We do not have any extra tickets for this event. So, sadly, no we cannot give out any extra tickets to persons who are not registered with the conference. Periodically, we do find that on the day of the event, people who were given such tickets sometimes “turn them in” to the NGCRC Operations Center at the Hotel. It happens every year. What you just have to do is be persistent and stop by the Operations Center to see if any tickets have been returned. Again: first come, first served on the distribution of on-site “recycled” tickets.

If you are going to see the Sox, then you will be heading south to 35th Street. Figure about 10 minutes walking distance from the Hotel to the Train stop: 5 minutes by bus. Figure 12 minutes by train, 18 by bus, from approximately “Chicago Avenue” north (800 North). It is not advised that you drive your personal vehicles to the game: during games parking is at a premium, and the streets are very congested with vehicular traffic. Best and most efficient way to get there: by train.

We suggest you take the train to the game. The CTA train is cheap, fast.

Please note: transportation to and from the game from the hotel is not provided by the NGCRC. You simply need to call or visit the website for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and you will find there is very cheap transportation by train or bus. Should you want to pool in a taxi with some others from the NGCRC, or your own group that is attending, hey, fine, just remember you are on your own: the NGCRC is not paying for the transportation. Our advice: buy a round-trip CTA train ticket.

Your ticket to the Sox Game will be mailed directly to you (well before the conference). So do not lose the ticket, we cannot replace it if it is lost or destroyed. We will announce at this website location when we start mailing tickets. These tickets while paid for by the NGCRC are being distributed free of charge to officially registered trainees to enhance their social networking experience at the NGCRC training conference. If you request a ticket, and if we provide you one, and you change your mind about attending: please turn it in to us, before the conference if possible (even at the conference, you can just come to the Operations Center and turn it in there as well).

Do you have to complete and submit a BNETR Form to get a ticket? No, just check the ticket you want on the registration form.

What if the registration form I used did not have a section on it allowing me to sign up for a Baseball Networking Event? Then you can complete the BNETR Form below, or use the registration form available at the NGCRC website (it will have the section allowing you to pick a Cubs game).

You can submit the Baseball Networking Event Ticket request form at the time you first register for the conference, it is built into the registration form. If you registered early, before we had the tickets, then you can submit the Ticket Request Form at any time after registering, during the time frame that we still have such tickets to give away. We cannot guarantee tickets to anyone. Again: first come, first served. Make sure your request is mailed by means of the United States Postal Service. Please follow the procedure described here.

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BASEBALL NETWORKING EVENT

TICKET REQUEST FORM

I am registered to attend the 2012 NGCRC Conference and I want to receive a ticket to the July 23rd 2012 Baseball Networking Event. This is for the White Sox versus the Minnesota Twins, game start time is 7:10pm.

____I am requesting one ticket to the Monday July 23rd Sox vs. Twins Game

Please mail me one free Baseball Networking Event ticket to:

Print Name: ________________________________________________________________

First Last

Street Address:______________________________________________________________

Agency (optional):___________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:______________________________________________________________

Mail this form to: NGCRC Conference Processing Center

P.O. Box 990

Peotone, IL 60468-0990

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The "One Day Pass" or Daily Rate Attendance Option: New for 2012

The NGCRC's 2012 Training Conference allows people to sign up for "just one day". This is designed for the person who cannot stay for the full three day training conference.

The price for the "One Day Pass" is $395.00 and you can select which one of the three days you want to attend: Monday or Tuesday or Wednesday.

The "One Day Pass" registration option does not carry with it a number of the advantages that are available to those who register for the full three day conference. For example, you cannot receive certification for the "One Day Pass" as it would reflect only eight (8) hours of training. Certification is available only to those who are enrolled for the full three day conference.

Q: Is there a certificate of attendance for the 2012 Training Conference for those registering under the "One Day Pass" option?

A: Yes. The certificate does not mean certification, the certificate for those registering under the "One Day Pass" option simply attests that you attended one day of NGCRC training and that it has the equivalent of eight (8) hours of training.

Q. If I attend under the One Day Pass, do I become a Certified Gang Specialist?

A: Not from your certificate of attendance, no. Under the One Day Pass, you will receive a certificate that attests simply that you attended for one day, it does not attest that you have yet achieved any certification status. You can use this certificate and allow it to count for eight (8) hours towards future certification with the NGCRC. You need increments of 24 hours of NGCRC training to achieve different levels of certification with the NGCRC.

Another significant difference between the "One Day Pass" and the full training program is this: those who register for non-certification or certification in the full three day training program receive a valuable "goody bag" containing reference material. If you register for the conference under the "One Day Pass" option, you will not receive one of these "Goody Bags". If you register under the "One Day Pass" option you will receive only a registration packet that contains your laminated ID Badge, the Daily Training Schedule, an Evaluation Form, a Directory of Attendees, and a pen.

Those registering under the One Day Pass option do not have the option to participate in any of the raffles, as by procedure, the entry form must be received the day before the raffle winners are announced. Those registering under the One Day Pass option are not eligible for the Cubs Game Social Networking Events that occur on Monday and Tuesday evenings.

Those registering under the One Day Pass option are allowed to attend any Reception Events that occur on the day they have registered for, just note that these are ticketed events, and you must sign up in advance on the registration form itself in order to be able to attend the Reception Events. Those registering under the One Day Pass option are also allowed to attend any "Early Riser", "Noon time", or "Evening" sessions that might be offered on the day they are attending. There are no Early Riser (6am to 8am) sessions on Monday, and there are no Evening Sessions on Wednesday.

Those registering under the One Day Pass option are allowed to get the Free CEU's for those courses they attend that are CEU-eligible on the day for which they are registered.

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

Some people like all the details, that is provided in this file (www.ngcrc.com/2012.conference.html). Others need something "short and sweet" to attach to a travel request. We have that too: it is the six page basic "Brochure Version" of this lengthy and detailed conference file. It also includes a registration form and cost information.

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

What's New: Free CEU's - Continuing Educational Units

Some of the sessions in the training curriculum have a special designation which is the statement "CEU's: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU's." If you attend one of these sessions, then you are eligible for free CEU's. You can tell which sessions are CEU-eligible simply by whether they do or do not include that statement. If the session does not include the statement, then it does not offer CEU's.

NEW FOR 2012: The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification Course

This was first offered at the 2011 NGCRC conference, it was very successful. It is the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification Course taught by Dr. Charla Waxman. It consists of four (4) hours of training each day, for three consecutive days. Thus, during July 23-July 25, 2012 you would accumulate 12 hours total to receive the additional MHFA certification. Please make sure to check "yes" on the registration form if you intend to try and complete the full 12 hour MHFA program within your allotted 24 hours of NGCRC training. We need your information because you get a separate certificate from this. The registration form includes the question: I will be attending the full Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification Course (12 of my 24 hours) at this training conference. ___Yes ___No So make sure you check "yes" if you really plan on participating in the MHFA segment of training.

The MHFA Certification Course provides Session Credits in the following track areas: Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Counseling Techniques; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a first aid first responder course. Attendance at this course will provide an additional certification (beyond your gang certification) as an MHFA first responder. This certification would be similar to having a CPR card for a cardiac emergency. As a first responding card holder, your increased training will allow you to respond to mental health crises as a first responder - - - helping until help arrives.

This course is offered by certified trainers from Linden Oaks at Edward certified through the National Council on Mental Health. The overriding goal of MHFA is to reduce stigma and increase awareness of mental illness. If you complete the full 12 hour MHFA program, a three course sequence, then you will be issued an additional certificate of training directly from the National Council on Mental Health. Learn how to de-escalate a crisis. Learn the risk factors and warning signs for a range of mental health problems. Recommended for all gang specialists including but not limited to law enforcement, corrections, probation/parole, gang prevention/intervention/outreach, etc.

There is no extra fee or charge to enroll in the MHFA certification as long as you are already officially registered for the 2012 conference itself. It is a free service to those officially registered for the NGCRC conference.

This is Your Invitation to Attend the July 23-25, 2012 Conference:

It's the conference you cannot afford to miss. In the summer of 2012, the National Gang Crime Research Center will hold its 15^th international gang training conference in Chicago --- once again bringing together the Nation's top experts on gangs and gang-related issues.

It's the experience you’ve come to expect --- the opportunity to network with law enforcement, corrections, private sector professionals from all over the country and abroad.

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

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

You cannot afford to miss the NGCRC's 15th International Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago this summer (2012).

Don't delay!

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

AN INVITATION FOR GANG SPECIALIST PRESENTERS:

Dear Gang Specialist:

The NGCRC cordially invites you to consider making a presentation at the 2012 Fifteenth NGCRC International Gang Specialist Training Conference (July 23-25, 2012 at the Westin Hotel). The 2012 event is going to be a major event, as the NGCRC celebrates a decade of successful gang training. There will be some new and wonderful events at the 2012 NGCRC Conference, you will want to be a part of it. Perhaps doing so as both an attendee, plus being a presenter too.

This is your formal invitation to submit one or more “session proposals”. What makes you particularly competitive as a potential presenter is of course the fact that you already know the NGCRC training conference format. So you pretty much know how we do things.

To help you get started, below, please find a "Session Proposal Form". It is simple, there are only a couple things we need on the form. The most important is going to be the topic and the abstract. We encourage you to think creatively. We can also help you if you want it: we can help you with picking a topic, or with finalizing a topic. To get help, just call (708) 258-9111 and ask to speak to someone from the 2012 Curriculum Committee. Or leave a number, and someone will call you.

You can also get help with “creative ideas” for a new session proposal. We already know what some of the “need areas are”, so you can get good feedback and counseling from the NGCRC on the type of session that will be “popular” and well attended in 2011. We can do this interactively with you on the phone, again, just call (708) 258-9111 and ask to speak to someone from the 2011 Curriculum Committee. Or leave a number, and someone will call you. You will find more information about the call for presenters below. Note: The call for presenters will end shortly.

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS FOR THE 2012 NGCRC 15^th INTERNATIONAL GANG SPECIALIST TRAINING CONFERENCE:

This is an official invitation for you to be a presenter at the 2012 Fifteenth International NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference to be held in Chicago, July 23-25, 2012 at the Westin Hotel Michigan Avenue.

You want to act quickly on this invitation to become a presenter at the 2012 NGCRC conference. We are planning on some new and exciting events this year. You want to become a part of this exciting 2012 Conference. Please note, though, that no financial incentives of any kind (including waiver of registration fees) can be offered. Presenters will be expected to be registered for the conference, unless special arrangements are made.

You are cordially invited to submit a session proposal for the 2012 NGCRC gang training conference. You are allowed to submit and present more than one proposal.

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

The "Session Proposal Form" is provided below for your use. Please follow that as a template or guideline. Feel free to call if you have questions (call 708-258-9111, just ask to speak with someone from the 2012 Curriculum Committee).

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

Your proposal(s) will be evaluated by the 2012 Curriculum Committee. We are usually able to get back to you with a decision in ten (10) days. You can use the form below or a facsimile of this form to submit your session proposal.

Call for Presenters:

2012 NGCRC Conference Session Proposal Form

(Worksheet and Outline)

Title of Your Session:_________________________________________________________

Duration of Your Session in Hours:_______________ hours

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

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

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

__________________________________________________________________________

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

___________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

Please use separate paper, not this form to submit your session proposal. Fax it to: (708) 258-9546 and then mail it to make sure we get it: NGCRC, 2012 Curriculum Committee, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. Warning: The call for presenters will close early this year.

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

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

Duration: Two (2) hours

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

Abstract

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

Bio

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

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

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

TOPICS WE REALLY NEED PRESENTERS FOR:

"How To 'Gang Proof' the Shopping Malls in Your Jurisdiction".

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

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

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

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

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

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

"How the Federal Wiring Process Works for Getting Federal Grants and Funding for Your Gang Prevention/Intervention Program".

"Dealing With Gangs on the Res".

"Advanced Gang Identification About Crips"

"Advanced Gang Identification for Blood Gangs".

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

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

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

"How to Effectively Use Anonymous Cash Rewards for Solving Cold Case Gang-Related Crimes". Think especially useful for: homicide, arson, etc.

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

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

"How to Identify The Most Violent and Most Hardcore (Those Most Likely to be Shooters in the Contexts of Ongoing Gang Conflict) Within the Gang Member Population: Towards the Goal of Preventing or Reducing Gang Homicide Rates"

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

"How to Implement a Gang Peace Treaty and Cease Fire Agreement That Really Works"

"Interpreting Gang-Related Court Decisions"

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

Statistical Evaluation Results from the 2011 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2011 Fourteenth International NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 8-10, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons who attended the conference and who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of success as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2011 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. In fact, for 2011 some 43.1 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 56.9 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2011 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The results indicated that 63.0 percent of those attending the 2011 conference did so for the first time. In other words, some 37.0 percent of those who attended the 2011 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

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

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2011 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 99 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2011 conference reported that “the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2011 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 88.7 percent of those attending the conference reported that it “was, in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended”. Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’s 2011 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the 2012 NGCRC 15^th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 97.8 percent of those who attended the 2011 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2012 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

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

The first question asked “did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2011 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 96.4 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2011 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference”. Here we find that 95.7 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2011 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked “did you attend any of the special networking receptions”? Here we find that 59.9 percent attended one or more of these specialized reception events.

What does this mean when we compare the results of questions two and three? Simple: the NGCRC delivers more. The level of reported networking achieved at the 2011 conference (96.4%) exceeded the level at which it was desired (95.7%). Another way of looking at this, is that some who did not consider networking important also achieved that networking result along with everyone else! The NGCRC promises a warm and friendly environment, and these statistics tend to support that claim.

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

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

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

The evaluation form included the following question measuring the quality of materials: “how satisfied were you with the quality of the take home training materials provided to you?”. Each participant is provided with a “take home goody bag” that contains various printed training materials for future use. The results indicated a mean score of 8.16 on a zero to 10 point scale.

A second question asked “how satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?”, and here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 7.89 was found for this factor.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 9.07, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support.

OVER HALF WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

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

The evaluation form asked the conference participants “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?”. The results indicated that 55.8 percent of those attending the conference reported winning something in one of the raffles.

OVER A QUARTER WENT ON ONE OF THE TOURS

There were various tours arranged (tour of the hood, tour of juvenile detention center, etc) for conference participants during their stay in Chicago. The tours were available free to those registered for the conference on a first come, first sign-up basis. The evaluation form therefore included the question “did you go on any of the tours?”. The results indicated that over a quarter of all the attendees, some 31.5 percent, reported going out on one or more of the tours.

NGCRC GUESTS OFTEN BRING ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS WITH THEM

The NGCRC promises a “family friendly” environment for its conference participants and provided some special features in this regard (e.g., Family ID cards allowing them to take advantage of discounts at restaurants, etc in the area). The evaluation form asked “Did you bring other family members to Chicago this visit” and the results indicated that 12.2 percent brought one or more other family members with to the conference.

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

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2011 NGCRC conference participants to “give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F”.

The results indicated that most (65.7%) gave the NGCRC an "A". An additional 30.1 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of "B". Thus, 95.8 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of "A minus" it would appear from the 2011 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

Some of Many Comments From The Evaluation Survey of Those Persons Who Attended the NGCRC’s 14^th Annual 2010 Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago (August 8-10, 2011:

“ Diverse group of speakers that are excellent and are very approachable. The law enforcement reception was great!! Thank you, Dr. Knox, and thanks to all your excellent staff and presenters!!” Alan Devolin, Calgary Police Service, Calgary, Alberta, CANADA.

“Incredible amount of class choices. Presenters seemed well versed in fields taught. Great training!” Matthew Bell, Police Officer, Milwaukee Police Department, Milwaukee, WI.

“The conference had a very large amount of relevant material to my career.” Matthew Sinclair, Program Coordinator, Comin’ Up Gang Intervention Program, Fort Worth, TX

“Thank you. I most enjoyed the Christian gang specialist reception. It felt great to share a time of faith. I have longed for this over 18 years in my work.” Eric Dean Spruth, Facilitator Homicide Support Group, Cook Co. State’s Atty’s Office, Chicago, IL

“As always, a wide variety of experienced, knowledgeable presenters with a wide variety of relevant topics covered. Great staff and great info!” Sarah Meyer, Crime Lab Technician Trainee, Omaha Police Dept., Omaha, NE

“The staff is great, knowledgeable and willing to help.” Lt. William Loescher, Puyallup Nation Police Dept., Tacoma, WA

“Networking is great. I appreciate all the support. Thanks a million, George. I love being here and with NGCRC.” Dr. Charla Waxman, President, Charla Waxman, Ltd., Grayslake, IL.

“Gathering a very wide variety of information of trends, history, and statistics about gangs in the US and abroad.” Matt Bertschman, The Link, Thornton, CO

“The ability to sit in on several topics during the day make this training second to none. Being able to move around keeps your mind fresh, and makes for a better learning environment.” Lee McCallister, Lansing Police Dept., Lansing, MI

“The Interview and Interrogation and Search Warrant 101 classes were awesome. Detective Munoz and Sergeant Yoshimura provided their hands on experience through their instructions; which greatly benefitted. Their expertise was expressed in their classes. The Burn Out Blue was excellent. It is a must for officers (rookie to retiree). This is the most ignored problem amongst officers.” Sgt. Korey Cooper, Columbia Police Dept., Columbia, TN “Thank you, Dr. Knox, for providing a positive and supportive training environment.” John Douglas “A-Train” Atkisson, Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center, Corrections Intelligence Service, Milwaukee, WI

“All the Carter Smith classes, very knowledgeable. Would come back every year if possible.” Detective James P. Brooks, Detective/Deputy Sheriff, Rutherford County Sheriff’s Dept., Murfreesboro, TN

“A.V. Papacristos and Negola were excellent presenters! Also, Charla Waxman’s Practical Techniques working with gang-impacted youth were invaluable.” Carlos G. Rodriguez, OMNI Youth Services, Buffalo Grove, IL.

“MHFA was more than expected. Thanks for the opportunity!” Dr. Doris D. Yates, CSU East Bay, Hayward, CA

“This is always a wonderful opportunity to meet gang investigators in the field and trade information. It is the church of what’s happening now.” Dr. Gregg W. Etter Sr. Ed.D. Associate Professor, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO

““Mental Health First Aid” “Awesome” course.” Jimmie E. Slone, Perkins Job Corps,

Prestonburg, KY

“The community at this conference was a refreshingly passionate and open-minded group and I learned from everyone I interacted with. Working with others from various backgrounds certainly stimulated interesting new directions for my research.” Anonymous

“Great networking opportunities for future contacts and questions. Very experienced instructors with great knowledge.” Bobby Farley, Deputy Sheriff/Gang Intelligence Officer

Rutherford County Sheriff’s Dept., Murfreesboro, TN

“This is an excellent opportunity to “network” and meet new gang experts.” Dr. Manuel R. Roman, Jr., Sierra College, Rocklin, CA

“The overall conference is the best in the world, information is accurate and the presenters are excellent. First class stuff.” Malik Aziz, Chairman, National Exhoodus Council, Philadelphia, PA

“Extremely informative and overwhelmingly detailed.” Jannette Taylor, Impact One,

Omaha, NE

“The information is outstanding! ‘ George E. Barnes, Juvenile Officer, South Arkansas Youth Services, Magnolia, AR

“Was a vast array of topics.” Sgt. John J. Belton, Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office,

Jersey City, NJ

“I liked the ability to network. The Criminal Minds presentation was very interesting.” Kenneth N. Forsythe, Gang Analyst, Lake County HIDTA, Crown Point, IN

“Outstanding training with expertise/experienced trainers.” Cindy Snider, Chief Operating Officer, South Arkansas Youth Services, Inc, Magnolia, AR.

“Charla Waxman is awesome! Also just being able to network with peers from other jurisdictions, countries is so invaluable. This is a MUST attend conference if you want to be one of the best specialists in your area.” William A. Campbell, Corrections Training Instructor II,

Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, Richmond, KY

“Awesome opportunity to network and compare strategies used in the U.S. with those in South Africa.” Matthew Cronje, Monash University, Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA

“It was very informative and coming from South Africa, it introduced many different ways of combating crime.” Richard Charlton, Monash University, Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA

“Everyone was extremely professional and very positive on sharing info trying to help make the streets safe to decrease gang activity in our states. Great conference, I must say!!” Cameron Hill, Special Response Unit, Memphis City Schools, Memphis, TN

“All of the information given was, and is, very useful in the everyday work of an investigator. The information is right on point and it showed that the gangs are not only in Memphis or Chicago, but is everywhere. And this type of sharing information is the only way we are going to fight this problem.” Eric Scott, Special Response Unit, Memphis City Schools,

Memphis, TN

“Great networking opportunity and a great source of gang knowledge.” Jennifer Wright, Outreach Coordinator, Alternatives for Girls, Detroit, MI

“Networking with other gang specialists throughout the country.” Eddie Alaniz, Police Officer, Moline Police Department, Moline, IL

“The quality and quantity of experienced, professional presenters.” John. M. Kotchen, Fridley, MN

“First hotel, workers, presenters were great. I received a lot of valuable information on our youths and gangs from the different cities, or states. (Speakers) I really enjoyed the 2011 NGCRC training.” Kathy E. Mixon, Juvenile Officer, South Arkansas Youth Services, Magnolia, AR

“The options in classes and instructors are wonderful.” James Bohanon, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK

“I learned new trends which will assist in identification networking with other agencies and learning from them. Excellent location.” Joe Pacelt, Training Supervisor, Cook County Juvenile Court, Chicago, IL

“Andrew Papacristos...great in the few seminars of his I attended.” Carrie Moe, Intelligence Analyst, Chicago HIDTA, Chicago, IL

“ Mental Health First Aid training - A fantastic workshop. This applies to everyone: police, social worker, interventionist, teacher, counselor, clergy and parents. I’m so glad I decided to take this course. Instructors who update their presentations yearly. Dr. Etter kicks ass! Brian Bochenek, DV Clinician, DuPage County Psychological Services, Wheaton, IL

“I love learning about gangs and making contacts!!” Melisa Richardson, Gang Specialist/Deputy, Hendricks Co. Sheriff’s Dept., Danville, IN

“Great info and instructors! And good variety of classes/courses offered. Hannah Cowden, Buyck, MN

“Cities with overwhelming gang problems should require their respectable personnel to attend this conference so they can accurately understand and address this problem in their community.” Melanie Folske, Waite Park, MN

“The presenters are extremely knowledgeable of past and ourrent trends in their respective areas.” George Elrod, Jr., Asst. Supt. Of Student Affairs, Crete-Monee School Dist., Crete, IL

“Was very informative, local, very friendly.” Maria L. Collazo, Victim Witness Specialist,

Cook Co. State’s Atty’s Office, Chicago, IL

“I learned something new.” Sgt. Jacob Eagan, Hendricks Co. Sheriff’s Dept., Danville, IN

“The opportunity to network with people who really knew what they were talking about. Cabrini Green tour was good.” Kenneth A. Stiff, Hendricks Co. Sheriff’s Dept., Danville, IN

“Great place to meet professionals in the criminal justice field.” Katharine A. Ringdahl, Alexandria, MN

“Vast amount of info.” Darcy Stenzel, Police Officer, Heron Lake Police Dept., Heron Lake, MN

“The presenters were excellent, very knowledgeable and attention-keeping.” Kathryn Denn, SCSU- Dept of CJ, St. Joseph, MN

“George is the greatest. Does he really get the “thanks” he deserves? (I say not. We should host him in 2012.)” Lt. William Marsh, Training Coordinator, Hendricks Co. Sheriff’s Dept.,

Danville, IN

“The presenters were very knowledgeable.” Ebony C. Rubio, Community Supervision Officer, C.S.O.S.A., Washington, DC

“Good choices for the classes offered. Overall, the conference was well run.” Donna Brown, Deputy, Kent County Sheriff Dept., Grand Rapids, MI.

“The best thing I can say, is being able to pick the sessions you want to attend was, or is, a very good ideal. This was my first year attending. I hope to continue to attend in the near future. The fact that there were gang specialists for all over the U.S. was great as well.” Melinda V. Tucker, Senior Juvenile Detention Officer, River Valley Detention Center, Joliet, IL

“Great info. I learned a lot!“ Ryan Silvis, Police Officer, Wyoming Police Dept., Wyoming, MI

“Gave many opportunities to learn from very experienced people.” Josh Bower, St. Cloud, MN

“Many good instructors. Instructors willing to share their opts, teaching tools and tips. “ Kyle Jenner, St. Cloud, MN

“The variety and range of training sessions.” Jose Luis Perez, Data Collections Coordinator, Aztecs Rising, Los Angeles, CA

“Papachristos; good mix of topics.” Kevin Hegi, Staff Operations Specialist, Chicago FBI/HIDTA, Chicago, IL

“I enjoy the amount of knowledge each presenter has to offer and the different class choices. Good updated information!” Vandy Moua, Targeted Reentry, Boys and Girls Club of Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN.

“This conference was an eye opener to the wealth of information about street gangs. The presentation by Sr. Todd D. Negola. “The Criminal Mind of the Gangster,” “Critical Incident Management and First Responder” provided me with tools to be a better administrator.” Dr. Raul Luna, Assistant Principal, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago, IL

“The variety of classes is excellent. The atmosphere and networking opportunity is exceptional.” Robert Hillgoth, Investigator, Aurora Police Department, Aurora, IL

“The variety of classes offered were very informative. It was a great opportunity to network with other agencies throughout the country that are dealing with the same gang issues that we have.” Sgt. Christopher J. Munley, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, West Olive, MI

“Everyone was helpful and very knowledgeable.” Angela Lockman, Process & Background Specialist, Osage Nation Gaming Commission, Pawhuska, OK

“The knowledge, experience and friendliness of the NGCRC staff and instructors.” Cpl. Jacque Bass, Brownsburg Police Department, Brownsburg, IN

“The instructors. I learned a lot from the instructors present at this conference. I believe NGCRC did an excellent job providing well-speaking instructors with the experience to back up what they were saying and teaching.” Samuel Day, Murfreesboro Police Dept., Murfreesboro, TN

“The amount of knowledge and networking obtained from this conference has allowed agencies across the nation and world to return to their communities and combat the gang problems to make their communities a safer place for everyone.” Joshua W. Cole, Corrections Officer, Allegan County Sheriffs Department, Allegan, MI

“After 3 years, I found each year packed with current/up-to-date classes.” Angela Hall, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Brighton, CO

“Networking - very valuable experience.” Detective Javier M. Toro, Hudson County Prosecutors Office, Jersey City, NJ

“Cooperative, friendly people, Excellent presenters, Excellent networking opportunity.” Barry Peace, Social Worker, Las Cruces Public Schools - Crossroads, Las Cruces, NM

“Love learning. God bless Dr. Knox!” Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, Associate Professor, University of Detroit Mercy, Clarkston, MI

“Awesome job as always! Thank you so very much!!” Cpl. Kris Allen, Henricks Co. Sheriff’s Dept., Danville, IN.

“The conference offers many options and all that I attended were very interesting. The lectures were all very knowledgeable and open to questions. They were also very passionate about their topics.” Collin Winters, Rochester, MN

“Meeting old and new friends with common interest to serve our communities. Leonard D. Hunt, Cincinnati Job Corps Center, Cincinnati, OH.

“The amount of courses you are offered at this conference and the knowledge of the presenters.” Kyle Paul, student, School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL.

“Good experience.” Alyssa Silverstri, student, School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL.

“I really liked the presentations. I felt like I learned a lot more when I was learning from someone firsthand.” Dominique Scalzetti, student, School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL.

“Really enjoyed meeting and networking with people and I learned a lot from the classes.” Katelyn Stinson, student, School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL.

“It was so informative. So beneficial to my position. The best thing about the conference was flexibility and freedom to choose classes.” Bo Wozniak, Naperville Community Unit School District, Naperville, IL

“Hands-on field experience (tours), and material to take back to facility.” Angela Maniak, Mental Health Specialist, Isaac Ray Center, Chicago, IL

“There were some exceptionally good speakers who have relevant work experiences.” Ramón Williams, Dean of Students, Wheeling High School, Wheeling, IL

“The trainings were great. They were setup for those without prior gang knowledge to be informed and contribute positively to the field and also setup for those with prior gang knowledge to stay abreast of current/new trends to be better gang prevention workers.” Raymundo Galarza, Jr., School Social Worker, Wheeling High School, Schaumburg, IL

“This is my third year attending this conference and I’m just amazed at how much information I continue to obtain from the variety of classes offered.” Carlos P. Leal, 1^st Sergeant Gang Suppression Unit, Logansport Police Department, Logansport, IN

Statistical Evaluation Results from the 2010 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2010 Thirteenth International NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 16-18, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from over three hundred persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of "success" as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2010 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. In fact, for 2010 some 42.6 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 57.4 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2010 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The results indicated that 57.4 percent of those attending the 2010 conference did so for the first time. In other words, some 42.6 percent of those who attended the 2010 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

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

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2010 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 98.1 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2010 conference reported that “the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2010 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 84.4 percent of those attending the conference reported that it “was, in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended”. Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’s 2010 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the 2011 NGCRC 14^th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 97.3 percent of those who attended the 2010 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2011 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked “did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2010 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 93.9 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2010 NGCRC conference. The third question therefore asked the participants “was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference”. Here we find that 94.8 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked “did you attend any of the special networking receptions”? Here we find that 71.8 percent attended one or more of these specialized reception events.

What does this mean when we compare the results of questions two and three? Simple: the NGCRC delivers more. The level of reported networking achieved at the 2010 conference (94.8%) exceeded the level at which it was desired (94.7%). Another way of looking at this, is that some who did not consider networking important also achieved that networking result along with everyone else! The NGCRC promises a warm and friendly environment, and these statistics tend to support that claim.

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

A second question asked “how satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?”, and here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 7.32 was found for this factor.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 8.96, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support.

OVER A THIRD WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

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

The evaluation form asked the conference participants “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?”. The results indicated that 38.1 percent of those attending the conference reported winning something in one of the raffles.

OVER A THIRD WENT ON ONE OF THE TOURS

There were various tours arranged (tour of the hood, tour of juvenile detention center, etc) for conference participants during their stay in Chicago. The tours were available free to those registered for the conference on a first come, first sign-up basis. The evaluation form therefore included the question “did you go on any of the tours?”. The results indicated that over a quarter of all the attendees, some 40.3 percent, reported going out on one or more of the tours.

NGCRC GUESTS SOMETIMES BRING ADDITIONAL FAMILY MEMBERS WITH THEM

The NGCRC promises a “family friendly” environment for its conference participants and provided some special features in this regard (e.g., Family ID cards allowing them to take advantage of discounts at restaurants, etc in the area). The evaluation form asked “Did you bring other family members to Chicago this visit” and the results indicated that 11.9 percent brought one or more other family members with to the conference.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GIVE "HIGH GRADES" TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2010 NGCRC conference participants to “give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F”.

The results indicated that most (63.1%) gave the NGCRC an "A". An additional 32.2 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of "B". Thus, 95.3 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an "A" or "B", the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of "A minus" it would appear from the 2010 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

LOOK AT WHAT THESE PEOPLE HAD TO SAY ABOUT THE NGCRC's 2010 GANG TRAINING CONFERENCE:

These are comments from those who attended the 2010 NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago, narrative comments made in their evaluation forms.

“The presentations I attended were excellent & very informative! This was a wonderful experien e and I hope to attend for years to come. Also I really the field trainings - esp. the Juv. Detention facility.” Amy Veri, Forensic Psychologist, Cranston, RI.

“Location. Atmosphere. Size of rooms. Expertise of trainers.” Brian Bochenek, DuPage Co. Psychological Services, Wheaton, IL.

“I absolutely loved the conference. I enjoyed all the presentations, tours, and handouts. All of the presenters were excellent! This conference is “gold” and very powerful because of all the learning tools you take home. I give this gang conference 5 stars! I’m already planning for the next years conference to come back. Excellent job! Money well spent.” Kristina Padilla, M.A., California, Case Manager, Madera, CA.

“Presenters, community tours, silent auction, information. Mr. Papachristos brought life to his session with both visual & verbal excitement, I learned beyond a text or classroom”. Guillermo Gutierrez, BUILD, Inc, Chicago, IL.

“Everything was well planned. Everyone was very helpful. I really enjoyed this opportunity.” Selim Sunguroglu, Student, University of New Haven, Hartford, CT.

“The NGCRC once again developed a conference that blended theory and practice into a dynamic training experience”. Sgt. Timothy J. Griffin, Mount Prospect P.D., Mount Prospect, IL.

“Excellent presentations! The variety of sessions provide something for everyone. Great venue, I would not change locations”. Curtis W. Hedgepeth, Instructor, NC-DOC, Apex, NC.

“The speakers were knowledgeable and enthusiastic in their presentations. Most were applicable in some ways to my own particular situation. I learned a lot, made numerous contacts, and left with a lot to think about. I believe this conference will have a very beneficial impact on my work with the sets”. Dr. Ronald L. Gorny, Crossfire Gang Ministry, Chicago, IL.

“The quantity of knowledge that was available. It has really stirred up my interest and passion to continue the work”. George E. Barnes, South Arkansas Youth Services, Magnolia, AR.

“Training for trainers - outstanding class - very informative. Enjoyed the ability to attend different types of training, different points of view from the speakers.” Sgt. Gary R. Kemper, Metro Nashville Police Department, Nashville, TN.

“Awesome networking opportunity! Met a lot of people & learned a lot. Had a great time!” Jacque Hardrath, Andover, MN.

“Learned so much that will help me with my ministry. Has changed the way I think and pray about gangs and my community. So many amazing choices for workshops.” Amy L. Williams, Outreach Youth Pastor, La Casa del Carpintero, Chicago, IL.

“The training offers a variety of courses which are relevant to law enforcement personnel and provides an opportunity to network with gang specialists from all locales.” Lynda Tillis, U.S. Probation Officer, U.S. District Court, Jackson, MS.

“All the information was directly related to what I do and applicable to my everyday work.” Joe Cook, Assistant State’s Attorney, Office of the Cook County State’s Attorney, Chicago, IL.

“The materials & resources were amazing. This was an excellent experience.” Detrice Carroll, Victim Witness Supervisor, Juvenile Division, Cook Co. State’s Atty’s. Office, Chicago, IL.

“This has been the most informative conference I have ever attended. I wanted to learn more with every class I attended. I look forward to a long relationship with this organization and its participants”. Leonard D. Hunt, Cincinnati Job Corps, Cincinnati, OH.

“Excellent experience – great training, trainers, and networking...thank you!” Bill J. Conner, FBI/Indianapolis Div./Merriville R.A., Merrillville, IN.

“The NGCRC conference provides quality training and networking opportunities for gang professionals.” John Douglas “A-Train” Atkisson, Vel. R. Phillip Juv. Justice Center, Milwaukee, WI.

“Realistic and real time training from instructors who are “on the job.” Whether law enforcement, university staff, or other professionals, each instructor had a personal stake in providing knowledge we can bring home and implement in our departments.” Michael A. Garner, Agent, Terrebone Narcotics Task Force, Houma, LA.

“I really enjoyed this conference! I learned a lot!! Thank you!” Natalie Solava, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Victim/Witness Program, Chicago, IL.

“Very professional + informative.” Donald Murray, Winnipeg Police Service, Canada.

“All the different class choices are great. All the other gang schools don’t even come close. Keep up the great work.” Shawn E. Hickey, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“The speakers’ expertise is second to none — an excellent experience for anyone interested in gangs.” James O’Connor, Hamburg, NY.

“The variety of courses offered is remarkable. The amount of information that is shared through the training and follow-up networking is invaluable. This is the 2^nd time I have attended this conference, I would highly recommend it for people who have lots or no experience in gangs, it can be tailored to both.” Michael Keane, Probation Officer II, Cook County Probation Dept., Chicago, IL.

“I was wonderfully impressed with the knowledge of all of the presenters I saw. It was very evident that these presenters are committed to their life’s work!” Katy Myers, Reynoldsburg High School, Reynoldsburg, OH.

“The hotel and meeting other people from around the country and overseas.” Leila Harris, Quest for Change, Inc, Decatur, GA.

“Excellent job! Always great to interact with others at NGCRC! Thank you George and to all the hard working staff at NGCRC!” Cpl. Kris Allen, Hendricks County Sheriff’s Dept., Danville, IN.

“Wonderful field trips. Thank you for the copies of the Journal of Gang Research – great gift.” Nathalie Goldrain, Doctoral Student, University of San Francisco.

“The staff was great. The tour to Cabrini Green was exceptional. It makes the experience real & inspires everyone to move forward in our community gang reduction efforts.” Emilio Mendoza, Coordinator, L.A. Impact, Commerce, CA.

“This training had a wealth of knowledge that is very useful and helpful in my everyday life. I appreciate the professionalism of the staff and the hotel. I will definitely be back and bring others as well.” Lt. Terron K. Hayes, Albany, GA.

“My experience was very good, please keep up the good work, I thank you all for your hard work.” Iluminada Linda Roman, Victim Witness Juvenile Crimes Suburban, Cook Co. State’s Atty’s. Office, Markham, IL.

“The best thing I can say is every subject I attended had some sort of material that I can use in Memphis and my everyday work duties.” Eric Scott, Special Response Unit, Memphis City Schools, Memphis, TN.

“NGCRC provides the best gang training in the country. NGCRC fosters an incredible learning environment by bringing in class “A” trainers and topics. The NGCRC annual training is like going back to college for the week.” Dustin Keiser, York County Probation, York, PA.

“The information was great. I enjoyed the tours and the presentations. I liked the presentations that presented on actual cases. It was my first time attending. I will come back.” Christina Pollard, Executive Director, Quest for Change, Inc, Decatur, GA.

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to network with individuals from different states; I have also been able to invite some of the individuals to do training in Georgia.” Oliver Johnson, Quest for Change, Inc, Decatur, GA.

“Very strong workshops, friendly environment and secure building, the best yet.” Malik A. Aziz, Chairman, National Exhoodus Council, Philadelphia, PA.

“It is always great to see old friends + meet new ones.” Dr. Manuel Roman Jr., Sierra College, Rocklin, CA.

“Great bunch of people, staff is great, Dr. Knox is a giant in our “gang” of law enforcement. There is something here for everyone. The Christian Network was huge and inspiring. Keep up the good work.” Neil Huffine, St. Joseph County Police Department, South Bend, IN.

“Seeing so many good people dedicated to making positive change in our world.” Michael J. Witkowski, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

“There were so many good sessions, I had a hard time choosing.” Kirk Turner, Cook County Juvenile Detention Center, Chicago, IL.

“The ability to network and share experiences with other gang professionals.” Khalif Ali, PIRC Case Management, Pittsburgh Community Services, Inc, Pittsburgh, PA.

“Loved the variety of sessions available. I was happy to see that the gang prevention & intervention workers and law enforcement were able to share and collaborate.” Monica Austin-Jackson, Executive Director, New Directions for Youth, Inc, North Hollywood, CA

“Many good speakers from all over the country to provide insight into many important areas of gang information.” Sgt. Todd Gilchrist, Muskegon County Sheriff Office, Muskegon, MI.

“Good choice of classes. Lester Moore was great. So were Detectives Fidyk, Munoz & Sgt. Yoshimura from CPD. I also liked the networking. It is great to come to a training session where there is such a diverse group of classes to choose from and a large group of like minded professionals to network with and learn from.” Barry S. Reynolds, Sergeant, Sheboygan County Sheriffs Department, Sheboygan, WI.

“I enjoyed the multi-combinations of law enforcement, social work, experts in their educational disciplines, and the networking opportunities and the resources which will be available for future contact.” Dr. Ruth Parson, Counselor/Director, Pittsburgh Community Services, Inc, Pittsburgh, PA.

“There were many choices on useful topics and areas of interests for anyone working in law enforcement or corrections. It was great to meet people from all over the U.S. and the world and share experiences.” Lt. Troy Schulz, North Dakota State Penitentiary, Bismarck, ND.

“The ability to network with people from all over the country, over the entire spectrum of all gangs, probably cannot be matched anywhere.” Capt. Fred Scott, St. Joseph County Police Department, South Bend, IN.

“Presenters were very good. Great location. Very very good information presented. Learned a lot and actually enjoyed spending 24 hours in sessions, without getting bored.” Stephanie Vela, Counselor, Creative Counseling Services, Inc, Ames, IA.

“Great variety. SO many options. I appreciated the great presenters from so many backgrounds. All the rooms were spacious. Efficient use of time. Good variety of length of sessions and no wasted time. Pilsen/Little Village tour was very hands-on. It was neat to go there after we had some knowledge of the graffiti. Great to get contacts with professionals across the nation.” Kristten Buttermore, Therapist, Creative Counseling Services, Inc, Ames, IA.

“The instructors were outstanding. As an instructor myself, I picked up a lot of teaching tools.” Randy M. Dula, Correctional Training Instructor II, NC DOC - OSDT, Lenoir, NC.

“Whether you are a presenter, participant or both, the conference is about sharing our knowledge, skills + experiences; fantastic!” Lisa Steenson, Social Worker, City of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.

“Knowledgeable and experienced training staff; networking with other attendees.” Matthew Sanders, Corrections Officer, Allegan County Sheriffs Department, Allegan, MI.

“I really enjoyed the presentations and opportunities to network. Good to listen and learn from presenters who had information about trends from around the world.” Robert Simmons, Oak Park Township, Oak Park, IL .

“The layout & being able to choose classes was great.” Lorenzo A. Fiorentino, Probation Officer, Cook County Juvenile Probation, Park Ridge, IL.

“Broad scope of presenters and gang specialists, good networking tool.” Stanley Leigh, U.S. Probation Officer, U.S. Probation, Alexandria, VA.

“Overall everything was great. I will return. Very informative. Good mix of research based & field techniques.” Deepa Patel, Multicultural Clinical Center, Springfield, VA.

“The networking and sharing experiences and information with the different presenters and attendees. When you leave this conference you are always excited for the following year. Dr. Knox and staff, keeping doing what you are called to do, thanks.” Ricky E. Lattimore Sr., Juvenile Court/Liaison/Pastor, Tabernacle Baptist Church, McGehee, AR.

“A lot of presenters had good things to pass on and were a wealth of knowledge. They were receptive, articulate and seemed genuinely excited to pass on their expertise.” Erick Chavez, Sparks Police Department, Sparks, NV.

“I like the fact that there were plenty of choices to choose from, along with the amount of experience some of the presenters had. Great experience!” Vandy Moua, Boys and Girls Club of Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN.

“Everything was great, just want more. All presenters engaged the attendees in a very enjoyable and informative experience. Highly appreciative to have attended.” David Flores, Supervising Probation Officer, Cook County Juvenile Court, Beecher, IL.

“The variety of information was useful in many ways. Tailoring your schedule so that it fits your interest is a great idea.” Tera McIntosh, Case Manager/Intake, Pittsburgh Community Services, Inc, Pittsburgh, PA.

“The presenters were the best in their field.” Larry LawrenceJr., Cook County Juvenile Detention Center, Chicago, IL.

“This was an overall great conference. The best part was the networking and information.” Ashlie Simmons, Detective Constable, Bermuda Police,Hamilton, Bermuda.

“I learned even more than last year, I learned tools & ideas I can take back to my agency & implement immediately.” Jackie Henke, Program Manager, The LINK, Denver, CO.

“Loved the variety of sessions. And the trainers were fabulous. All staff very helpful.” Jimmie E. Slone, Student Personnel Manager, Horizons Youth Services, Carl D. Perkins Job Corps, Prestonsburg, KY.

“Networking & the tour. Chicago is great.” Sondra Seals, Program Coordinator, Boys & Girls Club, Comin’ Up Program, Fort Worth, TX.

“Mr. Knox and his very knowledgeable staff were very helpful in assisting me and the rest of my staff. Kudos! I can’t wait for 2011!” Anthony Dewayne Johnson, Indiana Army National Guard, “Counter Drug”, Indianapolis, IN.

“Multiple speakers providing great information on a variety of topics. Great choices, great conference.” Reginald Patterson, Gang Unit Officer, City of Madison PD, Madison, WI.

“I have more weapons of knowledge to return home and teach to my community.” Veronica Tucker, New Jersey Dept. Of Corrections, Trenton, NJ.

“I have more knowledge on gang intervention/prevention as well as I am more equipped to provide better services to my state, community & county.” Louis Guiden Jr., “Life Coach”

GuidenU4Life, Federal Way, WA.

“I found this conference engaging due to the passion and dedication of those involved. As someone who is not particularly social, from the west coast, and not involved in law enforcement, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to network and interact with people. Everyone was friendly, no one was pretentious, and everyone brought something to the table. The curriculum was well rounded, and I appreciated the diversity of topics covered and the chance to learn about what is happening in other regions of the country. Thanks for a great event, I am very glad I came and hope to come back in the future.” Jim Sutton, California State University, Chico, Department of Sociology, Chico, CA.

“Lots of classes, staff was great, can’t wait for the 2011 conference.” Charley Brown, Corporal, Franklin Co. Sheriff’s Office, Columbus, OH.

“Large variety of classes with very knowledgeable speakers.” Rita Verttage, Deputy, Kent County Sheriffs Department, Grand Rapids, MI.

“Very fluid and definitely a tone of different topics to choose from. Very well organized event. I picked up some info., stats, etc. that I will definitely incorporate into my future presentations.” Ed Ryan, Fairfax Court Service Unit, Fairfax, VA.

“Only conference I am aware of that balances policing (suppression) with intervention.” Hugo Foss, Senior Advisor, Justice/Gangs, Assembly of First Nations, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

“This has been my fourth NGCRC conference and in my opinion it gets better each year. From the ability to network with other gang specialists to the knowledge and expertise of the presenters, this conference is second to none. Count me in for next year.” Michael Pietruszynski, Palos Heights Police Department (DEA), Palos Heights, IL.

“I had the opportunity to meet other gang specialists but more importantly learn more about gangs and techniques of how to work effectively with gang members.” Cory Rawlinson, Outreach Worker, Project BUILD, Durham, NC.

“The conference provided the opportunity to gain insight into many areas and aspects that can assist in everyday policing. It was very intensive with many of the presenters exhibiting a wealth of knowledge and experience. Networking was great.” Nigel Orlando Gitens, Police Sergeant, Bermuda Police, Bermuda.

“Huge selection of classes.” Larry Parham, Sedalia Police Dept., Sedalia, MO.

“Overall this was a great learning experience. I work as a special ed teacher and behavioral interventionist at the high school level. We have a large amount of gang members in our program. Everyone what works with this population needs this training. I learned more in 3 days than 2 years of grad school.” Tom Tarrant, Oak Park River Forest High School, Brookfield, IL.

Want to See A Huge Amount of Additional Positive Comments About NGCRC Training Conferences? If Yes, Click Here.

List of the possible "Tracks" for 2012:

A "track" is an area of expertise. Think of it as a kind of "major" in college. It is a specific topical area of study and concern in the world of the gang specialist. Here is a complete list of the "tracks" that are offered for training by the NGCRC.

(1) Gang Crime Investigation Skills Track

(2) Gang Homicide Investigation Skills Track

(3) Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills Track

(4) Gangs and Mental Health Track

(5) Gang Profile Analysis Track

(6) Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills Track

(7) Gangs and Drugs Track

(8) Gang Prosecution Track

(9) Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence Track

(10) Gang Prevention Skills Track

(11) Gang Problems in K-12 Schools Track

(12) Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention Track

(13) Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs Track

(14) Gang Counseling Techniques Track

(15) International and Transnational Gang Problems Track

(16) Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs Track

(17) Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole Track

(18) Advanced Gang Identification

(19) Gang Internet Investigation

(20) Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists

(21) Motorcycle Gangs (restricted: for Criminal Justice Personnel only)

(22) Female Gangs/Female Gang Members.Track

(23) Gang Program Grantwriting/Fundraising Skills Track

(24) Gangs and the Mass Media Track

(25) Spatio-Temporal Gang Analysis Track

(26) Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities

(27) Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators

(28) Gangs in the Military

(29) Gang Arson Investigation Skills Track

(30) Gangs and Organized Crime

(31) Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services Track

(32) Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills Track

(33) Graffiti Identification and Analysis

You can always wait until July 15, 2012 to actually declare your track; just mark on your form "TBA" to be announced; TBPL to be picked later; and after registering we will send you a form that allows you to make your decision at a later date.

THRASHER AWARDS:

A Call for Nominations

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

Thrasher is known for his book The Gang: 1,313 Gangs in Chicago. Some 50 copies of this book will be given away free of charge at the 2010 Conference: in one of the “door prize drawings”.

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

If you know someone who as achieved something outstanding in this area, then please send your nominations to: The 2012 Thrasher Awards Committee, National Gang Crime Research Center, P.O. Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468.

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

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

Thrasher Awards will be made at NGCRC's 2012 Fifteenth International Gang Specialist Training Program for persons who have made outstanding contributions in research, scholarship, service, leadership, and other accomplishments in dealing with the gang problem. These Awards cannot be made in absentia.

Thrasher Awards are made on-site during the Conference in a special ceremony. These awards cannot be made in absentia. Awards ceremony time and date (during the 2012 Conference in Chicago, 7:00 am Opening Ceremony for the Conference), tentatively scheduled for Monday, 7:00am, July 23nd, 2012. Recipients must be seated in the front row area. Arrive just before 7am and check in with the staff in front, tell them you are an Award Recipient. Opening ceremony will be located in the Cotillion Room, 2nd Floor of the hotel.

Thrasher Award Recipients for 2012 include the following:

To Be Announced.

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

The National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) has pioneered the field by first of all being producers of gang knowledge, publishing and disseminating useful information recognized at the highest levels of the social scientific community. Additionally, the NGCRC has a long track record of service (1990 to present) to law enforcement and correctional agencies nationwide in the goal of reducing gang violence. The research and intelligence analysis developed by the NGCRC over the years, and published in its scholarly journal, the Journal of Gang Research (now in its 17th year of publication), is of great practical value for gang investigators in law enforcement and STG coordinators in the field of corrections. Gang investigators at all levels of government, here and abroad, as well as gang/STG experts in corrections who attend the NGCRC training conferences have clearly made their views known that the NGCRC training is the best in regard to offering high quality practical choices. Police and corrections experts teach a variety of courses at the NGCRC training conference.

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

WANT TO SEE MORE EVALUATIONS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF NGCRC TRAINING? If Yes, Click Here.

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

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

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

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

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

The Verify My Registration Form

Name:_______________________________________________________________________________________

Mailing address:________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________________________________________________________

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

PROCEDURE FOR REGISTERING BY MEANS OF A PURCHASE ORDER

This explains the new streamlined policy and procedure for persons from government agencies who seek to register for the 2012 NGCRC Training Conference by means of a Purchase Order or related type of procurement method. There are three main provisions of this policy and procedure and they are as follows:

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

2. Fax your registration forms and the Purchase Order to the NGCRC ASAP. The NGCRC fax number is (708) 258-9546. After faxing it in, simply complete the registration form and attach a purchase order and mail it in ASAP to: National Gang Crime Research Center, 2012 Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. We do need it faxed and mailed as well. Please note that the deadline for Purchase Orders faxed to the NGCRC is July 15, 2012 (unless you call and obtain exemption from this deadline). Please note that the NGCRC will not accept “onsite” registrations by means of oral declarations that “my agency is going to pay for it”, and will not accept on-site purchase orders. If you are planning to pay by means of Purchase Order, then it must be done before the conference.

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

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

THE TRAINING SCHEDULE:

The training schedule is as follows:

July 22 (Sunday), 2012: You can register from 3:00pm to 10:00pm, pick up your badge and bag of goodies.

July 23 (Monday), 2012: Opening day begins 7am with an Official Welcoming Ceremony. Classes begin at 8:00am. And continue into the night.

July 24 (Tuesday), 2012: early riser sessions begin 6am; regular sessions begin 8am and continue into the night.

July 25 (Wednesday), 2012: early riser sessions begin 6am; regular sessions begin 8am, and terminate at 5:00p.m. You must pick up your certificates before 6:00pm.

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

An Option for 2012: The Double Major

(Signing Up for Two Tracks)

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

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

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

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

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

A: None.

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

A: Two: one for your program of study reflecting the completion of the 2012 program consisting of 24 hours of training, and one for your specialty area. Previously in history people attending the conference could only have one track.

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

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

Q: How much does it cost to sign up for the Two Track Option?

A: $90.00 if paid before July 1^st; $105 if paid on or after that or onsite.

Q: What if there is a scheduling conflict and I discover at the conference I cannot accumulate the minimum number of hours in one of the two tracks?

A: We will refund your Two Track Option amount in full, no problem; and return you to the one track registration mode of your choice.

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The Two Track Sign Up Form

Print Name:____________________________________________________

Address:______________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:_________________________________________________

Print name of 2^nd Track here:_______________________________________

Enclose $90.00 check or money order made payable to the National Gang Crime Research Center, and mail to: NGCRC, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990.

If paying on or after July 1, 2012 please note that the fee increases to $105.

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GOT QUESTIONS: Call the NGCRC at (708) 258-9111

The "Added Value" of NGCRC Training:

The added value of NGCRC training is easy to explain and it is designed to be different than other groups who sponsor such training conferences: you get more for your money. You see that reflected in the evaluation results from previous NGCRC Conferences. Other people "copy" what we do, or they try to. But you can do a quick check of facts here: who else offers as many different sessions or courses than the NGCRC? It is such a huge and massive undertaking, that persons who attend this conference benefit from the very factor of "diversity" in the choices they have --- what they want to learn, what instructors they want to learn from, etc

First, all NGCRC trainees are given a wealth of high-quality take home printed training materials. The value of these books, reflecting the official books and journals from the NGCRC and related topics of interest about gangs, is itself a value comparable to the price of training itself. Most gang training programs provide a small amount of take-home written training materials, while the NGCRC provides an abundance of high-quality written take-home training materials. All persons attending the conference receive a "bag of goodies" which includes these kinds of useful written take-home training materials.

Secondly, no other training organization in the world provides the large variety of training options that the NGCRC provides; the NGCRC brings in more trainers and provides, therefore, more "choices" to trainees. NGCRC provides a large professional training experience in an environment designed for training. For example in the 2011 Conference there were over one hundred different sessions. Typically, gang conferences offer a small selection of training options. So if you think a variety of choices is a good thing, then you need to attend our training conference.

Thirdly, the NGCRC training is designed to produce "trainers": trainees who attend and complete the training typically return to their respective jurisdictions with an incredible new arsenal of training tools to train others in the field. You will get new and useful gang information at our 2012 Training Conference.

Fourthly, the NGCRC training includes social opportunities that are structured to enhance the ability of the trainee to network with others in the field at a national and international level.

BENEFITS OF ATTENDING THE 2012 NGCRC TRAINING CONFERENCE:

You have the power to "choose" what you want to learn. You have the right to "major in" what area of specialization or concentration you are interested in. Our conference provides an incredible array of different professional gang training sessions that trainees can make up their own minds what they want to attend. This is not the "one size fits all" model of training where every trainee attends each of a small limited number of training sessions and every trainer works all day to give the same talk three or four times. Our training program provides what we think people really want: the freedom to choose what kind of training they want from an incredible list of available choices. If you wanted a "Crash Course" on gangs, then this would be it.

There has never been a gang training conference where people can "specialize" in a wide variety of areas of expertise. So the 2012 NGCRC Gang Training Conference really is a "history making event". It allows persons to network with others in their special area of interests and it has the organizational strength of much diversity among the trainers. It also has curriculum materials that are truly "cutting-edge". No one else promises you NETWORKING RESULTS. We do, based on previous performance.

Obviously, no single person could ever attend each and every one of the many different sessions that will be available for the 2012 Fifteenth International Gang Specialist Training Program: one person has only 24 hours to spend in classroom training. There may be six or more different "sessions" being taught at the same time: you can only be in one place at one time. So make your session choices wisely by studying the huge curriculum.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION OPTIONS:

Trainees can register for Non-Certification or they can register for Certification. Both of these registration options are explained below.

Non-Certification: This option is for those who do not need a transcript to be maintained of their training experience and who do not desire a high quality certificate in an upward path of gang specialist training. This option is best for those who just want to attend, get the training materials, and be free to come and go as they wish. Trainees are eligible to receive 24 hours of on-site training during the conference. Please note that if you register for non-certification you do not receive any certificates of your training. Non-certification trainees do receive the same high quality set of take home training materials as those who register for Certification. Persons registering for non-certification are allowed to "upgrade" their registration to Certification; please inquire in writing about this procedure.

Certification: The certification is provided by the National Gang Crime Research Center, the premier gang research organization in the world, founded in 1990 it publishes the only professional international refereed journal about gangs (the Journal of Gang Research), it does extensive research on gangs, and it has a strong positive track record for providing high quality training on gang issues. TheJournal of Gang Research has over 15 years of gang research publishing experience and as the Official Publication of the NGCRC it is abstracted in the Psychological Abstracts, Criminal Justice Abstracts, Sociological Abstracts, Social Service Abstracts, and other international organizations that recognize professional journals. For more information about the accomplishments of the NGCRC, see its webpage information (www.ngcrc.com). The NGCRC was given much positive attention in the November/December 2002 (No. 67) National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS) Catalog, U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs as a source of useful information on gangs (pp. 15, 17; this is not "advertising", because the NGCRC reports it recommended at our Web site were not government-funded and the NGCRC is not government funded, thus it is simply achieved positive recognition.

There are a number of different choices for a person seeking certification. You must select ONE of these areas of specialization for your own designated track when you register for certification.

When you register for certification, you select one "track" as your primary interest area. Your "track" is like your "major" in college. You must spend at least four hours in sessions designated for your "track". The other 20 hours of training are "electives": spend that time in any session you want to attend.

When you register for certification you receive two professionally printed color certificates of high display quality reflecting your training. One of these certificates reflects the completion of the 2012 Training Program; and the second certificate reflects your specialized training in your chosen track area. Those registering for non-certification do not receive such certificates.

CERTIFICATION UPGRADE:

This is applicable ONLY for those who have previously received certification from the NGCRC. The NGCRC provides for Certification Upgrades as explained here, free, automatically when you indicate your previous certification training with the NGCRC.

The registration form asks if you have completed prior Certification Training with the NGCRC. If you have, then you are eligible for a Certification Upgrade, so fill this out on the registration form. This Certification Upgrade procedure recognizes the cumulative nature of training over time (1997-present).

The intermediate, advanced, expert, professional, and master levels of certification therefore recognize this prior NGCRC training. The Basic Training Program is for those persons who have completed no prior certification with the NGCRC. When you register for Certification, you receive two certificates: one in your area of specialization, and one reflecting your level of Certification. The levels of certification are explained below.

If you have previously obtained Certification from the NGCRC, then you are eligible for a Certification Upgrade to one of the following options:

Intermediate Level Training Program: completed 24 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Advanced Level Training Program: completed 48 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Expert Level Training Program: completed 72 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Professional Level Training Program: completed 96 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 1 (First Degree) Training Program: completed 120 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 2 (Second Degree) Training Program: completed 144 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 3 (Third Degree) Training Program: completed 168 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 4 (Fourth Degree) Training Program: completed 192 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 5 (Fifth Degree) Training Program: completed 216 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 6 (Sixth Degree) Training Program: completed 240 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 7 (Seventh Degree) Training Program: completed 264 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 8 (Eighth Degree) Training Program: completed 288 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 9 (Ninth Degree) Training Program: completed 312 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 10 (Tenth Degree) Training Program: completed 336 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

CERTIFICATION OPTIONS: Those who register for certification receive two high quality certificates reflecting their training. Those who register for non-certification receive no certificate. However, those who register for non-certification are eligible to upgrade to full certification anytime prior to the conference itself, just pay the $100 additional cost.

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Upgrade from Non-Certification to Full Certification Form

My name is:_______________________________________________________________

I am already registered for Non-Certification. I wish to change my registration to full Certification.

My training track will be:______________________________________________________

I enclose $100.00 to upgrade my registration to full Certification.

Mail this form to: NGCRC, Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468

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When registering for certification, the trainee selects one special "track" from the available list. What this means is that the trainee must spend at least four (4) hours in attending sessions designed for that specific "track"; the remaining twenty (20) hours can be used attending anything the trainee wants to attend.

Select Your Certification Specialty Choice From a List of 32 Different Options (Training Tracks):

Those who register for certification receive two high quality 8 �" x 11" certificates reflecting their training. The certificates carry the seal of the National Gang Crime Research Center. If you register for certification, then you receive two certificates (1) one reflects that you completed the NGCRC's 2012 program consisting of 24 hours of intensive training, and (2) the second certificate reflects that you completed a minimum of four hours in a specialized topical area, i.e., your "track". Those who register for non-certification do not receive any certificates. Registering for non-certification is cheaper. However, those who register for non-certification are eligible to upgrade their enrollment to full certification on or before July 1, 2012, just pay the extra $100 additional cost accompanied with the "Upgrade to Certification" form. The NGCRC conference does attract head hunters and administrators who may not necessarily need or want certification. But if you ever anticipate the need to provide quality proof of your training, you probably want to sign up for certification. When registering for certification, you need to select ONE (1) of the special gang certification training tracks from the available list. There are 32 options on the list. You need to pick one. What this means is that the trainee must spend at least four (4) hours in attending sessions designed for that specific "track", and the remaining twenty (20) hours can be used attending anything the trainee wants to attend.

SPECIAL TRAINING TRACKS: Several specialized training tracks exist for those registering for Certification. The trainee receives a second certificate for the one area of chosen concentration, reflecting an intensive 4-hour minimum training requirement that is fulfilled during regular training sessions at the conference. A trainee registering for Certification must pick ONE of the specialized training track options. Current areas for choices in the specialized training tracks include the following options:

(1) Gang Crime Investigation Skills Track

(2) Gang Homicide Investigation Skills Track

(3) Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills Track

(4) Asian Gang Issues Track

(5) Gang Profile Analysis Track

(6) Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills Track

(7) Gangs and Drugs Track

(8) Gang Prosecution Track

(9) Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence Track

(10) Gang Prevention Skills Track

(11) Gang Problems in K-12 Schools Track

(12) Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention Track

(13) Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs Track

(14) Gang Counseling Techniques Track

(15) International and Transnational Gang Problems Track

(16) Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs Track

(17) Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole Track

(18) Advanced Gang Identification

(19) Gang Internet Investigation

(20) Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists

(21) Motorcycle Gangs (restricted: for Criminal Justice Personnel only)

(22) Female Gangs.Track

(23) Gang Program Grantwriting/Fundraising Skills Track

(24) Gangs and the Mass Media Track.

(25) Spatio-Temporal Gang Analysis Skills Track.

(26) Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

(27) Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators.

(28) Gangs in the Military

(29) International and Transnational Gang Problems

(30) Gangs and Organized Crime

(31) Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

(32) Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

(33) Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Please note: you have the option to delay making a decision about your track by just marking your form "TBA" where it asks for your track name, and this will be treated as "To Be Announced", and you have until July 15, 2012 to actually make up your mind about what track you want to have. Also, you can change your "Track" at anytime on or before July 15, 2012. To change your track, just fax a memo to that effect to the NGCRC Conference Registration Center: (708) 258-9546.

Cancellation, Refunds, and Replacements Policy:

If you cancel on or before May 21, 2012, and the cancellation form is received on or before May 21, 2012, all of your registration fee minus the $75 cancellation fee will be refunded to you (refund checks are mailed out approximately 2 weeks AFTER the conference is over with).

If you cancel on or after May 22, 2012 and the cancellation form is received by the NGCRC on or before June 21, 2012, you are entitled to a refund in the amount of half (50%) of the registration fee, minus the $75 cancellation fee as well; refund checks are mailed out approximately 2 weeks AFTER the conference is over with.

Note: After 6-22-2012 there are no longer any refunds allowed. No-shows are non-refundable. We cannot be responsible for any transportation problems you had.

Note: It is not an affirmative defense to say you had trouble with our fax machine getting your cancellation form submitted "on time". You need to be using the United States Postal Service as your primary vehicle of notification, so that it has an official "time and date" stamp on it. If you are "late" with regard to dates for cancelling, then late means the terms and conditions apply. There are no exceptions to the terms and conditions for cancellation and refunds and replacements as listed here.

Note: You can "swap" or replace someone for a paid position. There is no additional cost for replacements. Just make sure you promptly do this on agency stationary and get it faxed and mailed in ASAP.

As always the NGCRC will provide prompt refunds in cases where a trainee must cancel and contacts us to that effect, with sufficient advance notice, before the conference. However, because I.D.'s, credentials, and materials have already been prepared at time of the receipt of registration, and other related expenses will have already been incurred by the NGCRC on behalf of the registered trainee, a $75.00 fee will be assessed for any cancellation. If you need to cancel your registration, therefore, the NGCRC is responsible only for your registration fee refund minus the $75.00 cancellation fee. Further, there is a long-standing policy in a number of organizations providing training such as this to limit the amount of the refund: thus, if the cancellation request is received on or before May 21st, 2012, we will refund the entire registration fee minus the $75 cancellation fee.

However, if the cancellation request is received after May 22, 2012 and on or before June 21st, 2012 only 50% of the amount will be refundable (minus the additional $75 cancellation fee); and if the cancellation request is received on or after June 22nd, 2012, there are no refunds allowed. There are no special exceptions such as health, sickness, court duty, etc. It is important that you follow the format of the cancellation request: the cancellation request must be in writing, a phone call will not suffice; the written request must be mailed to the NGCRC, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468; and please fax us a copy as well (708) 258-9546, in the request please state who we should make the refund check payable to. No cancellations will be accepted by Email service or over the internet: U.S. Postal Service and fax are the two methods you need to use.

Replacements: replacements are allowed at any time. Should someone who has been registered for the conference be unable to attend, the agency may send a replacement at no extra cost. However, if you intend to do this, please notify us in writing so that the notice is received one week in advance to be able to have the proper ID Badge ready at time of registration. If you wait until the last minute, then it is still possible to send a replacement: but we would have to make their ID BADGE on-site at the Conference location. If you do want to send a replacement, kindly fax that request to (708) 258-9546 and follow-up with a phone call to (708) 258-9111. On-site replacements are also allowed.

The NGCRC refund policy supercedes any credit card policy if the person so registered for the conference has paid conference fees by means of a credit card.

No-Shows Non-Refundable: Those who are registered, but do not show up for the conference are not eligible for a refund.

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Please Print and Execute this Refund Form if you Want a Refund:

REFUND FORM:

My name is _________________________ Today’s date is _______ . I paid $_______ for registration for the 2011 Fourteenth International Gang Specialist Training Program, and I will not be able to attend, and I am requesting a refund.

I understand that if this form is received by the NGCRC before May 21st, 2012 I am entitled to a full refund minus the $75 cancellation fee.
I understand if the cancellation request is received after May 22nd, 2012 and on or before June 21st, 2012 only 50% of the amount will be refundable (minus the $75 cancellation fee); and if the cancellation request is received on or after June 22nd, 2012, there are no refunds allowed

Please make the refund check payable to _________________________

Mail it to:__________________________________________________

Note: Refund Form must be “received” by fax or U.S. Postal Service on or before designated eligibility dates.

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After June 22nd, 2012 no REFUNDS ARE ALLOWED. However, you can have a free "replacement". Just complete the replacement form provided here.

Replacement and Cancellation Form

Name of registration being cancelled:_____________________________________________

Name of Replacement for the above cancellation:____________________________________

Attach new registration form for the replacement and fax this on your letterhead to NGCRC: (708) 258-9546

POLICY WITH REGARD TO ON-SITE REGISTRATIONS:

1. Please beware that the NGCRC may not accept your on-site registration due to a lack of space (it is expected that the registrations will close early this year). One of the things the NGCRC does is prepare a very elaborate and valuable "goody bag" for all persons attending the conference, and we spend a great deal of effort and manpower in preparing exactly the number of bags needed. We cannot create more bags for unexpected “new arrivals”. If you are planning on registering onsite, even for a one day pass, you should call in advance to make sure we have room.

2. Everyone who is registered for this conference receives POSITIVE PROOF of their registration in the form of a confirmation letter from the NGCRC. If you have never received one of these letters from the NGCRC confirming your registration for the conference, then it is clear: you are not registered for the conference.

3. Because of past abuses: the NGCRC will no longer accept promises of payment from agencies or individuals on-site. You will not be able to show up with a Purchase Order and register onsite.

REGISTRATION COSTS:

Note that the cost schedule refers to when exactly the payment is actually made for the training registration. There have been no increases in costs for the NGCRC Training Conference; the costs for 2012 remain the same as in 2012.

Thus the earlier the registration is processed the cheaper the registration cost. This sliding scale provides an incentive to register early in case "slots" for the training conference fill up early; as we do expect them to fill up early; we may at some point therefore not accept additional registrations if space is filled. Watch this Website for the notice of whether slots are available.

EARLY REGISTRATION PERIOD:

Paying on or before February 28, 2012: Non-Certification $650 Certification $700.

REGULAR REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or after March 1, 2012 and on or before March 31, 2012: Non-Certification $700 Certification $750.

Paying on or after April 1, 2012 and on or before April 30, 2012: Non-Certification $750 Certification $800.

Paying on or after May 1, 2012 and on or before May 31, 2012: Non-Certificatin $800, Certification $850

LATE REGISTRATION PERIODS:

Paying on or after June 1, 2012 and on or before June 30, 2012: Non-Certification $850 Certification $900

Paying on or after July 1, 2012 and on or before July 20, 2012: Non-Certification $900 Certification $950:

ONSITE REGISTRATION:

Paying On-Site (if slots are available): Non-Certification: $950 Certification $1,000

Special Notice on On-Site Registration: (1) it is best that you get an advance "approval" from the NGCRC for any intention of trying to register for on-site registration, this is true for several reasons, including the lack of space, (2) because space is limited and we will not admit you automatically you are urged to notify the NGCRC in writing of your intent to register on-site, further that the NGCRC have this notification on or before July 15, (3) get your "clearance code" to register on-site, as we cannot guarantee any space available for "walkins".

Multiple Registration Discount:

Any agency registering three persons, simultaneously, is eligible for a $100 discount off the total training cost (by which we mean a $33.33 discount for each of the three). Additional discounts would apply for those agencies registering four or more persons (simultaneously) for training. An agency registering more than three persons, simultaneously, will qualify for a Group Discount Code. Call the National Gang Crime Research Center to inquire about group rates (708 258-9111). The Group Discount Code provides a sliding-scale group rate discount. There is no retroactive value: if you do not apply for a Group Discount Code in advance of registration then you are not eligible for it. Inquire about your eligibility for other discounts (e.g., if you were registered for some other gang training conference that had to be cancelled if they are reputable organizations the NGCRC might have established discount incentives we can offer persons who were not able to attend due to the conference being cancelled --- the NGCRC works with a lot of such organizations.....so just inquire to see if you are eligible for a discount, sometimes we can help, sometimes we can't....it depends on what organization cancelled out on you.....the one thing you can always count on is that the NGCRC will never cancel on you).

There are no multiple registration discounts for the One Day Pass.

EXHIBITORS:

Various exhibitors are expected at the Conference, including books, materials about gangs. If you are a company that wants to exhibit, call the NGCRC for details, (708) 258-9111. Vendors are not allowed to attend training sessions. Vendors get about 20 hours of exhibit time (from 9am Monday until noon Wednesday).

PICKING UP YOUR REGISTRATION MATERIALS:

Trainees need to pick up their registration materials, these include: I.D. Badge, Evaluation Form, Conference Proceedings, and related materials distributed to trainees. You pick up your registration materials at the Training Site: the hotel, ask for the NGCRC Operations Center room, or follow conspicuously posted signage.

Trainees may pick up their registration materials during the evening of Sunday, July 22, 2012. That is early registration. This will start at 3:00 p.m. and last until 10:00 p.m.

Trainees may also pick up their registration materials during the early morning registration period (starting at 6:00 a.m. on Monday July 23, 2012). That is the regular registration.

Trainees may also pick up their registration materials at any time during the training schedule by coming to the Operations Room at the Training Site. That would cover anyone arriving for late registration.

THE REGULAR TRAINING TIME SCHEDULE

Here is the Monday (July 23, 2012), Tuesday (July 24, 2012), Wednesday (July 25, 2012) training schedule (July 23-25, 2012): training sessions 8:00 am-noon, 1 hour lunch break, training sessions 1:00 pm-5:00 pm. Thus, a total of 24 training hours are logged in during the regular training schedule. We do, of course, offer "pre-conference" sessions for credit (on Sunday afternoon: mostly for those new to gang/STG investigation).

Some evening functions (after 5:00 p.m.) are also going to be scheduled. There are also "early riser" sessions: for those who want a session before 8am. There will even be "noon sessions": we are doing this to accommodate travel arrangements where persons may arrive late, or where they may have to leave the training site to return early. Dress code: informal. All training rooms are airconditioned.

THE NGCRC IS A FAMILY FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT:

The NGCRC, unlike most other conferences, is "family friendly". If you have a spouse or children who may need to visit with you during your training time period, the NGCRC has established the "family friendly policy" of providing Conference Identification Badges to family members (spouses, children, etc). This allows them to come in and have coffee/lemonade and donuts with you, etc. Thus, you are not "isolated" from your family. To receive I.D. badge credentials for your family members, just ask for "Family ID Credentials" in a fax or written letter to the NGCRC: Give their names. When you register, to pick up your own Registration Materials, you will find their "Family ID's" in your own registration kit. They will be allowed into the "secure areas" so they may contact you. These "family members" will not receive "Goody Bags" or conference materials, but they will be allowed past the security check points and will therefore be able to pass without delay or hindrance to meet with you if necessary. Some restaurants and eateries give NGCRC trainees a discount (no discount on liquor, food only), and all you have to do is show your Conference Identification Badge. The "Family ID's" are good for the food discounts.

Enhancements --- EARLY, NOON, and EVENING SESSIONS:

To accommodate those individuals who want to leave early on Wednesday July 25th, and still allow them to accumulate their 24 hours of training, we are this year planning to offer some early morning, lunch time, and evening sessions. The current plan is to have a few such sessions available for this purpose. This will provide at least four (4) hours of training outside of the regular training schedule, which will allow persons who need to leave at noon on Friday to do so.

Rooms are available at the Hotel at the same rate for Friday nights and Saturday as well, at the same rates, if anyone is interested in getting cheaper flights by staying an extra day or so: just ask the hotel registration personnel. You should be able to get the same rate for two days prior and two days after the 22-24 July time frame. If you have trouble with the hotel, feel free to call the NGCRC and ask for the "hotel liaison" to see if there is anything we can do to help. Sometimes the "block of bumper rooms" sells out (bumper rooms are those before and after the conference).

You basically "pick and choose" your own custom-made training schedule. You can take your pick from a number of different session choices. There are typically six or seven sessions going on at any particular time. So, you just "vote with your feet". The full schedule of courses by room numbers, and day/time slots will be posted at this website prior to the conference. You can therefore study it and more effectively use your training time prior to arrival.

DRESS CODE:

We have had a number of questions about "dress code" from persons registered to attend the conference. We can clarify this now: there is no dress code. Dress casual, it is summer time. If you want to dress more formally, that's okay too. Your laminated military-style identification badge for the conference gives you access to the building locations you need access to (and entitles you to a discount on food, no booze, at local restaurants on our "NGCRC Discount List").

USE OF COMMUNICATION DEVICES AND MATERIALS AT THE 2012 NGCRC GANG TRAINING CONFERENCE: SPECIFIC RESTRICTIONS AND SPECIFIC PROHIBITIONS

1. BACKGROUND
The National Gang Crime Research Center's annual gang specialist training conferences often relate sensitive information and/or data via various forms of communication, and are attended by undercover officers.
2. DEFINITIONS
A. Communication Devices: Are defined as digital or film cameras, digital or videotape recorders, digital or tape voice recorders, cellular telephones capable of transmitting visual images or recording audio memos, and apparatuses capable of transmitting or recording textual messages.
B. Materials: Are defined as any spoken words of an instructor, any MS PowerPoint slides, any photocopied handouts, any official and unofficial publications, and the visual identity (facial recognition) of any undercover agents.
C. Originator: Is defined as the person, persons, organization, or agency responsible for the authorship (i.e., preparation, presentation, publication, and/or utterance) of any of the above materials.
3. POLICY
This policy is, therefore, established for the use and protection of the aforementioned.
A. Communication devices capable of recording are prohibited from use within the training area--noting the following.
(1) Except as employed by NGCRC staff or security personnel.
(2) Except as authorized by the NGCRC Director or Security Staff Chief.
B. Communication devices capable of transmission are prohibited from use within the training area--noting the following.
(1) Except as necessary to remain in contact for official business related to one's employment.
(2) Cellular telephones and pagers may remain on, but must be set at the least distractive alert setting possible [such as "vibrate"].
(3) All conversation or messaging will be conducted in the hallways and not in classrooms during class sessions.
C. An originator's written permission must be obtained before quoting, paraphrasing, or otherwise referencing any portion of the above-mentioned materials under the following conditions.
(1) When within any journalistic context.
(2) When within any mass media context.
(3) When within any proceedings of an official nature

4. VIOLATIONS

Any violations of this policy shall be grounds for immediate and permanent expulsion of said persons violating this policy from the conference.

THE CHRISTIAN GANG SPECIALIST RECEPTION:

This is available only to persons registered for the conference. This will be held during an "off time" in the regular conference schedule. If you answered "YES" to the question on your registration form "I am interested in networking with Christian gang specialists while at this conference", then your I.D. Badge is already coded with a special ticket code that allows you into this reception. If you answered "NO" or left the quastion blank, it was assumed you are not interested. If you fall into the latter category, the Session Attendance Simulation Survey will ask you a second time if you want to be added to the group of persons who will attend this special networking reception. As we need to plan on how many are attending, no "walk ins" will be allowed. And as is the NGCRC tradition, of course, there are "door prizes" at this reception. Come prepared for some amazing testimony.

The chairs of the 2012 NGCRC Christian Gang Specialist Reception are: Brother Jim Fogarty, M.Div., Brothers and Sisters of Love, Catholic Charities, Chicago, Illinois and Dr. George Knox. The format this year will likely be a light luncheon format (we are still working out specific arrangements: so stay tuned to this website for further details and developments). As always, there is no extra "charge" for signing up for receptions that may also provide you with food, beverages, etc. It is something you are automatically entitled to as a part of your conference registration fee. We will modify this announcement as needed. The Christian Gang Specialist Networking Reception is scheduled for Noon, Tuesday, July 24, 2012.

The Corrections/Law Enforcement Network Reception:

This is available only to persons who work in law enforcement/corrections agencies. How do you sign up? Through the Registration Form itself or the Session Attendance Simulation Survey. The survey will have a question about this asking if you want to attend. If you do, you are in and a ticket will be in your registration file folder when you arrive at the conference. If you do not submit the survey, obviously you forfeit the right to attend the reception. No ticket, no entrance to the event.

It is headed up by Robert Mulvaney (Lansing, Michigan) and Fred Moreno (Chicago, Illinois).

At this year's training conference we are sponsoring a "Agency Patch Exchange" within the networking function designed for corrections and law enforcement personnel. If you are interested, please secure some of your agency's patches and bring them with you. We will have a time set aside for this at the Corrections/Law Enforcement Network function. So bring your appetite and your patches and have a great time! As always, there is no extra "charge" for signing up for receptions that may also provide you with food, beverages, etc. It is something you are automatically entitled to as a part of your conference registration fee.

And as is the NGCRC tradition, of course, there are "door prizes" at this reception. The Corrections/Law Enforcement Reception is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 24, 2012.

The Veterans Reception: For Vets Only, by Dr. Todd Negola, NGCRC Staff; Fred Moreno, Investigator, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Chicago, IL and NGCRC staff; and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN, and NGCRC staff.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Investigation Skills.

Abstract

This is a special reception for vets only. It is held after the “Law Enforcement and Corrections” reception. The purpose is to express appreciation to veterans for their service in the defense of freedom. If you are a vet, come and attend, find a warm, friendly environment. Door prizes. Great chances to network and mingle. Learn something new, meet somebody new. Sponsored by the NGCRC staff, you will feel appreciated here.

Bios

These men are are long time staff of the NGCRC, and are well known for their gang expertise. Todd is also a psychologist whose practice is with vets through the VA. Fred is an investigator with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Lee is a vet who still fits into his issued uniform and teaches gang mapping technology, among other topics.

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by Dr. Todd Negola, NGCRC Staff; and Fred Moreno, Investigator, Cook County State’s Attorney's Office, Chicago, IL.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Investigation Skills.

Abstract

Bios

Both Todd and Fred are long time staff of the NGCRC, both are well known for their gang expertise. Todd is also a psychologist whose practice is with vets through the VA. Fred is an investigator with the Cook County State's Attorney's Office.

If you are a VET, just show up for this event. It is held on July 24, 2012: right after the Law Enforement and Corrections Reception.

The Prevention/Intervention/Counseling Network Reception:

This is available to anyone attending the conference. Just sign up for it on your registration form. This is one of the exciting features of the 2010 Conference. The purpose is to allow specialized networking among those persons in schools, private programs, and those in the helping professions who work directly with gang members in a prevention, intervention, or counseling capacity. Come prepared to meet other like-minded persons from a wide variety of occupational backgrounds; come prepared to make some new friends who will last a life time.

The 2012 NGCRC Prevention/Intervention/Counseling Network Reception is open to anyone signed up for the conference, there is a "check list" on the registration form itself: you need to check "yes" that you want to attend the Prevention/Intervention/Counseling Networking Reception. You get one (1) hour of session attendance credit for it. It occurs, however, in the early evening. Stay tuned for further details as they will be announced here at this website. As always, there is no extra "charge" for signing up for receptions that may also provide you with food, beverages, etc. It is something you are automatically entitled to as a part of your conference registration fee. The NGCRC staff hosts for this year's reception are: Dorothy Papachristos and Dr. Charla Waxman. The Prevention/Intervention/Counseling Reception is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Monday, July 23, 2012.

TOURS OF THE HOOD: BRING YOUR CAMERA AND APPETITE (for food and information)

The NGCRC invented the now famous "tour of the hood" several years ago when it was arranging ride-a-longs into "Chicago ganglands", and it has been a popular feature at the NGCRC training conferences as an evening networking and field training tool. There will be several such tours again offered for the 2011 NGCRC training conference. We ask that you pick ONE of the tours only, because space is limited for the tours.

As always, the NGCRC provides free tours to those registered to receive training. The tours are described here at the NGCRC website. You can also get the "Sign up" form for these tours. Because of limited space, we are asking people to sign up for only one tour. We always have a procedure to add people to the tour if there is extra space or cancellations.

Please note that our tours are not designed to either glorify or villify gang life, further we do not charge for this, and this is not available to the general public: this is available only to gang specialists who want to meet others in the field and learn what is being done to prevent gang violence in Chicago.

We expect to be adding additional tours that will be announced at this website shortly, please stand by and monitor this website location for updates.

TOURS OF THE HOOD: BRING YOUR CAMERA AND APPETITE (for food and information)

The NGCRC invented the now famous "tour of the hood" several years ago when it was arranging ride-a-longs into "Chicago ganglands", and it has been a popular feature at the NGCRC training conferences as an evening networking and field training tool. There will be several such tours again offered for the 2012 NGCRC training conference. We ask that you pick ONE of the tours only, because space is limited for the tours.

We expect to be adding additional tours that will be announced at this website shortly, please stand by and monitor this website location for updates.

Tour #1: The Cabrini Green Tour.

This is formally known as Training Session #67, and you have to sign up for it, the information is provided below.

(Session #67) ”Cabrini Green: A Field Training Tour”, by Megan Sherrier, Director of Development, Brothers and Sisters of Love, Catholic Charities, Chicago, Illinois.

Two and a half (2.5) hours

Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Gang Counseling Skills.

Note: scheduled only for Tuesday evening (Aug. 24, 2012), bus departs 5:30pm promptly from front of hotel. Note: You have to be “signed up” for this in advance. You sign up for it at the NGCRC website when you are officially registered. See the “sign up form” at the website, or direct a letter or memo to that effect to the NGCRC. You are officially registered when the NGCRC issues you a “confirmation of registration letter”. The first 40 people who want to go on the bus are the ones who go; others will be put on “standby” notice. Room for 40 only on the bus. Those “winning” a slot for this session will be “posted” at the website on a routine basis to indicate the level of “room remaining” in the tour.

Advice from the NGCRC: this is where you can bring cameras (just be careful: ask the tour guide for WHEN is and is not a good time to be shooting photographs), for some wonderful “shots” of the hood, talk to some people in the hood.

Field Training Tour Description:

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Here is the list of persons who have already signed up for the Cabrini Green tour:

(open)

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Here is the form you need to use to sign up for the Cabrini Green tour. You can do this at the time of initial registration or at any time after you register.

THE CABRINI GREEN (SESSION #67) Tour Sign Up Form:

I am already registered for the 2012 NGCRC Training Conference, Please sign me up for the Cabrini Green Tour

Name: __________________________________________

Address:_________________________________________

City, ST, Zip:_____________________________________

Tel. #:__________________________________________

I understand I can sign up for only one of the field tours.

Mail this form to: NGCRC, 2012 Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990

You can also fax the form: fax to (708) 258-9546

You can also submit this form simultaneously when you send in your Registration Form.

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Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification Course Sign-up List:

(persons signed up for the MHFA Course will be listed here in alphabetical order)

The MHFA Course requires pre-enrollment on the registration form and is limited to a maximum of N = 40 attendees.

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CODE FOR THE LAMINATED MILITARY-STYLE IDENTIFICATION BADGES USED AT THIS CONFERENCE:

Some badges have unique identifiers that will help you. Watch for these.

A RED star on the Identification Badge indicates someone on the NGCRC Security Staff; they also wear special easily identifiable uniforms.

A BLUE star on the Identification Badge indicates someone who is a trainer or presenter. These are certainly people you need to network with.

A PLATINUM star on the Identification Badge indicates a VIP Guest of the NGCRC.

A GREEN star on the Identification Badge indicates someone who works for the NGCRC: these are NGCRC staff, they can HELP YOU; ask them if you have any questions.

A GOLD star on the Identification Badge indicates someone who is receiving an Award this year at the Awards Ceremony.

Some Typical Questions and Answers:

Q: Can I spend more than four (4) hours in my track area?

A: Yes, of course, if your track area, for example is "Gang Crime Investigation Skills" or "Gang Prevention Skills", then you are going to find you have a heck of a lot of choices; you may be able to log in 24 hours directly in your area of concentration (e.g., your track area).

Q: We have 24 hours of training, and if 4 of those hours have to be in the courses specifically approved for the track, then what do I do for the other 20 hours?

A: The other 20 hours are electives: you can spend then anyway you want to, vote with your feet: if you are eligible to attend a session, then attend it. Remember and please note that some sessions are restricted to law enforcement. But most are not restricted. You can attend anything you want to attend.

Q: I am bringing my wife and three school age children, should I ask for family credentials for all of them?

A. Sure, if you want to. The advantage to the family members is that they can get restaurant discounts with their ID cards.

Q: Can the NGCRC guarantee that I will be able to attend everything I want to attend?

A: No, and obviously not for the simple reason that these courses are NOT REPEATED; the courses are offered once and that is it; you have to make HARD CHOICES between 2 or 3 or more different courses, all of which are attractive --- and so, like we said before one person could never attend all of the courses we offer. We have at least six or seven courses going on at once: these are not repeating courses. If you want to attend two sessions that are going on simultaneously, then you would have to decide which you wanted most. Plan B: split your time between two equally attractive courses.

Q: Do you have to be a returning participant with certification to attend this conference for certification?

A: No.

Q: Do you need to have any specific educational qualifications to attend this conference?

A: No (but must be 18 years of age or older at the time you register).

Q: What do I do if I am in that situation of finding my top two courses being offered at the same time?

A: Well it is possible to get credit for partial attendance at a session, you can indicate on your Conference Evaluation Form that you attended the session, but mark on it that you were there for 30 minutes or 1 hour, etc. But normally we do not run courses in the same track up against each other.

Q: What I would like to do is sample from a large number of different areas of expertise after I knock out my minimum of four hours in my track area, but how do I know which classes or courses or sessions "count" towards my track area?

A: Just look at the "Session Credits" line of information inside each session. This provides the types of tracks that the session is geared towards. If your track is listed in the Session Credits, then that course will count towards the minimum of four (4) hours you have to accumulate in your one track area. You can obviously spend a lot more than four (4) hours in some of the tracks, that is up to you.

Q: Is the NGCRC training "Accredited" by any board of higher education?

A: No. The term "accredited" normally applies to college/legal/continuing education credits. In past years the NGCRC has offered college credit and CEU's, from obviously accredited universities. Similarly, the NGCRC training has been approved and accepted by the accrediting body in some states for attorneys or prosecutors (State Suprement Court), but again, this is such a rare interest area, we do not seek it out and we do not offer it as one of the features of our training program. If you know someone who should "accredit" gang training, write to us with your concerns as we feel we should be on "their" board due to our leadership in this field for over a decade. We do not have a "static" program, our program is new and expanded every year: with new material added on a constant basis for over one hundred different courses, this is not a typical "gang training program" (where the typical gang training program has a few, a dozen or so, choices of sessions or courses to take: we have much more material and much more diversity).

Q: Did the NGCRC offer "CEU's" or Continuing Education Units in 2012?

A: Yes, there is a special procedure involved for those registered for Certification only. And we may be doing this for 2012. Some paper work is involved, so if you are interested, you should let us know in writing when you register or before the July 2012 conference.

Q: How do we get CEU's from the 2012 Conference.

A: Each session that is CEU-eligible has a special notation in its session description, which is the statement "CEU's: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU's." If you attend those sessions, you are eligible for CEU's. There is no cost for the CEU's. The CEU certificates would be additional certificates mailed to you after the conference. You would get one for each CEU-eligible session you attended. Even those who are signed up for non-certification or for a "Day Pass" can still get free CEU's for any CEU-eligible course they attend on the day for which they are registered.

THE TRAINING SITE:

The Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel

This hotel is in a classy part of the north Loop. It is situated in the "Gold Coast" area of north Michigan Avenue (the shopping district) by Chicago's Water Tower. The "Water Tower" is Chicago's famous landmark. The Westin Hotel is known as a favorite hotel for sports celebrities when they stay in Chicago. It is easy to get to, conveniently located, well known, and has many amenities to offer. It has scored favorably in the annual evaluations the NGCRC has conducted as well (the Conference Evaluation Form asks attendees to evaluate a lot of things, including the experience with hotel).

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS:

The site where the training is occurring is the Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago hotel.

The Westin Michigan Avenue is located at 909 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611. The Telephone number for the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel is (312) 943-7200. The toll free number for the Central Reservations Call Center is: 1 (888) 627-8385. When making reservations, the "code" for the conference is "NGCRC Gang Conference". They need that "code" to give you the reduced hotel rates.

The cut-off date for getting the rates here is June 17, 2012: Singles $175, Double $200, View $230, Suites $850 and up, Additional persons $25 (for triple and quad occupancy).

Trainees will, as in past NGCRC training conferences, be able to pick up their "goody bags" the evening before training begins. Training begins 8am Monday morning, July 22, 2012. However, you will be able to pick up your registration materials, your Identification Badge, the final schedule, and your "goody bag" the night before: we expect to be able to start giving out registration materials about 3pm on Sunday, 21 July 2012. We will be open to provide this service until about 10:00 p.m. Just go the the NGCRC Operations Center (The Huron Room is the NGCRC Operations Center) to pick up your materials. Signs will be prominently displayed.

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The 2012 NGCRC 15^th International Gang Specialist

Training Conference:

The Preliminary or Advance

Curriculum and Course Offerings

for Gang College 2012

The 2012 NGCRC Curriculum Committee is pleased to offer the following advance and partial listing of courses and sessions for the August 8, 9, 10, 2011 Training Program.

The 2012 NGCRC 15^th International Gang Specialist

Training Conference (July 23-25, 2012):

The Curriculum and Course Offerings

(Note: This is only a small advance listing, the normal NGCRC training program has 100 or more different sessions.)

(Note: The numbering sequence of the sessions below are subject to change, as this is an advance listing.)

(1) “Gang Prostitution: How Law Enforcement and Clinicians Can Work Together”, by Deepa Patel, Therapist, Multicultural Clinical Center, Springfield, VA, and William Woolf, Gang Unit, Fairfax County Police Department, Fairfax, VA.

Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Gang Counseling Techniques; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Female Gangs; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

The prostitution of female children and youth has been an ongoing and increasing area of concern in both the Law Enforcement and Mental Health fields. Gangs have been accustomed to prostituting females as their own financial motive at any cost possible. This kind of sexual abuse from gangs has traumatic effects on the females involved in terms of serious damage to their emotional, mental, physical, and social functioning. This presentation will seek to enlighten counselors, therapists, law enforcement investigators, and prosecutors about how to effectively work together in the best interest of these young female victims of predatory sexual violence from gangs. The collaborative effort between law enforcement and clinicians can help improve community safety, provide much needed support for these victims, and stop the cycle of sexual exploitation.

Bios

Deepa Patel has been working at the Multicultural Clinical Center in Springfield, Virginia since 2006 and is currently the Coordinator of the Sex Offender Program and a home-based gang intervention clinician. She is a dynamic clinician who has developed an expertise in treating non-voluntary clients. This includes being a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, a Certified Gang Specialist and treating conduct disordered or clients with anti-social traits. She has also worked extensively with victims of physical, emotional and sexual abuse. For six year, Ms. Patel has been working with adolescents who are gang-involved. She specializes in female gangs and she has developed a gang group curriculum to use in her Outpatient work. The Girl Gang Group specializes in psycho-education regarding key concepts which empower and strengthen female teens. She has received her certifications from the New York Gang Investigator’s Association, Virginia Gang Investigator’s Association, and the National Gang Crime Research Center.

William Woolf is currently a bilingual Gang Detective with the Fairfax County Police Department and has served ten years on the force. He has been highly sought out due to his in-depth knowledge of gathering gang intelligence throughout the DC Metropolitan Area, analyzing gang crime and migration, educating the public on gang awareness, instructing law enforcement on gang intelligence and gang investigations, and testifying as an expert witness in court. Detective Woolf’s dedication to the Gang Unit has led to being sworn in as a Task Force Officer with the FBI’s National Gang Task Force, participant in the first Central American Law Enforcement Exchange Program, a Task Force Officer to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Gang Unit, and most recently part of the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force. He has assisted the Virginia Attorney General’s Office as well as the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice in the development and implementation of gang legislation.

(2) “The Chicago Police Department’s Gang School Safety Team (GSST)”, by Commander Leo P. Schmitz and Kenneth J. Boudreau, Chicago Police Deparment, Organized Crime Division, Gang Enforcement Unit, Chicago, IL.

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

The class will explore the dynamics associated with Chicago street gangs and the cycle of violence that accompanies gang conflict. Special attention is given to a new intervention model called the Gang School Safety Team (GSST), its processes and successes will be described. This intervention initiative began in March of 2010 utilizing evidence based policing models, intertwined with intelligence led policing. This initiative resulted in the formation of GSST which was designed to coordinate some of the gang intervention efforts between the Chicago Police Department, the Chicago Public Schools, and the Cook County Juvenile Probation Department.

The GSST program is designed to implement a targeted response to a “trigger event” relating to Gang Related Violence, to prevent the retaliatory violence cycle that often occurs. The targeted response relates to the identification of the youth gang involved in the incident by the CPD, CPS and CCJP personnel. Once identified associates of the victim or offending gang are subjected to an intervention process. The intervention team consists of Gang Enforcement Officers, Juvenile Probation Officers and a representative of the CPS and often times the parents of the students involved. Todate, the program has intervened with over 800 youth gang members.

Bios

Kenneth Boudreau is a 30 year law enforcement professional with the last 25 years with the Chicago Police Department. He holds a Master in Public Safety Administration in Public Safety Administration from Calumet College of St. Joseph and was the recipient of the St. Catherine's medal for leadership and academics. Sgt. Boudreau currently serves as the Commanding Officer of the Gang Enforcement Unit- Gang School Safety Team. His previous assignments among others include, Commanding Officer of Asset Forfeiture Unit, Commanding Officer of Administration and Operations for the Gang Enforcement Unit and Gang Investigations Unit, Task Force Agent for the US Drug Enforcement Administration Violent Crimes Task and Homicide Detective. Sgt. Boudreau is a certified Antiterrorism Instructor from the United States John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, recipient of the Bronze Star and an 18 year veteran of the United States Army Reserve. Sgt. Boudreau has received numerous awards to include the DEA Administrators Award.

Leo P. Schmitz has been a law enforcement professional for 25 years and is currently the Commander of the Chicago Police Department’s Gang Enforcement Unit, one of largest gang units in the country. He holds an Administrative Science degree from Southern Illinois University and has attended the Chicago Police Management School. Commander Schmitz is an Illinois Medal of Honor awardee and has received four Medals of Valor. He is a recent recipient of the CPD’s William Powers Award for Leadership. He has worked in Patrol and the Detective Division. He is currently assigned to the CPD Organized Crime Division and has worked as a gang team sergeant and a gang lieutenant. Commander Schmitz has held two other Commander positions, one of which was in Gang Investigations; the other was in Patrol.

(3) “Gang Debriefing: Asking, Listening and Assessing Information”, by Robert Mulvaney, M.A., Gang Specialist, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation & Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

Abstract

This session will be in the form of a workshop to facilitate discussion on the importance of being prepared, asking the right questions, listening skills to understand what is really being said, and understanding the importance of the gang debriefing process.

Bio

Robert Mulvaney is a retired gang/STG specialist. His background of over 32 years of experience includes various positions as a correctional officer, prison counselor and parole officer. He is a member of various research and prevention organizations and has conducted training at various levels of local and state government. He has also written articles for professional organizations as well as the Journal of Gang Research.

(4) “You Have to Leave! Gangs and Licensed Premises”, by Keiron McConnell, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Gang Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Gang Prevention Skills.

Abstract

In this session the audience will be exposed to 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 it work in your community? Attend this session and find out.

Bio

Keiron holds a Bachelor of General Studies Degree from the Open University of British Columbia, a Masters of Science Degree in Policing and Public Order Studies from the University of Leicester, a Diploma in Police Leadership from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Royal Roads University. This academic achievement comes with 22 years of operational experience with a large Criminal Justice Agency. In addition, 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 an adjunct faculty member at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Royal Roads University, and at Douglas College in the Criminology Program. 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”. He is currently a Doctorate Candidate at the London Metropolitan University in London, England.

(5) “Tactical Interviewing: Interviewing the Criminal Mind”, by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., Gang Consultant, NGCRC.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

Traditional interviewing and communication protocols are commonly successful with those who do not frequent criminal circles. However, when dealing with “experienced criminal gangsters,” they are well prepared to elude even the best interviewer/interrogator. Whether you are a mental health professional, an educator, intelligence analyst, or a law enforcement officer, being up-to-date on how to conduct an interview with the most savvy of criminally minded is the most essential tool.

This seminar is intended to explore the concept of Tactical Interviewing (TI). TI is a concept being developed and researched by the National Gang Crime Research Center to better aide those who deal directly with the criminally savvy gangster. Tactical Interviewing involves an exploration in Forensic Psychology, Criminal Profiling, and Lie Detection that are combined to illustrate the taxonomies most commonly seen of a liar. With a better understanding of how the criminal mind works and how they develop their lies, you are better equipped to confront them successfully and more productively.

Bios

Todd D. Negola is a clinical/forensic psychologist who has worked with the National Gang Crime Research Center for over 10 years. He also serves as the Vice President of the Pennsylvania Gang Investigator’s Association. He has been studying and researching gangs and criminal mindedness for almost 20 years. He has worked with and studied juvenile and adult criminal populations, in and out of prison, both at the state and federal levels. He conducts training and consults with federal, state and local law enforcement as well as public and private educational institutions, community programs and mental health personnel. He has published research in the Journal of Gang Research, Addiction and Research, The Journal and co-authored a chapter in the book, Treating the Juvenile Offender. He has multiple television appearances, participated in nationally syndicated and local radio programs and has consulted in gang documentaries. Lastly, he is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Superior Research and Exemplary Scholarship in the Psychology of Gangs and is a Reviewing Editor for the National Gang Crime Research Center’s Journal of Gang Research.

(6) “The Structure of Gang Homicide in Chicago”, by Andrew V. Papachristos, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Mass. Amherst, Amherst, MA..

One (1) Hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Gang Crime Investigation; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Spatio-Temporal Gang Analysis.

Abstract

This session will review gang homicide trends in Chicago and show how patterns of social networks among and between gangs directly contribute to patterns of gang homicide. In short, different relations and networks between and among gangs lead to different patterns of gang homicide, including racial and ethnic differences. Techniques for determining the structure of gang crime, and its implications for investigation and research, will also be discussed.

Bio

Andrew Papachristos is the Director of Field Research of the National Gang Crime Research Center; his doctorate was completed at the Department of Sociology at the University of Chicago. For over 13 years, Andrew has been working with gangs in a variety of capacities including direct street intervention, program development and evaluation, and multiple areas of gang research. A recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award of the National Gang Crime Research Center and the Hans Mattick Award of the Illinois Academy of Criminology, Andrew is the author of A.D., After the Disciples: The Neighborhood Impact of Federal Gang Prosecution and The Vice Lords: A Gang Profile Analysis. His recent work examines the influence of gang network structures on neighborhoods and crime.

(7) “Street Gang School 2012: Chicago’s Street Gang Violence", by Glenn Evans, M.S., Gang Specialist, Chicago, IL.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this workshop is to briefly discuss the socioeconomic factors fueling Chicago street gang violence. Included in this workshop will be brief histories and overviews of Chicago’s major street gangs and community and law enforcement responses to the violence perpetrated by street gangs.

Bio

Glenn Evans has a graduate degree (M.S.) In Criminal Justice and Corrections from Chicago State University. He has presented at a number of previous NGCRC Training Conferences. Glenn is a 25 year veteran of law enforcement with experience in patrol, public housing, violent offenders, narcotics, and street gang crimes. He holds numerous credentials and in-service gang related training.

(8) “Flippers and Co-Defendants”, by Margaret Ogarek, Assistant State’s Attorney, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Chicago, IL.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gangs and Organized Crime.

Abstract

Flippers are those offenders who may have been initially charged with a crime who “flip” and become willing to testify against their co-defendant(s). Attend this session if you want to learn about “how” to induce “flipping”, and learn more about why offenders flip, what their motivations are, how to manage them and to prepare a case for successful prosecution involving testimony against co-defendants. You will also learn the approaches that work and do not work in seeking to get a defendant to flip on his/her co-defendant(s).

Bio

Margaret Ogarek is a thirteen year veteran of the State’s Attorney’s Office in Cook County and is well known for her effective prosecution work involving flippers. She holds the position of Assistant State’s Attorney. Presently, she works in the Special Prosecutions Bureau, Gang Crimes Unit.

(9) “Controlled F.O.R.C.E.^®Mechanical Advantage Subject Control^TM Intro Course”, by Toby Flaget, National Instructor, Controlled F.O.R.C.E. Training Management Systems, Elburn, IL.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

Special Note: Attendance in this course is restricted to Law Enforcement Officers only.

Abstract

The national average for in-service training of hand-to-hand subject control for police and correctional officers is approximately 4-8 hours per year. However, police and correctional officers go “hands-on” with offenders on a daily basis. Controlled F.O.R.C.E. gives officers a system of controlled defense which builds confidence to engage non-compliant subjects in a manner that reduces liability. Since officers are allowed so little time to develop subject control skills, which are a perishable skills set, officers must have access to a system of training that can be practiced in short intervals (such as roll call). The Controlled F.O.R.C.E. “building block” methodology allows for high repetitions in training because each new technique reverts back to previously developed skills, resulting in high retention rates during high-stress situations.

The Controlled F.O.R.C.E. Mechanical Advantage Subject Control Intro Course provides a foundation of skills for controlling a non-compliant subject utilizing body positioning, movement, momentum, and joint manipulation. The system is based on five Mechanical Advantage Control HoldsTM (M.A.C.H.) That use a subject’s resistance against him/herself. The course covers the following categories: Mechanical Advantage Control Holds^TM (M.A.C.H.), M.A.C.H. Takedowns & Handcuff Positioning, and M.A.C.H. Team Arrest Tactics.

The skills developed through this course will improve the officers ability to control the noncompliant operating environment and will enhance the officer’s current knowledge base (including PPCT and Taser). The course provides a solid introduction to the full Controlled F.O.R.C.E. program.

Bio

Mr. Flaget has been a Controlled F.O.R.C.E. National Instructor since 1999. Through his participation in the United States Standards of Training Association, he has been at the forefront of the development of training that prepares for the future challenges of law enforcement. Mr. Flaget has played a key role in the development of “F.O.R.C.E. Active Shooter Course”. Mr. Flaget is a former U.S. Marine and retired Police Officer from Illinois. Toby Flaget is a proud member of the United States National Standards of Training Association (U.S.N.S.T.A.), of which F.O.R.C.E. is an Approved Program.

(10) “Repository for Individuals of Special Concern (RISC): An Overview of RISC Rapid 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.

Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement and corrections ONLY.

Abstract

Biometric identification of suspects within seconds in the field! The Repository for Individuals of Special Concern (RISC) Rapid Search enables law enforcement to quickly assess the level of threat an encountered individual poses and returns a response to the requestor within seconds. RISC supports rapid mobile identification searches using a minimum of two or maximum of ten fingerprint images (flat or rolled) against a population of NCIC files which currently includes:

*** Wanted Persons

*** Sexual Offender Registry Subjects

*** Known or appropriately Suspected Terrorists

*** Other Persons of Special Interest

Bio

Mr. Grant Smith is the newest 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. Twelve of the twenty-two years, he was assigned to a multi-jurisdiction and multi-agency narcotics and violent 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 (SRT) leader. He also served as an investigator on the county’s Child Sexual Abuse Task Force,, Counter Drug Reaction Team, and was a member of the departments Police Honor Guard. Immediately upon retirement from the police department, Mr. Smith served as a member of the forensic team with the Combined Explosive Exploitation Cell (CEXC) in Baghdad, Iraq. The forensic team was part of a coalition of military and federal agencies tasked with assisting the military’s counter Improvised Explosive Device (IED) operations.

As an FBI training instructor, Mr. Smith conducts NCIC training for state and federal agencies. He is also part of the FBI’s New Agent Training Team and also participates in CJIS internal training.

(11) “The Radicalization of U.S. Prison Inmates”, by Michael J. Witkowski, CPP, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Security Administration, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

One (1) Hour

Session Credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Crime Investigation.

Abstract

American prison inmates, at all levels of custody, are potentially susceptible to extremist propaganda from terrorist or hate groups often using their distorted version of religion. The possibility for radicalization of prison inmates poses serious concerns for American law enforcement and society. Extreme religious and political beliefs have an inherent appeal to inmates who can seek to justify their hatred of perceived enemies by demonizing them. They can further channel violence and deviant skill sets to extremist groups and claim righteousness in doing so. Prison, being a place of frequent violence, is a fertile ground for extremist radicalization and recruitment by foreign and domestic terrorists.

Bio

Dr. Michael J. Witkowski is presently an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Security Administration at the University of Detroit Mercy. He is a Certified Protection Professional through the American Society of Industrial Security. Dr. Witkowski serves as an expert witness in matters of civil litigation involving premises liability and security issues nationwide. His interests include gang-generated dysfunction in apartment/public housing communities and the growth of “corporate” styled drug gangs. He is a frequent presenter at a variety of criminal justice/security symposiums and seminars including the Michigan Crime Prevention Association meetings and the Detroit Police 80 Hour Crime Prevention School.

(12) “Street Gangs and Graffiti Crews”, by Kenneth Davis, Detective, Yonkers Police Department, Gang/Narcotics Unit, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Abstract

Participants will examine the similarities/differences between street gangs and graffiti crews’ inner dynamics and the graffiti they generate throughout a municipality.

Bio

Since the 1990's, Ken Davis has attended and presented at several regional, national and international conferences throughout the United States and Canada. Today, he is a certified graffiti and gang specialist. He has written several articles and published a book (TAG 18.3) pertaining to graffiti and its vandalism characteristics among various graffiti and gang participants. As an expert witness, Ken Davis has testified in Supreme Court (Queens, NY/2011) and delivered expert evidence to the Grand Jury (Manhattan, NY/2008). As a detective, he works with the Yonkers Police Department’s Gang/Narco Unit. As Graf-Cop, his electronic-responses can be observed on various graffiti and gang-related online e-groups.

(13) “Gang Prevention and Prosecution Strategies for the Next Twenty Years”, by Carter F. Smith, J.D., Ph.D., Criminal Justice Professor, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.

Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Internet Investigation Skills.

Abstract

This session will include an overview of current gang laws and anti-gang activities, including formal anti-gang teams, sections, and task forces, injunctions, and restrictive ordinances. A sampling of activities that can be considered “gang-related” will be discussed. Prosecution strategies will also be examined and evaluated, with the intent of identifying a blueprint for successful prosecution.

Bio

Carter F. Smith was the team chief for the Army’s first gang and hate crime (Security Threat Groups) investigations team, which had the first investigation involving an extremist on active duty. He has provided training on many gang-related topics to the Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, and Northwest Gang Investigator’s Associations, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Justice.

Carter is an author and assistant professor of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security. Carter is a founding board member of the Tennessee Gang Investigators Association and is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award from the National Gang Crime Research Center. He received a law degree from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale, and a Doctorate of Philosophy from Northcentral University in Prescott Valley, Arizona. Visit http:www.carterfsmith.com and his Blog at http://gangfighters.blogspot.com/ for more information.

(14) “The Mexican Drug Wars: A Study in Narco-Terrorism, Insurgency & Asymmetric Warfare”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr. Ed.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

Two (2) hours

Session Credits: International and Transnational Gang Problems; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gangs and Organized Crime.

Abstract

There has been a full scale drug war raging in Mexico for the past few years. The acts of narco-terrorism caused by the Mexican Drug Trafficking Organizations (DTO’s) have cost over 40,000 lives since 2006 in what has degenerated into an armed insurrection in many parts of Mexico. Political officials, police, and innocent civilians have been assassinated or caught in the crossfire as the Mexican DTO’s battle for drug turf in an increasingly fierce battle to see who will control the drug manufacturing, drug trafficking, and human trafficking trades in Mexico. Alliances have been formed with gangs in the United States. Mexican President Felipe Calderon has committed thousands of troops from the Mexican Army to join the counter-narcotics operations of the Mexican law enforcement forces. The Mexican DTO’s have responded by changing tactics into what amounts to an insurgency using asymmetric warfare to combat the Mexican government forces. This presentation examines the current narco-conflict in Mexico for causes, trends, and possible solutions. Recent incursions into the United States by Mexican DTO’s have increased concerns by law enforcement that this conflict could spill over into the United States.

Bio

Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr. Ed.D. is an Associate 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. He is a member of the American Society of Criminology, the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, and the National Sheriff’s Association.

(15) “How To Start a New Faith-Based Gang Prevention/Intervention Program in Your City: Lessons Learned From The Maleness to Manhood Gang Mentoring Initiative”, by Dr. Barry S. McCrary, Ed.D., Assistant Professor, School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL.

One (1) hour

Note this session will occur only on Monday July 23rd , 2012.

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

Abstract

Since 1991, the Maleness to Manhood Mentoring Initiative has worked toward positively transforming a generation of male youth offenders into models of manhood and responsibility. In recent years, in many of Pittsburgh’s impoverished communities, continuing high levels of unemployment, poverty, unsafe living conditions, school failure and inadequate job training, have created another generation of maladaptive adolescents, whose socioeconomic environment, produced community destabilizing criminality and violence. To this end, the Maleness to Manhood Gang Mentoring Initiative evolved from a program operating within juvenile court, into a Faith-Based initiative in 2002, to remediate, mentor, and transform urban youth into positive, responsible, and productive young men. The Maleness to Manhood Leadership Initiative is a comprehensive youth, family and community-based program that provides intensive mentoring and supportive services for youth to deter negative influences, while guiding them through a positive transformational model from Maleness to Manhood, and addresses positive manhood development, life skills, and career aspirations.

Bio

Dr. McCrary is currently an assistant professor at Western Illinois University (WIU) teaching in the School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration. Prior to WIU he worked for Juvenile Court and in the field of juvenile justice in Pittsburgh, PA, for over twenty years. Dr. McCrary worked as a program supervisor, where he was responsible for counseling, designing, implementing and monitoring a progressive treatment program. Other responsibilities include supervision of the probation officers, probation counselors, and drug and alcohol counselors. His responsibilities also include parent training, life skill training, and research in the area of criminal behavior. He is also the founder of Maleness to Manhood Inc, a non profit, faith based organization. The purpose of this organization is to improve the educational and social developmental needs of inner-city youth by promoting the importance of an education and designing, implementing and developing progressive programming for urban youth, particularly African American males.

(16) “Cartel Wars and Gang Violence”, by Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Security Administration, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

The exponential rise in violent crime associated with Mexican drug cartels/criminal gangs along America’s Southern 2,000 mile border has gone largely unnoticed by the American public. As major Mexican cartels assumed control of lucrative drug corridors into the U.S.A., some peaceful border tourist towns have turned into the scene of gangland slayings, murders of police officers, and assassination of officials. This training segment will introduce attendees to the tactics and history of the border drug wars where the estimated $142 billion dollar drug trafficking business in cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamines has witnessed gang executions soar from approximately 110 in 2001 to some 2,500 in 2007. The tourist trade has almost vanished and violent incursions into the U.S. are being launched by drug gangs and their cohorts, the feared MS-13.

Bio

(17) “Motivational Interviewing”, by Cindy Snider, MEd, LPC, LADC and Amanda M. Crisp, MS, LAC, South Arkansas Youth Services, Inc, Magnolia, AR.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Gang Counseling Techniques; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

Motivational Interviewing is an empirically-supported clinical method which is used in treatment, intervention, and research settings and by people who work in the helping profession, such as therapists, direct-care workers, and paraprofessionals. The principles of motivational interviewing are resisting the righting reflex, understanding your client’s motivation, listening to your client, empowering your client, empathy, eliciting client change talk, collaboration, evocation, and autonomy. Motivational interviewing builds on Carl Rogers theory of person-centered therapy such as reflection, but adds directiveness, motivation building, rolling with resistance, attending change talk, and bringing a particular spirit to the encounter with the client.

Bios

Cindy Snider is the Chief Operating Officer for South Arkansas Youth Services, Inc (SAYS). She graduated from Southern Arkansas University with a master’s in counseling. Cindy is a licensed professional counselor and a licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor. She is also certified master therapist, child custody evaluator, and forensic therapist. Cindy is a certified advanced Girls Circle, Boys Council facilitator, Gang Specialist which she received in Chicago, IL, and most recently a certified Key Supervisor for the Matrix Model which she received from the Matrix Institute on Addictions in Los Angeles, CA. Cindy has been with SAYS for almost 20 years. She climbed her way up from direct-care staff, juvenile probation officer, case manager, mental health coordinator to COO. Cindy currently oversees the day-to-day operations of SAYS which includes juvenile probation and outreach for the 13^th Judicial District, facilities in Mansfield, Dermott, Lewisville, and Magnolia, and behavior health clinics in Magnolia, Camden, El Dorado, and Texarkana, AR.

Amanda Crisp is the Mental Health Coordinator for South Arkansas Youth Services, Inc (SAYS). She graduated from Southern Arkansas University with an undergraduate degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in counseling. Amanda received the Outstanding Performance award in Counseling from Southern Arkansas University in 2007. Amanda is a licensed associate counselor, a certified advanced Girls Circle facilitator, Boys Council facilitator, and most recently a certified Key Supervisor for the Matrix Model which she received from the Matrix Institute on Addictions in Los Angeles, CA. Amanda has been with SAYS for over 7 years, starting out as a case manager at Lewisville Juvenile Treatment Center. Amanda currently oversees the residential case managers at the facilities in Dermott, Lewisville, and Magnolia and assists and coordinates training. Amanda also sees clients on a regular basis at South Arkansas Youth Services, Inc behavior health clinics.

(18) “Mara Salvatrucha 13: A Transnational Threat”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr. Ed.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Advanced Gang Identification; Gang Internet Investigation.

Abstract

Rising from humble beginnings as a street gang formed by Salvadorian immigrrants in the Rampart District of Los Angeles in the 1980's, MS-13 has expanded across the United States and has developed into a transnational gang has has been exported to El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. The MS-13 gang is involved in numerous criminal enterprises including trafficking in drugs, guns and humans. With a penchant for violence, they have been called the “most dangerous gang” in America.

Bio

(19) “Introduction to Gangs”, by Dr. Manuel R. Roman, Jr., Sierra College, Sacramento, CA.

1.5 hours (90 minutes)

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools.

Abstract

Designed for the novice, this course discusses the “basics” of gangs: legal and social definitions of gangs; social, cultural and psychological issues and concepts used in the understanding of gangs; the norms and values found in the world of gangs; issues you will encounter when working with the larger community when responding to gang problems; and some of the elementary aspects of gang identification and gang prevention.

Bio

Dr. Roman worked for the State of California in various capacities for 31 years. During his tenure, he worked as a Correctional Officer, Correctional Program Supervisor, Youth Counselor, Staff Services Analyst, Associate Governmental Program Analyst, Staff Services Manager, Health and Safety Officer, Civil Rights Officer, Affirmative Action Officer, Assistant Principal, High School Principal, and retired in December 2002 as Supervisor of Correctional Education programs at N.A. Chaderjian High School in Stockton, California.

Dr. Roman also has 33 years experience as an adjunct professor of Sociology, Administration of Justice, and Social Sciences at Sierra College in Rocklin, Herald College in Rancho Cordova, San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton and at Sacramento City College. In addition, Dr. Roman has been an adjunct professor in the Teacher Education Credential Program and Administrative Services Credential Program at National University, Stockton and Sacramento, and an adjunct professor of Sociology at Chapman / Brandman University, Modesto for over 12 years.

He has recently co-written a Sociology text titled, Understanding Sociology and Social Problems, 6^th Edition, and written Street Gangs and Correctional Glossary, which is used in several California community colleges and universities. In August, 2010, he received in recognition of his gang research, the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award from the NGCRC. Dr. Roman is considered a gang expert and lectures nationwide.

(20) “Young Boys, Incorporated (Y.B.I.) — Detroit’s First Corporate Drug Gang”, by Dr. Michael J. Witkowski\, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Security Administration, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Prosecution.

Abstract

This segment will explore the growth of Detroit’s most infamous drug gang and its leader Milton “Butch” Jones. Working his way up from a street level hustler, Jones became the kingpin of YBI. His business approach to the sale of heroin and cocaine became the model for rival drug gangs in Detroit and in other American cities. The inner-workings of this drug operation will be explored. An update of Jones’ recent federal indictment will also be detailed.

Bio

(21) “Gangs Invade the Ivory Tower”, by Carter F. Smith, J.D., Ph.D., Criminal Justice Professor, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.

One (1) hour

Abstract

With the growing presence of criminal street gang members in the United States, communities everywhere are experiencing the damaging impact of their criminal behavior. More than one third of the jurisdictions included in the National Youth Gang Survey (NYGS) experienced gang problems in 2007, the highest number since before 2000. A 2009 report by the National Gang Intelligence Center (NGIC) reported the number of gang members in the United States was conservatively estimated at 1,000,000 as of September 2008. Adult gang members represent approximately one of every three gang members, indicating that gangs are evolving into more of an organized crime group as they engage a person’s life past their youth. As these gangs evolve, are they using our nation’s colleges and universities to educate their ranks? This session will examine indicators of problems to come in higher education.

Bio

(22) “How to Identify the Most Violent (Most Likely to be Shooters) Gang Members, With the Goal of Reducing Gang Related Shootings and Homicides”, by Detective Marc Vanck, Chicago Police Department, Area Four Gang Enforcement Section, Chicago, IL.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Office Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Abstract

Being able to identify the most violent gang members with the goal of reducing gang related shootings and homicides are the goal of every law enforcement agency. Knowing who the “violent offenders” are and utilizing “proactive common-sense policing” against these subjects before they commit further acts is half the battle in reducing gang related shootings and homicides. This segment of training will seek to provide a path to which potential major reduction of gang related shootings and homicides can occur within a municipality by focusing resources on these “violent offenders”.

Bio

Det. Marc Vanek is a Gang Detective for the Chicago Police Department’s Gangs Section. He has worked in gang infested areas such as the former Chicago Public Housing Complex of Cabrini Green and currently on the City of Chicago’s Westside. He has been involved in Gang Crimes on many levels from enforcement, gang related shootings and homicide investigations to gang related weapon and narcotic investigations locally and federally. Det. Vanek is a decorated member of the Chicago Police Department with countless awards stemming from his work on gang crimes.

(23) “The Gangster Disciples: The Life Course of a Corporate Street Gang”, by Andrew V. Papachristos, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Mass. Amherst, Amherst, MA..

One (1) Hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s. Session Credits: Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Prosecution; Gangs and Organized Crime; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence. Abstract

This session will trace the history and development of one of the country’s most sophisticated street gangs. The Gangster Disciples. From its humble origins on the South Side of Chicago in the 1960's to a multi-state drug-dealing “corporation” in the 1990's, this session will review the “life course” of the gang, focusing on important “turning points” in the developmental trajectory of the group. In particular, the session will analyze historically significant milestones of the gangs involvement with politics as well as its criminal and deviant aspects. The session presents data from an on-going research interest in the Gds, continuing after the publication of one of the first books about the G.D.’s (A.D., After The Disciples: The Neighborhood Impact of Federal Gang Prosecution, by Andrew V. Papachristos, NGCRC, 2001), and therefore this session welcomes your own G.D. stories, and your own insights in the G.D. phenomenon in the USA.

Bio

Andrew Papachristos is the Director of Field Research of the National Gang Crime Research Center; he completed his doctoral work in the Department of Sociology at the University of Chicago. For over 13 years, Andrew has been working with gangs in a variety of capacities including direct street intervention, program development and evaluation, and multiple areas of gang research. A recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award of the National Gang Crime Research Center and the Hans Mattick Award of the Illinois Academy of Criminology, Andrew is the author of A.D., After the Disciples: The Neighborhood Impact of Federal Gang Prosecution (2001) and The Vice Lords: A Gang Profile Analysis. His recent work examines the influence of gang network structures on neighborhoods and crime.

(24) “The Use of Photography as a Tool in Gang Investigation”, by Sarah A. Meyer, Omaha, Nebraska.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Abstract

Documentation of evidence is highly important to the successful outcome of an investigation. Often, the evidence that proves a case is highly transitory, such as injuries that heal, or graffiti that must be removed. This is also important to the investigation and documentation of gang activity. Having the skills to produce high-quality images in all circumstances is vital to providing ideal documentation. This course will provide a quick “crash course” in the basic concepts of photography, as well as teach more advanced techniques useful to those investigating gang crimes and activities. Examples of the “right” and “wrong” methods of documenting things such as gang tattoos, graffiti, and more will be shown.

Bio

Sarah Meyer is currently employed as a Crime Lab Technician trainee for the Omaha Police Department Crime Lab. Previous employment includes serving as a Correctional Officer with the State of Minnesota Department of Corrections at the Shakopee, MN facility. She is also part-time adjunct faculty at St. Cloud State University, in St. Cloud, MN, where she is the instructor of the Forensic Photography course. She is also owner and operator of Meyer Photographic Services, providing training and consulting services in forensic photography. She is a graduate of the Criminal Justice Master of Science program at SCSU, where she also earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. As part of her undergraduate thesis research, Sarah interned with the Forensic Imaging Bureau of the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner Department, photographing autopsies, death scenes, and evidence, and authored a photography manual for law enforcement. This year marks her eighth consecutive attendance at this gang specialist training conference, the sixth year presenting this class, and the sixth year serving as the official NGCRC conference photographer.

(25) “Introduction to Gangs and Deviant Groups”, by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., Gang Consultant, NGCRC.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Note: This course will be taught only on Monday, July 23rd.

Session Credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Advanced Gang Identification Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

Considering everything from a fraternity to a church group, it is better to be in than out. Animals and human beings alike are social and influenced by group norms, values, and activities. From the outside looking in, mainstream America frequently questions why our youth are drawn to gangs and criminal behavior.

This presentation is designed to develop a fundamental knowledge of the origins, development, and continued prosperity of gangs and deviant subcultures. Attendees will receive a broad overview of the major gang influences in today’s culture and why gangs, despite our best efforts, continue to adapt and evolve while maintaining surprising influences on our youth and adults. This introduction to gangs will serve as a foundation of knowledge upon which additional presentations at the National Gang Crime Research Center will expand.

Bios:

(26) “Street Gangs - Well Defined”, by Kenneth Davis, Detective, Yonkers Police Department, Gang/Narcotics Unit, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Abstract

Developed from its definition, participants will learn how to apply investigative and research measurements to today’s street gangs within their municipalities. A special attention will be given to hybrid gang organizations.

Bio

(27) “FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS): An Overview”, by Grant E. Smith, FBI, CJIS Division, TSEU/NCIC, Clarksburg, WV.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement and corrections ONLY.

Abstract

Welcome to CJIS! This two hour overview is devoted to the information and identification services of the FBI’s CJIS Division. A brief description of the major information and identification services managed by CJIS and shared with the Criminal Justice and Non-Criminal Justice community will be explored. The information services covered include the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), Law Enforcement National Data Exchange (N-DEx), Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR), and Law Enforcement Online (LEO). Identification services covered include the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), Next Generation Identification System (NGI) and the Biometric Center of Excellence (BCOE) Program.

Bio

As an FBI training instructor, Mr. Smith conducts NCIC training for state and federal agencies. He is also part of the FBI’s New Agent Training Team and also participates in CJIS internal training.

(28) “Frauds and Scams”, by Moses Saygbe Jr., Senior Trainer, National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), Arlington, VA.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Outreach and Intervention Services; Gang Counseling Techniques; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools.

Abstract

New scam and fraudulent activity to cheat consumers of their hard earned money are occurring incredibly frequently. Many of these scams and frauds are perpetrated by gangs to help fund their own various illegal activities. Despite the large amount of information available regarding scams, we continue to see a growth in consumer fraud and new scam schemes continue to emerge. This session explains some of the most common types of scams and how gang activity is related to it. This session also details how consumers can be more alert and therefore less vulnerable to becoming victims. Scams to be discussed include: medicare, identity, mortgage, Nigerian, construction.

Bio

Moses Saygbe Jr. Is a senior trainer for the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC). His responsibilities include identifying, planning, and administering training workshops that are driven by the strategic performance needs of the organization. This includes conducting needs assessments and assisting with the design and implementation of the various curricula such as the crime prevention basics, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, gang violence prevention, and campus crime prevention. Mr. Saygbe formulates training outlines and determines instructional methods, utilizing knowledge of specified training needs and effectiveness of such methods as individual training, group instruction, lectures, demonstrations, conferences, meetings, and workshops.

Prior to joining NCPC, Mr. Saygbe provided and promoted crime prevention eduction, training, technical assistance, and professional development to law enforcement, school administrators and teachers, community groups, private citizens, and other crime prevention practitioners to improve the quality of life in Rhode Island communities. Mr. Saygbe has over 22 years of service as director of the Crime Prevention Unit at the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General and juvenile correctional officer at the Rhode Island Juvenile Correctional Institution. He established the Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General’s “Third Eye” Project, an affiliate of the Youth Crime Watch of America, and is a founding member of the Rhode Island Juvenile Officers Association. He is a founding member and chaired the Rhode Island’s Minority Elder Task Force. He has a Master’s degree in Justice Administration from Anna Maria College and a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice from Roger Williams University.

(29) “The Vice Lords: A Gang Profile Analysis”, by Andrew V. Papachristos, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Mass. Amherst, Amherst, MA..

One (1) Hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s. Session Credits: Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Internet Investigation; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

Abstract

The Vice Lords are one of Chicago’s oldest and most violent gangs. Over the past decade the Vice Lords have been reported in more than 20 states and 300 municipalities. This session will review the gang’s history, structure, and proliferation over the past 40-years including the gang’s recent presence on the internet. Of particular interest, this session will review the present state of the gang including its current structure, conflict patterns with other gangs, and organizational capacity.

Bio

Andrew Papachristos is the Director of Field Research of the National Gang Crime Research Center; he completed his doctoral work in the Department of Sociology at the University of Chicago. For over 13 years, Andrew has been working with gangs in a variety of capacities including direct street intervention, program development and evaluation, and multiple areas of gang research. A recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award of the National Gang Crime Research Center and the Hans Mattick Award of the Illinois Academy of Criminology, Andrew is the author of A.D., After the Disciples: The Neighborhood Impact of Federal Gang Prosecution and The Vice Lords: A Gang Profile Analysis. His recent work examines the influence of gang network structures on neighborhoods and crime.

(30) “Gangs, Organized Crime, and Terrorism”, by Dr. Jeffery P. Rush, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN; and Dr. Carter F. Smith, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN..

Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Gang Internet Investigation; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Profile Analysis; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Gangs and Organized Crime.

Abstract

This session will explore the connection and transition between street gangs, organized crime and terrorism, including the implications for the future.

Bios

This is Dr. Jeffery P. Rush. I am in my 22^nd year of college teaching and my fourth here at Austin Peay. My areas of expertise include terrorism/homeland security, gangs, law enforcement, leadership and juvenile justice. A published author in all these areas, I am a graduate of SWOTT and I’m certified as an Instructor with State and Local Terrorism Training (SLATT). I was an active duty street cop for approximately ten years and have been a reserve deputy sheriff since 1988 working in courtroom security for approximately ten years and currently assigned as a patrol deputy sergeant. I served as a juvenile probation officer for five years and for the past 20 years have worked in private security (including retail, concerts, special events and executive protection). A past president of the Southern Criminal Justice Association, I am an author and trainer and (soon to be) former co-editor of The Police Forum. My doctorate is in Public Administration from the 2009 college football national champions the University of Alabama (Rooooolllll Tide), my Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice all were received from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Dr. Carter F. Smith has been involved in military and federal law enforcement for over twenty-two years, and was the team chief for the Army’s first gang and hate crime investigations team. He has provided training on gangs to the Florida, Georgia, Northwest, Oklahoma, and Tennessee Gang Investigators Associations, the Regional Organized Crime Information Center, the National Gang Crime Research Center, the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS), the National Crime Prevention Council, the Southern Criminal Justice Association (SCJA), the Department of Justice, and the U.S. Army. He was a founding (Executive) board member of the Tennessee Gang Investigators Association and is a member of the Speaker’s Bureau for the National Alliance of Gang Investigator Associations. He is a member of the CID Special Agents’ Association, the ACJS, SCJA, and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), a recipient of the CID Command Enlisted Special Agent of the Year award, and a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award of the National Gang Crime Research Center. Dr. Smith received a law degree from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale, and a Doctorate of Philosophy from Northcentral University in Prescott Valley, Arizona.

(31) “Gangs in the Caribbean”, by Dr. Janice Joseph, professor, Criminal Justice Program, Richard Stockton College of 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 Richard Stockton College of 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.

(32) “Gang Mapping: Using Spatial Analysis and Mapping Techniques for Gang Investigation and Research”, by Andrew V. Papachristos, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Mass. Amherst, Amherst, MA..

One (1) Hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Spatio-Temporal Gang Analysis; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

Abstract

Crime mapping has become a widely used method in understanding crime trends and patterns. Given their dynamic and territorial nature, crime mapping offers a potentially powerful tool in understanding gangs. This session will discuss uses of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) mapping software for gang investigation and research. Techniques used for mapping gang conflict, territory, and “set space” will be discussed as well as some of the unique challenges in “gang mapping”. Other types of non-spatial mapping, such as network and conflict maps, will also be discussed.

Bio

Andrew Papachristos is the Director of Field Research of the National Gang Crime Research Center; he completed his doctoral work in the Department of Sociology at the University of Chicago. For over 13 years, Andrew has been working with gangs in a variety of capacities including direct street intervention, program development and evaluation, and multiple areas of gang research. A recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award of the National Gang Crime Research Center and the Hans Mattick Award of the Illinois Academy of Criminology, Andrew is the author of A.D., After the Disciples: The Neighborhood Impact of Federal Gang Prosecution and The Vice Lords: A Gang Profile Analysis. His recent work examines the influence of gang network structures on neighborhoods and crime.

(33) “Burnout in Blue: Exploring Burnout in Law Enforcement and Related Careers”, by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., Gang Consultant, NGCRC.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

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

Abstract

Although rarely discussed and infrequently acknowledged, burnout is a common phenomenon. This course is developed for law enforcement and related audiences to explore the unique and rarely understood stressors inherent in this career arena. The theoretical underpinnings of burnout will be introduced, including exploration into the physiological and psychological processes of this experience. Attendees will then be presented with responses, research, and new tactics that have been developed to help advance resilience and coping skills development. This course is vital for everyone, whether novice or seasoned veteran, because burnout will affect all professionals, either directly or indirectly. Participants will leave with practical knowledge which may add years to their career and longevity.

Bios:

(34) “The Other Border: A Look at Gangs, Guns and Drugs on the Canadian Frontier”, by Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Security Administration, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gangs in the Military; Gangs and Organized Crime; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

Abstract

This session will review an emerging problem along the U.S. border with Canada. In recent years, an increase has been noted in cases involving gangs and drugs, gangs and weapons, and other gang crime in connection with border crossings. In this session you will learn first hand from an expert used in a PBS documentary about the problem. Attend this powerpoint presentation and see portions of the video as well, learn new insights about an often overlooked border protection problem — the border to the north.

Bio

(35) “Opiates: Say Hello To My Old Friend!”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr. Ed.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gangs and Organized Crime.

Abstract

Heroin and opiate usage largely died down with the influx of cocaine, crack, designer drugs and methamphetamines in the 1980's. The old opiates are back with a vengeance! They are cheap and plentiful, coming from a host of new suppliers. New opiate products have joined the lineup such as: Cheese Heroin, Oxycontin, Fentanyl. While traditional opiate trafficking routes are still used, new trafficking routes include Canada and Mexico. This presentation will examine new trends in our old friend, opiates.

Bio

(36) “How to Qualify and Testify as an Expert Witness on Gangs”, Carter F. Smith, J.D., Ph.D., Criminal Justice Professor, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Internet Investigation Skills; Motorcycle Gangs; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

Abstract

In this session, you will learn the mechanics of how to become an expert witness in gang crime investigation cases. You will learn how to provide an expert opinion on matters such as gang identification, the relevance of gang threats, gang motivation, gang rivalries, and gang trends. You will learn a number of important “do’s” and “don’ts” about expertise from the prosecution perspective, and will see some of the strategies of defense. Whether in court or not, there are many ways to strengthen your credibility and expertise – this session may be the first step in that direction.

Bio

(37) “Introduction to Federal and Local Grants for Your Gang Prevention/Intervention Program”, by Dr. Carole Brooks, Special Education District of Lake County, IL; and Jessica Bullock, Provena Health.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Program Grantwriting/Fundraising Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

Abstract

This workshop is an introduction to grantsmanship and preparing proposals to secure funding. Key components of the workshop will include the overall outlook for grant funding, evaluating whether your organization is ready to prepare a federal grant, and the critical components of a grant application. Workshop objectives: Participants will learn (1) essential elements of winning proposals, (2) key steps for proposal planning and conceptualization, and (3) sources for grant opportunities.

Bios

Chicago-area members of the Grant Professionals Association, Dr. Carole Brooks, Special Education District of Lake County, and Jessica Bullock, Proven Health will provide the federal grant introduction course. Jessica Bullock has over 11 years experience in grant writing and management. She is a frequent presenter at the GPA national conferences. Dr. Carole Brooks, grant professional certified, has over 12 years of grant writing and management experience, including safe schools, truancy, and dropout prevention. She has been a Federal peer reviewer.

(38) “Liability Avoidance for Gang Crime”, by Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Security Administration, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

Abstract

This segment will explore the impact of gang activity on the legal field of premises liability. The impact of the built environment (CITED) in public housing settings will be discussed. The migration of gangs to suburban and rural American apartment communities will also be explored. A number of the presenter’s actual case histories will be highlighted to help illustrate the negative premises outcomes of gang behavior in a variety of settings such as housing, fast food restaurants, nightclubs, casinos, and schools. Observations and conclusions will be shared.

Bio

(39) “Police, Gangs and the Community”, by Kenneth Davis, Detective, Yonkers Police Department, Gang/Narcotics Unit, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Abstract

Participants will be introduced to current issues within urban and suburban environments. Special attention is given to the three-way and interactive relationship between police, gangs, and the community they operate in.

Bio

(40) “Reducing Crime by Design”, by Moses Saygbe Jr., Senior Trainer, National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), Arlington, VA.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Outreach and Intervention Services; Gang Counseling Techniques; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools.

Abstract

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is based on the principle that proper design and effective use of buildings and public spaces in neighborhoods can lead to a reduction in the fear and incidence of crime, and an improvement in the quality of life. Participants will learn how to assess conditions in your neighborhood and apply practical access control (doors, fences), surveillance (lighting, windows, landscaping), territorial reinforcement (signs, sidewalks, ordinances), and maintenance (code enforcement, community clean ups) to improve your community, your neighborhood, and/or your home.

This session provides participants with an overview of the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) and how these principles can help deter gang activity. Also to be discussed are resources and strategies that will enable you to create safer and more secure communities. Objectives include: identify ways to use each CPTED principle in your community, discuss how to use CPTED to address gang related crime, learn possible strategies that can be implemented in your community, and review community mobilization efforts tht are occurring today.

Bio

(41) “The Criminal Mind and the Gangster”, by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., Gang Consultant, NGCRC.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

The Criminal Mind; is it biology, sociology, psychology, or choice? This presentation will dive deep into the mind of the criminal and the criminal gang member. The concepts of Sociopathy, Antisocial Personality Disorder, and Psychopathy serve as the framework for this exploration. Candid interviews and videotaped vignettes will illustrate some of the thought processes that have served these individuals in forsaking others to get their individual needs met. Attendees will examine how the criminal mind operates and how such individuals have managed to manipulate even the most innocent of victims. Perhaps even more importantly, law enforcement and mental health professionals will learn ways to protect themselves against con games and strategies utilized by this profile.

Bios:

(42) “Interviewing and Intelligence Gathering Strategies Involving Gang Members”, by Deputy Bobby Farley, Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, Murfreesboro, TN.

Three (3) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Interview and Interrogation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Gang Outreach and Intervention Services; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gangs and Organized Crime; Advanced Gang Identification; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang and Violence Prevention for School Administrators.

Abstract

This course is designed to open up the eyes of law enforcement, correctional, and school personnel to what is going on in gang culture and how to recognize the constant changes in gang culture. It will also assist you in learning how to build rapport with these members to conduct proper interviews and properly identify them as members of a gang. You will also learn different ways to properly document these members when you come into contact with them that can be used in court or school related proceedings involving gang members to strengthen a case as to why these subjects are gang members in your community.

Bio

Deputy Sheriff/Gang Intelligence Officer Bobby Farly of the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office in Murfreesboro, TN is a 13 year law enforcement veteran who has worked in corrections, patrol, undercover narcotics investigations and as a school resource officer interacting with different gang members on different levels and ages over his career. Deputy Farley is a member of the Tennessee Gang Investigators Association and a current gang instructor at his department presenting classes to local law enforcement peers and citizen groups on the gang element in the United States, the State of Tennessee, and Rutherford County, TN. Deputy Farley also works along with the school system in helping to train and better prepare their teachers and faculty on recognizing gang members in their schools.

(43) “The Matrix Model for Teens and Young Adults”, by Cindy Snider, MEd, LPC, LADC and Amanda M. Crisp, MS, LAC, South Arkansas Youth Services, Inc, Magnolia, AR.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Abstract

The Matrix Model for Teens and Young Adults is an evidenced-based intensive outpatient treatment program aimed directly at substance abuse. It is empirically supported to be effective with clients who attend multiple weekly sessions for at least 120 days, 3 visits per week minimum, has family involvement, utilizes 12-step facilitation, urinalysis testing, and possible medication for client’s with dual diagnosis. The Matrix Model for Teens and Youth Adults is proven to be more effective that treatment as usual for substance abusers. The Matrix Model for Teens and Young Adults incorporates behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, contingency management, 12 step facilitation, and a strong family component that educates the client and the family about addiction and the recovery process. The Matrix Model for Teens and Young Adults has been widely utilized throughout the USA and internationally to date. With it’s comprehensive CBT model, easy-to-use manual makes the Matrix Model for Teens and Young Adults an efficient and effective way to deliver treatment by staff members to your clients.

Written and developed by Jeanne L. Obert, MSM, LMFT; Paul Brethren, MA, LMFT; and Michael J. McCann, MA from the Matrix Institute on Addictions.

Bios

(44) “Gangs in Central America”, by Janice Joseph, Ph.D., Criminal Justice Program, Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, Pomona, New Jersey.

One (1) hour

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

(45) “Gangs 2.0: Flashgangs and Flashmobs”, by Dr. Jeffery P. Rush, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN; and Dr. Carter F. Smith, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN..

Two (2) hours

Abstract

As an outgrowth of Arab Spring, flash gangs have been increasing. Are they what’s coming in the future? This session will talk about their growth, and the potential for the future, and what cops and others need to know about this new development in the gang world.

Bios

(46) “Gang Strategies for Patrol Officers”, by Bruce Malkin, Investigator, DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, Wheaton, IL.

Two and ½ Hours (150 minutes)

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

Abstract

Street gangs continue to remain a serious problem that plagues many communities throughout the United States. Many police departments do not have the resources and lack a separate specialized unit to address gang violence so they have to come to rely on patrol supervisors and officers. This presentation is intended to provide the patrol supervisor and officers with strategies for collecting gang intelligence and suppression strategies for controlling gang activity and reducing gang-related crime within their own communities.

Bio

Bruce Malkin is currently an Investigator with the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office. Bruce served 31 years with the West Chicago Police Department; with over 20 years investigating street gang crimes. He formerly supervised the department’s Street Operations Unit whose mission was to develop gang related prevention initiatives, intelligence collection of street gang activity and enforcement activities.

Bruce holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and has his Master’s degree in Social Work. He is currently an instructor for Northeast Multi-Regional Training (NEMERT), lecturing on the “Intricacies of Hispanic Street Gangs”. He also assisted, developed and implemented a training curriculum for “Gang Awareness and Identification” specifically for DuPage County Law Enforcement. Bruce is a part-time faculty member with the College of DuPage and teaches “Gangs in the Criminal Justice System”. Bruce is also an active member of the DuPage County State’s Attorney Office “Task Force on Gangs” and has been qualified as an expert witness on street gangs in the 18^th and 17^th Judicial Circuits of Illinois.

(47) “Faith as a Stress Innoculator”, by Dr. Jeffery P. Rush, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Faith-Based Gang Intervention Programs; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

This session will address how faith is a stress reducer for those involved in high stress professions like criminal justice and dealing with gangs. This session will be of interest to those in the Faith-Based Gang Intervention Track, as well as the Gangs and Mental Health Track. This session will also be valuable to anyone in terms of having a way to deal with a number one killer: stress.

Bio

(48) “Gang Graffiti: An Open Source Intelligence (OSINT)”, by Kenneth Davis, Detective, Yonkers Police Department, Gang/Narcotics Unit, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Abstract

Looking for a practical, hands-on course, come to this one where participants will learn how to identify gang graffiti and examine it for investigative and research purposes.

Bio

(49) “A Threat Analysis of MSTA: Gang, STG, Hate Group, Organized Crime — And More”, by Carter F. Smith, J.D., Ph.D., Criminal Justice Professor, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

Note: This session is restricted to police and other government employees who are official criminal justice personnel.

Abstract

The MSTA has been identified on the top three list of Islamic gangs/STGs operating in the USA. Most police encounter them as a gang, but some of their operations have all the earmarks of organized rime. Most in corrections regard them as a local security threat group, but they have been evolving into a national organization. Most in academia regard them as a cult or deviant spiritual group, but their “MSTA university” sells college courses to their prison inmate members today. Come and learn about the MSTA and how it operates in your jurisdiction.

Bio

(50) “How To Facilitate True Change Within the Gang Mindset”, by Pastor Leory G. Bean, BA, MA, Founder & Director, C.A.R.T.E.L., Crawl, Bermuda.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Prevention Skills; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

Abstract

Our organization’s motto is “it takes a positive passion to defeat a negative passion”. Our general concept is to transform the anti-social/gang “psyche” by changing negative thought patterns into positive ones; for thoughts turn into words, words into actions, and actions form habits that shape one’s character. We also believe that there is a purpose within every individual and our responsibility is to help facilitate them to identify and realize such a purpose. The session will outline specific methods and therapeutic techniques that we have found to be effective in building relationships and fostering a sense of trust with the gang population in Bermuda while at the same token facilitating the change necessary to help them lead more productive lives.

Bio

C.A.R.T.E.L. is an acronym for Challenging and Reclaiming the True Essence of Life and was formally established in Bermuda in 2008 by Pastor Leroy G. Bean. It is designed to raise awareness concerning anti-social and maladapted behavior that empowers gang mentality, as well as identify and provide positive solutions for a more productive life through a variety of services including prevention / education intervention / training and mentoring, mediation / peace treaties, safe houses and relocations.

Pastor Bean has over twenty years experience working with various counselling and residential treatment programs in areas of corrections and substance abuse and twelve years experience working with the gang population. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, a Master’s Degree in counselling and a Master’s Degree in Government with an emphasis on Law & Public Policy. He is also the founder of Transfiguration Safe House, a privately run program for male substance abusers, and the Pastor and Founder of Transfiguration Ministries.

He has been the recipient of several community awards including: The Rollin Nathan Community Service Award (2009), the Caron Bermuda’s Unsung Heroes Award (2009), and the Cablevision’s Community Service Award for outstanding service in the community (2011). He has also been recognized by G.O.E.S.T. (Gang Outreach Education Strategies and Training) in Chino, California for his hard work, dedication and leadership in gang intervention and prevention in Bermuda (2009).

(51) “Street Gangs and Network Analysis”, by Andrew V. Papachristos, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Mass. Amherst, Amherst, MA..

2 Hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Prosecution; Spatio-Temporal Gang Analysis.

Abstract

Network analysis is a powerful tool that can be used to identify different characteristics about groups or individuals. Applied to gangs, it can help describe very specifically the organization of gang problems, the relationships among multiple gangs, or patterns of gang behaviors. Network analysis can be used in building cases, investigations, understanding a problem, or other aspects of gang research. This session will: (1) provide an overview of the techniques and theories of network analysis, (2) discuss ways to analyze network data, (3) review software for network analysis, and (4) give suggestions for using network analysis for gang research and investigations.

Bio

Andrew Papachristos is the Director of Field Research of the National Gang Crime Research Center; he completed his doctoral work in the Department of Sociology at the University of Chicago. For over 13 years, Andrew has been working with gangs in a variety of capacities including direct street intervention, program development and evaluation, and multiple areas of gang research. A recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award of the National Gang Crime Research Center and the Hans Mattick Award of the Illinois Academy of Criminology, Andrew is the author of A.D., After the Disciples: The Neighborhood Impact of Federal Gang Prosecution and The Vice Lords: A Gang Profile Analysis. His recent work examines the influence of gang network structures on neighborhoods and crime.

(52) “Girls and Gangs”, by Moses Saygbe Jr., Senior Trainer, National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), Arlington, VA.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Female Gangs/Female Gang Members; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Outreach and Intervention Services; Gang Counseling Techniques; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools.

Abstract

Gang violence and activity can overpower a neighborhood and implant fear in its members, infringing on citizen’s rights to live a safe, flourishing lifestyle in a protected environment. Many times, gang members congregate in areas such as a community park, claiming that territory as their own. It makes it difficult for children to play in a safe environment. In many neighborhoods people are not able to sit on their own front porch without being harassed by gang members. Now there are gangs cropping up all over the country whose membership includes just girls. There appears to be a growing interest in girls and gangs among gang researchers and those who want to provide prevention and intervention programs for females.

This workshop session will explore issues and challenges that exist between the increase in the number of girls involved with gangs and the public perception of the role of girls in gangs. We will discuss the following topics: how many girls in gangs, why do some girls join gangs, profile of female gang members, what attraction do gangs offer girls, how do girls become gang members, the role of girls in gangs, and some identifiers of girls in gangs.

Bio

(53) “Training for Trainers: The Development of Your Own Gang Presentation”, by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., Gang Consultant, NGCRC.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists. Abstract

Have you ever wished to stand center stage and conduct a gang presentation or training? Friends, colleagues, community agencies, and collaborating agencies will ask for your opinion and expertise about gang and crime-related issues as a result of your attendance at the National Gang Crime Research Center’s 15^th Annual International Gang Conference. This program is aimed to assist you in sharing this knowledge by preparing you to create and deliver your very own gang training.

A central mission of the National Gang Crime Research Center is to facilitate the dissemination of knowledge, research, and awareness to interested parties and to develop collegial networks. This training is designed to help the audience prepare and deliver a responsible and professional message in a meaningful and impacting manner. This presentation will explore the fundamental concepts of subject matter expertise, research outlets, outline development, use of technology to deliver a message, ethical and professional responsibilities, maintaining an audience’s attention, and incorporating feedback into future presentations.

Bios:

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

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Special restriction: Sworn law enforcement and corrections ONLY.

Abstract

This session is ideal for patrol officers, investigators and detectives, gang investigators and corrections officers. The NCIC Gang File is an officer safety and investigative tool offered by NCIC for all levels of law enforcement. It provides near instantaneous information about a suspect’s recorded gang affiliation, personal identifying information, and the officer caution indicators in relation to individual gang members. The NCIC Gang File can convey two categories of information, Gang Group Reference Capability (GRC) and Group Member Capability (GMC). This segment of training will focus on retrieving information from the Gang File with an emphasis on how it can be used for investigative purposes and officer safety.

Bio

As an FBI training instructor, Mr. Smith conducts NCIC training for state and federal agencies. He is also part of the FBI’s New Agent Training Team and also participates in CJIS internal training.

(55) “Gang Intelligence and the Knock and Talk Program”, by Investigator Jeff Hahn, Aurora Police Department, Aurora, IL.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

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

Abstract

Documenting a known, or potential gang contact is used to gather intelligence on a particular gang, person, or persons, as well as other information that is pertinent to a certain individual or gang. Intelligence, and proper documentation is vital to keeping track of gangs, and gang members. This is an overview touching on the importance of proper gang documentation, and discussing how and why gangs have changed the way they operate. Topics that will be discussed include basic and advanced questions to ask during a field stop to determine gang involvement. Over the recent years gang trends have changed greatly. This class will explore current gang trends, and representation and how it has changed from being obvious, to not so obvious. We will also discuss the importance of properly documenting a gang contact for short term, and long-term intelligence gathering, as well as the potential for the intelligence being used for gang expert testimony in court.

To go along with intelligence gathering, and the ongoing youth involvement in gangs, we will further discuss the knock and talk program. The knock and talk program was established as an intervention and prevention tool for law enforcement, targeting at-risk juveniles who are believed to be at the beginning stages of gang involvement. The process involves identifying juveniles who have newly documented street gang contact, and conducting a home visit of the juvenile to inform the parents of the child’s possible gang involvement. The goal is to educate the parents on the dangers of gang involvement, determine the extent of the juveniles gang involvement, gather and document gang intelligence, prevent future gang contacts and to promote a positive police/community relationship.

Bio

Investigator Jeff Hahn started with the LaGrange Illinois Police Department in 1999 and was hired with the Aurora Police Department in 2004. Inv. Hahn was assigned to Aurora’s Special Operations Group (SOG) in November of 2005, and is still assigned to SOG. SOG is responsible for gangs and narcotics in the City of Aurora and focuses on gang suppression, intelligence and prevention. Inv. Hahn has testified as a gang expert witness and has investigated crimes ranging from Murder, to less serious gang related crimes. Inv. Hahn has been a member of the Aurora Police Departments Special Response Team since 2007, and holds an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from the College of DuPage.

(56) “Female Responsive Programming”, by Cindy Snider, MEd, LPC, LADC and Amanda M. Crisp, MS, LAC, South Arkansas Youth Services, Inc, Magnolia, AR.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Abstract

Adolescent girls face numerous challenges during the transition from childhood to adulthood. Threats to adolescent females’ health and well-being include suicide, self-injurious behavior, substance abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, sexual abuse, teen pregnancy, and eating disorders. When girls voice their ideas and options in a safe environment, it strengthens their confidence and self-esteem. It encourages them to express themselves more fully and critically think through their behavior and their choices. Female-responsive services enable girls to experience safe environments and gives them an opportunity to voice their feelings. This programming is specifically designed for them to give them a better chance at success and rehabilitation.

Bios

(57) “Got Ink and Tai Chi Chih?”, by Doris D. Yates, Ph.D., California State University - East Bay, Dept. Of Hospitality, Recreation & Tourism, Hayward, CA.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

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

Abstract

The purpose of the New Start Tattoo Removal program is to remove unwanted tattoos whether gang or not. The program is a collaborative effort between the City of Hayward, St. Rose and Kaiser Hospitals and the Eden Youth and Family Center. Participants range from former gang members, those in rehabilitation shelters, probation/parole, pre-military, employees, and the general public. The sessions are conducted every other month to allow healing between treatments. There are three groups of participants: the under 25 who complete 50 hours of community service, the 25 plus who pay $50.00 per session and those that have been “grandfathered-in” due to length of time in the program and nature, size, and number of tattoos. The removal of unsightly tattoos leads to increased self-esteem and increased employability for the program participants. This is particularly true for those with visible tattoos that show the public (face, neck, arm, hands, etc) such that the very existence of these tattoos might impede employability.

Due to the familiarity of gang related tattoos, where appropriate, there is also some behavior modification that is employed especially with some of the younger participants. The behavior modification might include specific placements for community service hours to make an impact on the more defiant participants and their attitude toward the removal of their tattoos. This session will be a pictorial of the tattoo removal process. The application of numbing cream, the laser treatment, and the application of aloe after treatment. Pictures will include not only gang, but non-gang tattoos alike.

Bio

Doris D. Yates, Ph.D., Professor, with the Department of Hospitality, Recreation and Tourism, at California State University, East Bay, Hayward Campus. Dr. Yates has been with CSUEB for 27years, during that time her interests have included youth at risk, and is certified, (Master Level 7) through the National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) as a Gang Prevention and Intervention Specialist. She is certified through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (female gangs) and has participated in the National G.R.E.A.T. training, July 2006 (GREAT Certified). Dr. Yates developed the writing curriculum for Project SOAR - a step to college program for youth at risk in Oakland, CA, June 2006.

She has completed both the Community and Business Academies sponsored by the Hayward Police Department (November 2006/2008) and Leadership Hayward, sponsored by the Hayward Chamber of Commerce (June 2007). She was a co-presenter at the 18^th Annual Youth at Risk conference, sponsored by Georgia Southern University, Savannah, Georgia (2007) and served as a proposal reviewer for the 2009 conference. Dr. Yates served as a Human Services commissioner, for nine years with the City of Hayward (1998-2007); is a volunteer and active member of the Hayward Chamber of Commerce. She serves as a volunteer with the New Start Tattoo Removal Program (“expert in gang tattoos”) and the Lambda Youth Project (addresses concerns of gay youth). Dr. Yates served as the chair for the Leadership Hayward — a program sponsored by the Hayward Chamber of Commerce, the City of Hayward and Cal State University Hayward campus (Nov 2007-June 2009), and, served as a member of the Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center Board of Directors, (Nov. 2008-2009, & 2010-2011). Visiting Scholar, Michigan State University, College of Ag and Natural Resources (Sept 2008). Dr. Yates conducted roundtable presentations at the 2010 annual meeting of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) held in San Diego, CA, February 2010.

(58) “Gang Prosecution in Cook County, Illinois”, by Mr. Eric Leafblad, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Gang Crimes Unit, Chicago, IL; and Mr. Brian R. Holmes, Deputy Supervisor, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Chicago, IL.

Two (2) hours

Note: This session will occur only at 2 P.M. on Monday, July 23rd, 2012.

Session credits: Gang Prosecution; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Homicide Investigation; Gangs and Organized Crime.

Abstract

Chicago, Cook County, Illinois is home to some of the countries most violent and sophisticated street gangs. Once a gang member is charged with a crime – only half the battle is won. This session will focus on Chicago street gangs and the prosecution of those members by the C.C.S.A.O. Gang Crimes Unit. This unit is nationally recognized as having some of America’s best prosecutors. This session will focus on specific cases and will explain some of the techniques and strategies used by the CCSAO Gang Crimes Unit in their prosecutions of Gang Crimes.

Bios

Mr. Eric Leafblad is a 15 year veteran of the CCSAO. He has been assigned to the Gang Crimes Unit since 2004. He primarily prosecutes gang related homicides, but also handles gun related crimes and cases involving the attempt murder of a police officer. He trains prosecutors, normally for the National College of District Attorney’s Association. Mr. Leafblad is a 1995 graduate of the John Marshall Law School and a 1991 graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Brian R. Holmes is the Deputy Supervisor of the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office Gang Crimes Unit. He is a 16 year veteran of that office and has spent the last 8 years in the office’s elite Gang Crimes Unit. He currently supervises that unit which consists of 15 attorneys and eight support staff dedicated to the prosecution of gang crimes in Cook County, Illinois. He is responsible for investigations into organized street gang operations and activities including: the vertical prosecution of capital murder, murder, narcotics and weapon offenses. He has been appointed Special Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois by the Department of Justice to assist with the prosecutions and investigations of joint Federal and State Weapons and gang offenses. In 2006, Mr. Holmes was named Assistant State’s Attorney of the Year by the Illinois Crime Commission and has received the United States Department of Justice Award for Public Safety in 2005. Mr. Holmes earned his Bachelor of Science in Commerce from DePaul University and received his Juris Doctorate Degree in 1991 from John Marshall Law School, Chicago.

(59) “Gangs and the Military: What’s the Problem? Why is it a Problem? What’s the solution?”, by Carter F. Smith, J.D., Ph.D., Criminal Justice Professor, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.

Four (4) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Domestic Counter Terrorism Skills; Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Hate Group/White Racist Extremist Gangs; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gangs in The Military.

Abstract

Contemporary gangs have been strategically infiltrating military communities around the world since the late 1980's. When gang members are allowed to join the military, they are treated just like other service members – no debriefings, no watch list, and no warnings to local military law enforcement. Is “Don’t Ask / Don’t Tell” the right policy for gangs in the military? How can we ensure gang members are not able to use military urban warfare tactics on our city streets?

This session will provide an overview of the issues associated with the enlistment of past and present gang members in the U.S. Armed Forces and provide recommendations for local, state and federal law enforcement and communities. We will examine the myths and truths associated with dual (gang and military) service, and discuss recommendations for the communities where these individuals go after they are discharged.

Bio

(60) “Gang Member Notification Meetings: Lessons from a “Pulling-Levers” Strategy in Chicago”, by Andrew V. Papachristos, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Mass. Amherst, Amherst, MA..

One (1) Hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling; Gang Prosecution; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

Abstract

Over the past year and a half years, the federal Project Safe Neighborhoods program in Chicago has begun conducting gang member notification forums. Gang members who are recently released from prison attend a meeting at which law enforcement and community organizations speak candidly about enforcement efforts targeting gang members as well as strategies so as not to re-offend. Based loosely on a similar program in Boston, the Chicago program has already reached more than 400 offenders in two police districts. This session will discuss the Project Safe Neighborhoods program in Chicago, its basic design and content, and some preliminary findings of the program’s effectiveness.

Bio

Andrew Papachristos is the Director of Field Research of the National Gang Crime Research Center; he completed his doctorate at the Department of Sociology at the University of Chicago. For over 13 years, Andrew has been working with gangs in a variety of capacities including direct street intervention, program development and evaluation, and multiple areas of gang research. A recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award of the National Gang Crime Research Center and the Hans Mattick Award of the Illinois Academy of Criminology, Andrew is the author of A.D., After the Disciples: The Neighborhood Impact of Federal Gang Prosecution and The Vice Lords: A Gang Profile Analysis. His recent work examines the influence of gang network structures on neighborhoods and crime.

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

One (1) hour

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

(62) “Paint Brushes Up: Graffiti or Art!”, by Doris D. Yates, Ph.D., California State University - East Bay, Dept. Of Hospitality, Recreation & Tourism, Hayward, CA.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

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

Abstract

Presentation will be a pictorial of utility/transformer boxes and murals throughout the city of Hayward as a graffiti abatement program. Graffiti represents 35% of all property vandalism reported to the Police Department. This in mind, the City of Hayward (CA) instituted a mural program to address the graffiti that appears on various city surfaces (residential/commercial). The mural program is a pro-active approach to help eliminate graffiti. The program produces high visibility, rapid improvements while creating enduring artistic representations of Hayward’s rich cultural diversity. This is a collaborative between City Council, local law enforcement, the Youth Commission, Arts Council, educators/artists and the recreation district. Targeted areas include: redevelopment, code correction (i.e., tagged buildings) and capital improvement areas. This presentation will be a pictorial of before, (defaced utility boxes) works in progress, and completed works, general information and comments on this citywide project. Included will be an overview of the “Keep Hayward Clean and Green Committee” and its relationship to this citywide cleanup effort. There will also be information on Access Hayward a program where residents can submit “work orders” to the City’s attention for cleanup, abatement, etc.

Bio

(63) “Kentucky DJJ’s Advanced Gang Identification for Juvenile Intake”, by William A. Campbell, Certified Gang Specialist, Training Academy Coordinator/Lead Instructor, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice – Training Branch, Richmond, KY.

Three (3) hours

Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prevention Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence.

Abstract

This session will be very interactive for participants. This session will focus on juvenile workers observation and interviewing skills. Participants will be able to discern the difference in what Is gang affiliated, i.e., tattoos, drawings/marking, clothing, hand signals/symbols that are commonly associated with street gangs during routine juvenile facility intake for accurate documentation/reporting which will assist in creating a reliable database for local law enforcement agencies.

Bio

William A. Campbell, Certified Gang Specialist, Training Academy Coordinator/Lead Instructor for the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice - Training Branch. He is a native of Chicago, Illinois; has 17 years of experience in working with at-risk adolescents and continued research in various settings; community, acute care, psychiatric, residential, group home & detention. He teaches training modules in Advanced Gang Identification, Security Threat Groups, Gang Counseling Techniques, Dealing With Special Needs Offenders, Crisis Prevention, Building Helping Relationships, Behavior Management for all new hires, Youth Workers, Community Workers, Mental Health Specialist & Counselors throughout the state at Eastern Kentucky University. He has also presented classes for the Kentucky Council on Crime & Delinquency. He is a member of the National Gangs Management Task Force, and he Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

(64) "What You've Always Wanted To Know About The Latin Kings Gang: But Didn't Have an Inside Source For --- Live Gang Interview --- See It ---- And Participate", moderated by Dr. George Knox and Dorothy Papachristos, NGCRC staff, Chicago, IL.

1.5 hours (90 minutes)

Special restriction: You must be an official criminal justice personnel, law enforcement officer, probation/parole officer, corrections/STG, prosecutor, etc, or NGCRC Staff to attend this session.

Session credits: Gang Interview/Interrogation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs.

Abstract

Do you want to get some of the most reliable insight on Chicago gang history and the structure of gangs, learn how gangs really work, get first hand knowledge? You won’t get this kind of course anywhere else. Attend this session to meet a major source for Dr. Knox’s original gang profile of the Latin Kings from the 1990's.

Those selected to attend will have the opportunity to ask questions about the inside workings of gangs — from a live source speaking to you on conditions of anonymity. This is a credible, reliable source of gang intelligence. Learn how gangs may already have targeted your city far from Chicago. Just ask. There will be a sizable amount of time allotted for direct Q & A with this former member of America’s most dangerous gang.

Bios

George Knox is the founder and executive director of the NGCRC. He pioneered the research tradition of gang profile analysis and authored the first full textbook on gangs.

Dorothy Papachristos is the founder of Communities Dare to Care, has worked with the NGCRC for 20 years, and co-chairs the NGCRC Prevention/Intervention/Counseling Reception.

(65) “Gangs and Hi-Tech Communication: How Gang Members Can and Will Communicate Using Tomorrow’s Technology”, Carter F. Smith, J.D., Ph.D., Criminal Justice Professor, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN.

Three (3) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Internet Investigation Skills.

Abstract

The younger generation in our country cannot remember life without cell phones, CD’s or an email address, and many don’t even use CD’s and email anymore. Many gang members are a part of this generation. Do we know how they communicate? As gangs evolve, they take on more of a business model than they had when they started. How does this affect the way we should investigate them? Do we include the right information on our search warrants? Do we know what our crime labs are capable of finding? In this session, we will review the past, examine the present, and look into the future to see how gangs make contact with each other, what they can talk about without us knowing, and why we need to know how to intercept or at least discover what was said after the fact.

Bio

(66) “Doing Gang Research and Writing About It”, by D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff and Associate Professor, Criminal Justice Studies, St. Cloud State University, MN.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Program Grantwriting/Fundraising Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

Abstract

This session reviews what is needed and how to do it in order to share your knowledge of gangs and experiences with other professionals. Just the basics are covered: identifying a problem to study and formulating research questions, developing a straight forward and simple research design, study organization and conduct. The goal is to encourage Gang College students to compose a research article for the NGCRC’s “Journal of Gang Research”, now in its 19^th year as a professional quarterly publication. Also covered will be, article layout and content, formatting and citations. In-class discussion and short writing exercises will be used to stimulate new areas of research and writing.

Bio

D. Lee Gilbertson has been teaching research methods since August 2000 at Saint Cloud State University. He has consulted with law enforcement in the areas of forensic victimology, crime analysis, and racial profiling. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995, and has presented at numerous national and international conferences. Lee is a published author and has participated in 14 of the NGCRC Gang Colleges, is a two-time recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award, is a reviewing editor of the Journal of Gang Research, and is a member of the NGCRC staff. His background includes a doctorate in sociology, masters in criminal justice, and 16 years of exemplary military service (infantry and signals intelligence).

(67) ”Cabrini Green: A Field Training Tour”, by Megan Sherrier, Director of Development, Brothers and Sisters of Love, Catholic Charities, Chicago, Illinois.

Two and a half (2.5) hours

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

Note: scheduled only for Tuesday evening (Aug, 9, 2011), bus departs 5:30pm promptly from front of hotel. Note: You have to be “signed up” for this in advance. You sign up for it at the NGCRC website when you are officially registered. See the “sign up form” at the website, or direct a letter or memo to that effect to the NGCRC. You are officially registered when the NGCRC issues you a “confirmation of registration letter”. The first 40 people who want to go on the bus are the ones who go; others will be put on “standby” notice. Room for 40 only on the bus. Those “winning” a slot for this session will be “posted” at the website on a routine basis to indicate the level of “room remaining” in the tour.

Field Training Tour Description:

Welcome to one of the most famous gang “sites” in the world — called by some a “killing field” of public housing, much attention has been given to this location over the years in Chicago. This location has had more than its share of gang violence over the years. You will be in the company of someone who truly has “street credentials”, someone well-known at the street and community level – your tour guide.

(68) “Players, Social Bandits, and Would be Racial Revolutionaries: Examining Hip-Hop, Narcocorrido and neo-Nazi Hate Rock”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr. Ed.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gang Counseling Techniques; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs; Advanced Gang Identification; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and the Mass Media; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; and Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators.

Abstract

We often sing about what we do. From the youth gang and drug dealing culture that has developed in American criminal society three distinct forms of musical expression have come forth from different criminal groups. Seeing themselves as players, African-American youth gang members have adopted Hip-Hop or Rap as their musical style of expression. Performers such as Snoop Dog (Rolling 20's Crips) or Dj Quick (Tree Top Piru Bloods) were former or current gang members. The social bandit tradition is strong among the Hispanics, thus Narcocorrido music has groups singing the praises of Pablo Escobar and the hazards of drug dealing. The neo-Nazis whoa re awaiting the much wished for “White Revolution” have largely adopted a death metal or hate rock theme that screams a call for white revolution and racial purity. The music of these three very different groups has several similarities: violence, angst, dissatisfaction with the “Normal Society” and a view that the end justifies the means. These styles of music fuel the passions of those who fight the street wars that occur in the cities of America and elsewhere.

Bio

(69) “Sacred Transformations: Free Tattoo, Scar, Burn and Tattoo Transformations”, by Eric Dean Spruth, MA, ATR, Sacred Transformations, Chicago, IL.

Three (3) hours

Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention and Intervention Services.

Abstract

Participants will learn more about the healing and transformation process of tattooing. Our program is dedicated to helping people who are tattooed, scarred, branded and/or burnt from negative experiences to transform those marks into art pieces that celebrate one’s individuality. The experience empowers the individual in their own terms who they are inside. It is our goal for those marks to be converted into a source of daily inspiration to maintain sobriety, to be committed to the welfare and betterment of children, family, community and self. Our organization believes that transformative tattoos will provide a historically qualified link to spirituality and culture and gives the individual a new rite of passage.

Bio

Eric Dean Spruth is a trained artist, graduating from the school of the Art Institute of Chicago with an undergraduate degree in fine art with a minor in psychology and philosophy, and a Master’s degree in art therapy. He has served as a professor at the Adler School of Professional Psychology Art Therapy program. An expressive art therapist with the Cook County Bureau of Health & Mental Health Services/Cermak Health at the Cook County Jail. A victim advocate at the Cook County’s Victim Witness Program. Spruth has a private practice in Chicago as well as the founder of Sacred Transformations. His efforts have been featured and recognized by many forms of media.

(70) “Critical Incident Management and the First Responder”, by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., Gang Consultant, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Homicide Investigation Skills; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

11:21 A.M. April 20, 1999. Two teenagers, Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris, open fire at Columbine High School. If you were the first person to be faced with this crisis, what would you do? With all of the historical and current crises facing the world, can you honestly say that you feel prepared to be the first responder?

This presentation is targeted at anyone interested in learning what to do in the initial phase of a crisis. Why is this important? In 95% of all emergencies, bystanders or victims themselves are the first to arrive at the scene of a crisis. Therefore, it is essential that the responder be knowledgeable about common questions, dilemmas, and demands that may be asked of him or her. This knowledge, along with specific techniques for successful crisis negotiation and an awareness of exactly what should be avoided in a crisis, can save lives. These concepts and more will be addressed in this interactive and practical presentation. The overarching goal of this seminar is to teach any individual how to be a successful first responder to a crisis and ultimately help to prevent tragedies such as Columbine, which resulted tragically in the death of twelve students and one teacher before the gunmen took their own lives.

Bios

(71) “Successful Gang Offender Supervision Program: The Noble/NEC Partnership - A National Approach”, by Malik Aziz, Chairman, NEC, Philadelphia, PA; and Joseph A. McMillan, Asst. Inspector General for Investigations, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Rockville, MD.

Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Outreach and Intervention Skills.

Abstract

In February 2009, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) joined the National Exhoodus Council (NEC) to present a national campaign that combines public policy, legislation and appropriations to foster job creation, infrastructure building, education, family reunification, and reducing urban violence. NEC is a coalition of more than 25 leading community-based offender re-entry, anti-crime and anti-violence organizations. NOBLE has over 30 years experience providing training and technical assistance. The gang supervision program involves the collaboration with the community to troubleshoot everyday situations and resolve conflicts peacefully. One of the unique aspects of this program is that the collaboration involves input from policy makers, the community, and law enforcement to develop positive relationships and long-term investment towards the decrease in juvenile detention/incarceration and recidivism rates.

Bios

Malik Aziz is a political and community activist, served in the administrations of the past three mayors of Philadelphia: Wilson Goode, Sr., Edward Rendell, and John Street, and as Assistant Director of the Mayor’s Office for the Reintegration of Ex-Offenders (MORE) under the current mayor Michial Nutter. He is a certified Conflict Resolution and Peer Mediation trainer. He has received many awards, but his most important accomplishment is being proudly married to Antoinette Jackson-Aziz and the father to their six children: Gregory, Antoine, Marvin, Nyreshia, Quimalik and Ylemia Aziz.

Special Agent Joseph A. McMillan was born in Philadelphia and attended Central High School. He attended the USAF Office of Special Investigations Academy and was credentialed as a Special Agent in 1982. He received his Master of Arts from George Washington University in May 1986. He was the 2008-2009 National President for NOBLE. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Strategic Intelligence from the National Defense Intelligence College. SA McMillan is also a graduate of the Federal Executive Institute, and the Air War College non-resident program.

(72) “Soverign Citizens”, by NGCRC Staff, Chicago, IL.

1.5 hours (90 minutes)

Session Credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs.

Note: Attendance at this session is restricted to Law Enforcement, Official Criminal Justice Personnel, NGCRC staff.

Abstract

Now estimated at 300,000 people by the Southern Poverty Law Center, sovereigns use a number of generally nonsensical and often illegal schemes to avoid paying taxes, eliminate debts, and attempt to extract money from the U.S. government. Many of its leaders specialize in the so-called “redemption” scam allowing participants to access huge sums of cash the government is supposed to keep from their birth in their names. These ideas (sometimes called common-law citizens or redemptionists) have roots in the tax protest movement and have an extreme right-wing and sometimes racist outlook that pose a threat to American law enforcement. Recently they have been charged with illegally taking over foreclosed homes. This segment will seek to enlighten police and law enforcement personnel as to the growing threat of violence posed by this movement.

Bios

Both presenters hold doctorates and are longstanding published professionals in the field of criminal justice. You will gain full information only by attending the actual session.

(73) “Biker War? Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs and What’s Happening Now”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr. Ed.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Motorcycle Gangs; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gangs and Organized Crime.

Abstract

There is a power struggle happening among the American outlaw motorcycle gangs. According to an estimate by the International Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Investigator’s Association, 375 outlaw motorcycle gangs are currently operating in the United States. This presentation will provide an overview of OMG’s and look at biker culture. It will attempt to provide answers to questions like: “What is the 100 mile rule?”, “What happens at a biker funeral?”, “What are the changing tactics and alliances among American OMG’s?”.

Bio

Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr., Ed.D. is an Associate 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. He is a member of the American Society of Criminology, the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, and the National Sheriff’s Association.

(74) “GI/GIAMS: Part 2”, by Kenneth Davis, Detective, Yonkers Police Department, Gang/Narcotics Unit, Yonkers, NY.

90 Minutes (1.5 hours)

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Abstract

Learn how to become an expert witness pertaining to prolific graffiti vandals. In fact, the majority of graffiti investigators rarely make it to the court because of good interviewing and interrogation practices. This course will prepare you for those rare occassions.

Bio

(75) “How to Gang Proof Your Malls”, by Dr. Jeffery P. Rush, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN; and Debbie Rush, Graduate Student, Criminal Justice, American Military University.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Profile Analysis.

Abstract

The focus of this session is “how to gang proof your shopping malls” and related commercial shopping districts that could become hot spots for gang activity. This session will show that gangs in malls are becoming an increasing problem. After a gang shooting at a mall in Indianapolis, the mall basically became a “ghost mall”, no one shops there anymore because it has come to fill a cognitive map of fear — fear of gang crime and violence. This session will address some of the problems and some solutions thereto, for gangsters in your malls.

Bios

Debbie Rush is currently a graduate student at American Military University in Criminal Justice. She has worked in retail security for more than 15 years as security and operations director for both conventional and strip malls.

(76) “The Christian Gang Specialist Reception”, by Br. Jim Fogarty, M.Div., Chicago, IL and NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Note: this is scheduled for Tuesday, July 24, 2012, noon.

Session credits: Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Prevention Skills; Dealing With Gang Members in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; 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, July 24, 2012. If you answered "YES" to the question on your registration form "I am interested in networking with Christian gang specialists while at this conference", then your I.D. Badge is already coded with a special ticket code that allows you into this reception. If you answered "NO" or left the question blank, it was assumed you are not interested. If you would like to change your mind, then you must do so prior to showing up at the conference: you can do it simply by mailing the NGCRC Conference Processing Center a letter or memo to the effect “if I was listed as NO or BLANK for the Christian Gang Specialist Reception, I wish to modify my registration data to reflect the new code of YES for attending this gang specialist networking event”. As we need to plan on how many are attending, no "walk ins" will be allowed. And as is the NGCRC tradition, of course, there are "door prizes" at this reception. Come prepared for some amazing testimony. This is open to anyone for any certification or non-certification registration, you need not be signed up for the Faith Based Programs certification option to attend this session, but you do need to sign up for it in advance. We have been doing the Christian Reception since 1997. It is part of the strong positive tradition of the NGCRC to provide unique training and networking opportunities to those who attend the NGCRC training conference.

Bio

The chair of the 2012 NGCRC Christian Gang Specialist Reception is Dr. George Knox and other NGCRC staff. One of the co-chairs is Br. Jim Fogarty, M.Div., Chicago, IL. The format this year will likely be a luncheon format with guest speakers (we are still working out specific arrangements: so stay tuned to this website for further details and developments).

(77) “An Introduction to Understanding Prison Gangs”, by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., Gang Consultant, NGCRC.

Two (2) hours

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Abstract

It has been stated over and over again that those who control the prisons, control the streets. Prison gangs remain a serious threat to personal safety through their intricate work while incarcerated as well as their connections and counterparts on the streets. This presentation will provide a visual tour of prison/street gang tattoos, group photographs, and confiscated material, providing key intelligence to law enforcement, educators, researchers, and correctional staff. Also included is a basic introduction to prison gang identification and gang activity in prison. A brief investigation into the criminal personality and profile that underlies gang existence and activities will be included. By focusing on the major prison gangs influencing our correctional institutions today, it is intended that the participant will have a fundamental understanding of prison gangs, their activities in prison, and reasons for their existence.

Bios:

(78) “Gunrunning 101: A How To Guide About What to Look For”, by Dr. Gregg W. Etter, Sr. Ed.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO; and Jeffrey M. Johnson, Instructor of Legal Studies, University of Mississippi.

One (1) hour

Session credits: International and Transnational Gang Problems; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Prosecution; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gangs and Organized Crime.

Abstract

The negative outcome of Operation Fast and Furious brought the problems of gunrunning and gunrunning investigations into the attention of the American public. Law enforcement has been aware of this problem for years and the BATF works diligently to control the arms traffic in the United States. This course attempts to answer some basic questions about the illegal traffic in firearms into and from the United States. How are the illegal firearms acquired? Where are these illegal firearms acquired? Where are these illegal firearms sold? What is a strawman purchase? How do these transactions effect areas with strict gun control laws? What international problem does this traffic cause in areas such as Canada and Mexico?

Bios

Mr. Jeffrey M. Johnson, MCJ is an Instructor of Legal Studies at the University of Mississippi. He served with the Kansas Highway Patrol from 1996 to 2000. He is rated as a gang specialist by the National Gang Crime Research Center. Mr. Johnson earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Washburn University. He earned a graduate certificate in Homeland Security from Texas A&M University. He is currently a Doctoral Student at Delta State University. He is a member of the American Correctional Association and the Southern Criminal Justice Association.

(79) “GI/GIAMS: Part 1”, by Kenneth Davis, Detective, Yonkers Police Department, Gang/Narcotics Unit, Yonkers, NY.

90 Minutes (1.5 hours)

CEU’s: Persons attending this session are allowed to receive CEU’s.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis.

Abstract

Under this concept (Graffiti Identity/Graffiti Identification and Analysis Methods), the basic graffiti tag is redefined as the graffiti identity and three major parts. Participants will be introduced to the subcultural principles that govern the graffiti identity’s creation, construction, and circ