The 2026 NGCRC 29th

GANG SPECIALIST TRAINING CONFERENCE:

The Preliminary or Advance Curriculum and Detailed Course Offerings for August 3 - August 5, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

Please note that the 2026 program is just now getting started and the curriculum is still adding courses. This is, therefore, an advance listing of the courses already approved for inclusion in the Official 2026 Curriculum. We expect to be adding more sessions to this curriculum on a regular basis.

The full conference information is available at https://ngcrc.com/conference.html

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

Last updated: Sept. 16, 2025

This listing includes Sessions #1 thru #27

(1) “Graffiti Identity 1 - Understanding the Game”, by Retired Detective Ken Davis, Yonkers Police Department, Yonkers, NY.

Two (2) hours

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

Abstract

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

Bio

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

(2) “What We Really Need for Gang Investigation Skills in the Next Decade”, by Dr. Charles M. Russo, Royse City, TX.

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

The landscape of gang investigations is rapidly evolving, demanding a fundamental shift from traditional methods to a more analytical, forward-looking approach. This session will equip attendees with the essential critical thinking frameworks required to meet the challenges of the next decade. Participants will learn how to apply structured analytical techniques to complex investigations, mitigate cognitive biases in threat assessments, and leverage disparate data sources for predictive analysis. The focus will be on moving beyond reactive enforcement to proactive intelligence-led operations. Attendees will leave with practical, evidence-based skills to enhance their investigative process, improve decision-making under pressure, and develop more effective strategies for dismantling criminal enterprises. This is not just about new technology; it is about a new way of thinkin.

Bio

Dr. Charles Russo is a leading expert in the application of critical thinking to public safety, intelligence, and national security challenges. He has dedicated his career to developing and implementing training programs that enhance the analytical and decision-making capabilities of professionals in high-stakes environments. Dr. Russo has advised numerous law enforcement and government agencies on improving their intelligence processes and investigative methodologies. His research focuses on cognitive bias mitigation, structured analytical techniques, and the development of strategic foresight in complex security situations. He holds a Ph.D. and is a respected author and speaker, known for translating complex theories into practical, actionable strategies for front-line operators and strategic leaders alike.

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

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

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

Bio

education.

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

One (1) hour

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

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

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

Abstract

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

Bios

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

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

(5) “Graffiti Identity 3 - OTWs Productions and Street Gang Memorials”, by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

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

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

Abstract

Participants will learn the purpose of OTWs productions and how to recognize street gang memorials

Bio

(6) “New Trends on Asian Gangs and Transnational Organized Crime Groups: Part 1”, by Dr. John Z. Wang, Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA.

Four (4) hours

Note: This is part 1 of a 2 part series. Part 1 is taught Tuesday morning, Aug. 4^th. Part 2 is taught Wednesday morning, Aug. 5^th.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Profile Analysis; International and Transnational Gang Problems via case videos, evidence examinations, and M.O. analyses in four modules: (1) New perspectives and typologies on structural changes, new communication patterns, and inter-/intra-racial networking, (2) Shooting related investigation on quick determination of fired casing-types of weapons, certain alert fired casings, and fired bullets-types of weapons, (3) New smuggling methods on gun switches, 3D printed guns, and alien routes, and (4) New drug smuggling methods on fentanyl (precursors vs analogues), Nitazene (coated vs. laced pills), liquid methamphetamine, Kratom, and marijuana growing (farm vs. pot)..

Abstract

Bio

Dr. John Z. Wang is a world renowned criminological expert on Asian gangs. He is a full professor of criminal justice and forensic studies in the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management at California State University - Long Beach. He joined the first Asian Gang Survey Project in 1991 for his doctoral dissertation and has been providing training seminars at previous NGCRC conferences. He served as an adjunct instructor at Houston Police Academy from 1995 to 1999 and has been serving an adjunct instructor for California Law Enforcement Command College (CA POST Certified) since 2009. Also, he is a fellow of American Academy of Forensic Sciences since 2018. His expertise includes Asian gangs, Asian transnational organized crimes, high tech crimes, and forensic examinations of gang crimes related evidence with many publications.

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

One (1) hour

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

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Profile Analysis; Hate Groups / White Racist Extremist Gangs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: special housing for informants; racial conflicts and race relations; contraband cell phones; overcrowding and stress and trauma on the job; suicide problems by inmates and staff; the “VID” factor and PTSD; exposure to trauma and stress on the job; increased radicalization of inmates; religious extremism; gang/STG abuse of religious worship; review of the largest white racist extremist gangs; Islamic gangs and gangs that seek to control religious services; the concept of gang density and its three measurement components; gang recruitment behind bars; inmate complaints about gang recruitment; extent of recruitment in prisons today.

Bio

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

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

One (1) hour

Notice: This course is restricted to Law Enforcement Only.

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

Abstract

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

Bio

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

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: measuring the three aspects of gang density; how gang importation is added with joining inside; extent to which prisons report white inmates have a separate gang; names of the largest gangs in American prisons; the prevalence of reports of military trained gang members; names of the largest motorcycle gangs behind bars; reports of gang leaders influencing politicians; pressure to play down the gang problem; political corruption over time: 1994 to present; whether gangs that exist inside operate by the same name outside of prison; comparing street gangs and prison gangs; the extent to which gangs/STGs cause management problems; the problem of housing all members of one gang together.

Bio

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

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

One (1) hour

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

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

Abstract

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

Bio

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

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: gang/STG member control of inmate economic rackets; cash seized from gang inmates; stronger gang affiliation after serving time; STG’s smuggle in contraband cell phones, make more improvised weapons; extent of formal gang training for prison staff today; threats and assaults against staff from prison gang members; the 2015 New York correctional union protest billboard portends the future — more protest billboards; whether inmate classification systems take gang membership into account; gangs extort money from inmate workers; whether Islamic inmates have separate gangs; are gang members more lawsuit oriented than non-gang members; the three types of prison riots; best estimate for latent terrorists; who wants tougher laws and zero-tolerance; the scarcity of gang renouncement programs; could improving race relations help reduce gang violence in prison; what support exists for no human contact status; large support exists for telephone and mail monitoring.

Bio

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

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

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

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

Bio

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

One (1) hour

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

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

Abstract

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

Bios

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

One (1) hour

Special Note: 5pm-6pm in the Millenium Park Room, Tuesday, August 4, 2026. You need a ticket for the event, you get the ticket by signing up for it on your registration form. The ticket will be waiting for you in your registration packet you receive when you pick up your conference ID credentials.

Session credits: Corrections/STG Gang Intelligence; Dealing with Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Prosecution.

Abstract

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

Bios

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

(15) “The Graffiti Identity 4 - Case Studies on Two Yonkers’ Prolific Graffiti Writers: One With International Connection, Another With Multi-Crew/Street Gang Membership Privileges”, by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

Attend this session to get insight on how some graffiti writers operate in complex and sophisticated ways. The presenter provides insight from two different profile analyses from his experience as a gang and graffiti investigator.

Bio

(16) “The Christian Gang Specialist Reception”, by Martha Wall-Whitfield, Ph.D., Principal, Arkansas Juvenile Assessment and Treatment Center, Bryant, AR; and George Knox, NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Note: this is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, 2026, noon. It is a ticketed event, you need to sign up for it in advance on your registration form.

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

Abstract

This is available only to persons registered for the conference. This will be held during the “lunch hour” (12pm - 1pm) on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026. If you answered "YES" to the question on your registration form "I am interested in networking with Christian gang specialists while at this conference", then you received a special TICKET inside your registration materials. If you answered "NO" or left the question blank, it was assumed you are not interested. If you would like to change your mind, then you must do so prior to showing up at the conference: you can do it simply by mailing the NGCRC Conference Processing Center a letter or memo to the effect “if I was listed as NO or BLANK for the Christian Gang Specialist Reception, I wish to modify my registration data to reflect the new code of YES for attending this gang specialist networking event”. As we need to plan on how many are attending, no "walk ins" will be allowed. And as is the NGCRC tradition, of course, there are "door prizes" at this reception. Come prepared for some amazing testimony. This is open to anyone for any certification or non-certification registration, you need not be signed up for the Faith Based Programs certification option to attend this session. The NGCRC has been doing the Christian Reception since 1997. It is part of the strong positive tradition of the NGCRC to provide unique training and networking opportunities to those who attend the NGCRC training conference. The hosts are NGCRC staff. The format this year will be a sandwich luncheon format with the opportunity to give testimony, door prizes, etc.

Bios

Dr. Martha Wall-Whitfield is an educator from Little Rock, Arkansas where she is currently the Founder and Principal of Legacy Christian Academy, a private Christian school for at-risk youth and kids from trauma. She was formerly the District Principal for all juvenile correctional facilities in the state of Arkansas and also served as Principal at the state’s largest juvenile facility for incarcerated youth for seven years. She has taught for over 16 years at the University level as an Assistant Professor for Averett University and as an Adjunct for Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Arkansas Little Rock, and Arkansas State University. Dr. Whitfield is a mom of five and a Mimi to five. She is active in both her church and the community as a foster and adoptive parent and foster parent trainer for the state.

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

(17) “New Trends on Asian Gangs and Transnational Organized Crime Groups: Part 2”, by Dr. John Z. Wang, Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA.

Four (4) hours

Note: This is part 2 of a 2 part series. Part 1 is taught Tuesday morning, Aug. 5^th. Part 2 is taught Wednesday morning, Aug. 6^th.

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Profile Analysis; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Asian Gangs and High Tech Gang Crimes.

Abstract

This four-hour presentation (Part B) will provides the latest trends on Asian gangs and transnational organized crime groups via case videos, evidence examinations, and M.O. analyses in four modules: (5) New underground prostitution and money laundering methods on undercover tips, covert communication, super-note counterfeiting, and special transfer channels, (6) High tech crimes on burglaries, home invasions, gift cards, skimming, and Q.R. scams, (7) AI crimes on virtual kidnapping, Pig-Butchers, and encrypted currency investment, and (8) Law enforcement countermeasures on townhall meetings, Intel briefing, civic associations and social taboos.

Bio

(18) “Where’s Your Library Cad, Reviving an Old Search Tool”, by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

Participants will be introduced to a traditional gang internet investigation tool - - - using basic search techniques and alerts. Adding this kind of basic search as a routinized daily activity will increase the effectiveness of your ability to keep a handle on the gang problem.

Bio

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

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: 3^rd component of gang density; few prisons have programs to help gang/STG inmates quit the gang; small percentage who quit gang life while in prison means basically the first two components of gang density have the greatest weight; gang density adjustment to 63.8% in U.S. prisons is the only estimate with the rigorous three point or triangulated measurement approach; review of the use of 20 strategies to control gangs/STGs; the issue of bus therapy; overwhelming majority of prisons want Congress to pass legislation enabling prisons to jam cell phone signals; new development — about 1/3 of U.S. prisons now report drones have been used to smuggle in contraband (cell phones, drugs); also new — 37.9% of prisons now provide inmates with internet access or email; almost all recognize internet access for inmates creates a new type of danger; few prisons (13.8%) allow prisoner to prisoner email; low grade for federal leadership in responding to the gang problem in the last year; 89.7% expect the gang problem in corrections to increase in the next few years; 79.3% expect the problem of inmate violence from gang members to increase; three-fourths expect an increase in gang members abusing religious rights; 72.4% expect an increase in gang members assaulting correctional officers; and 44.8% expect an increase in radical militancy among inmates.

Bio

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

(20) “Within a Decade: How the Community Affairs Division Managed Graffiti Vandalism and Street Gang Activities While Attending Its Affairs”, by Retired Detective Ken Davis, Yonkers Police Department, Yonkers, NY.

Two (2) hours

Abstract

Bio

(21) “Gang Prevention - Intervention - Counseling Networking Reception”. by Martha Wall-Whitfield, Ph.D., Principal, Arkansas Juvenile Assessment and Treatment Center, Bryant, AR and TBA, NGCRC staff.

One (1) hour

Special Note: 5pm-6pm, Monday, August 4, 2025. You need a ticket for the event, you get the ticket by signing up for it on your registration form. The ticket will be waiting for you in your registration packet you receive when you pick up your conference ID credentials.

Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Problems in K-12 Schools; Gangs and Mental Health.

Special Procedure for Sign Up: You need to check the “box” on your registration form in order to qualify to attend this event. It is a “ticketed” event. You get the ticket by signing up for it on the registration form itself or by using the ticket request form at the website, or by sending in a request to that effect..

Abstract

The gang intervention/prevention reception is a special event at the NGCRC and it has a long history of also being a valuable networking session. Come hear some analysis of the current state of affairs in gang prevention and learn about some people who are really making a difference in the world. This is also the time and venue in which the “NGCRC Spirit of Excellence Awards” are made. There are also door prizes in a random drawing based on your ticket to the event. You need to have a ticket to attend this event. The only way to get a ticket is to sign up for it in advance on the registration form itself.

Bios

This reception is always hosted by trusted NGCRC staff. Hosts for 2026 are Dr. Martha Wall-Whitfield and TBA.

(22) “Gang/STG Intelligence: What We Know from the U.S. County Jails”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

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

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American county jails. It covers the kinds of challenges that jail correctional officers face in the real world. Examined in detail are those aspects of gang life that impact on safety and security (fights, threats, attacks, homemade weapons, racial conflict, etc). Attendees will learn get a detailed briefing on what is going on with regard to gangs in the context of American county jail facilities. Upon completion attendees will have a better understanding of the national picture of dealing with gangs in the jail environment.

Bio

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

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

One (1) hour

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

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

Abstract

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

Bios

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

Two (2) hours

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

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

Abstract

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

Bio

(25) “The Probation Officers/Court Staff Reception” by Dr. Andy Bain, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Criminal Justice & Sociology, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA; and Irene C. Paredes, Lake County Superior Court Juvenile Division, Crown Point, IN.

. One (1) hour

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

Note: This is held during noon time on Monday, Aug. 3^rd, and so that is why it is a ticketed event; you get your ticket by signing up for it on your registration form.

Abstract

This is a special reception for probation officers (juvenile and adult - - - county, state, and federal) and court personnel. It is held during the lunch hour on Monday. The purpose is to express appreciation to probation officers for their service in upholding the rule of law. If you are a probation officer or work for the court, come and attend, find a warm, friendly environment. Door prizes. Great chances to network and mingle. Learn something new, meet somebody new. Sponsored by the NGCRC staff, you will feel appreciated here. You need to sign up for it in advance as it is a ticketed event. You can sign up for it on your registration form.

Bios

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

Irene C. Paredes is a probation officer in the Lake County Superior Court, Juvenile Division, Crown Point, IN. She is NGCRC staff, heads up the Operations Center, and has been attending and working with the NGCRC for decades.

(26) “Drug-Induced Homicide Investigations and Prosecutions: A Case Study and Step-By-Step Guide to Handling Fatal Overdose Cases and Prosecuting the Gang Members and Drug Dealers Who Dealt the Drugs”, by Stuart T. Welch, Senior Contact Attorney, Harford County State’s Attorney’s Office, Bel Air, MD; and Detective Tyler Dailey, Harford County Sheriff’s Office, Bel Air, MD.

Two (2) hours

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

Abstract

Convicting a drug dealer/gang member of homicide/manslaughter for dealing drugs that resulted in a fatal overdose is a complicated by extremely useful tool in impacting the drug trade within gangs and other drug dealers. This session provides step-by-step details of how to investigate and prosecute drug dealers for fatal overdose cases from the very beginning of receiving the dispatch call to sentencing after conviction. You will get to hear real case examples from the perspective of the lead detective and lead prosecutor that secured the first ever manslaughter conviction in their county for a drug dealer that dealt drugs resulting in a fatal overdose.

Bios

Stuart Welch is the Senior Contact Attorney for the Felony Drug and Gun Unit at the Harford County State’s Attorney’s Office. Stuart is assigned to the Harford County Drug Task Force, which primarily investigates complex drug, gun, and gang cases throughout Harford County, Maryland. Stuart has prosecuted over 200 felony drug and/or gun cases, and he specializes in prosecuting drug dealers for dealing drugs that cause the fatal overdose of a victim. He secured the first ever conviction in Harford County of a drug dealer for Manslaughter for dealing the drugs that caused a fatal overdose. This is especially difficult in a state that has no drug-induced homicide laws. Stuart also serves as a member of the Overdose Fatality Review Board, where he studies fatal overdoses in Harford County in order to learn how to better prevent them going forward.

Detective Tyler Dailey has been a deputy with the Harford County Sheriff’s Office since 2017, and he is currently assigned to the Harford County Drug Task Force, where he primarily investigates drug, gun, and gang cases throughout the county. Detective Dailey has been the lead detective on multiple fatal overdose investigations, and he assisted Senior Contact Attorney Stuart Welch in securing the first ever conviction in Harford County of a drug dealer for Manslaughter for dealing the drugs that caused a fatal overdose.

(27) “A Social Economic Autopsy: A Look at the Root Causes of the Gang Problem”, by Troy R. Rogers, Chattonooga, TN.

One (1) hour

Session Credits: Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

The Social Economic Autopsy presentation is a deep, unflinching exploration of the layered root causes of crime and community deterioration — poverty, illiteracy, fatherlessness, and untreated mental illness. This is not a lecture. It’s a lens. A mirror. A movement. Those attending will be challenged to see beyond behavior and into the broken systems and silent traumas that shape the decisions of young men and women. This autopsy doesn’t place blame — it reveals truth, honors unseen pain, and invites every listener to become a builder of hope and healing in their places of influence.

Bio

Troy R. Rogers is a nationally respected public safety architect, community strategist, and founder of BrightWay Group and The Reentry Playbook. With over 30 years in violence prevention, reentry, and trauma-informed mentoring, he has transformed high-risk communities through relational and restorative strategies. A Public Safety Coordinator for Chattanooga, Troy is the author of The Unseen Work: The Ministry of Public Safety, Dreams Are Unlocked by Reading, and The 10 Commandments of Mentoring. His work challenges systems, inspires leaders, and restores dignity to the most overlooked — proving that healing and hope are always possible.