In the wake of the terrorist attacks in September 2001, the 9/11 Commission recommended that the U.S. Intelligence Community (USIC) find a way to improve information sharing of terrorism-related intelligence at all three levels of government (local, state, and federal). The USIC’s answer to this recommendation was the creation of intelligence fusion centers.

Since the creation of these intelligence fusion centers, there has been much controversy because of the large amounts of personal information secretly collected and shared within the U.S. intelligence and law enforcement communities. In addition, some critics argue that in the years since their creation, fusion centers and the law enforcement entities affiliated with them have moved away from their original purpose and instead have utilized federal grants and resources to fight local crime.

Primary Task Response: Within the Discussion Board area, write 400–600 words that respond to the following questions with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. This will be the foundation for future discussions by your classmates. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas:

· In your opinion, how effective are U.S. fusion centers? Explain.

· Do you feel that the creation of fusion centers has improved information sharing of terrorism-related information at all three levels of government? Why or why not?

· Do you feel that fusion centers have ultimately moved away from their intended purpose? Why or why not?

· Are fusion centers now being used as a local law enforcement tool to help fight local crime? Why or why not?

Responses to Other Students: Respond to at least 2 of your fellow classmates with at least a 100-word reply about their Primary Task Response regarding items you found to be compelling and enlightening. To help you with your discussion, please consider the following questions:

· What did you learn from your classmate's posting?

· What additional questions do you have after reading the posting?

· What clarification do you need regarding the posting?

· What differences or similarities do you see between your posting and other classmates' postings?

For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.

Reading Assignment

You can find links to the following articles in the Unit 1 Assignment Descriptions:

· Executive Order for NCTC

· Fusion Centers Are Baselines Needed

· Role of the NCTC