International Journal on Criminology Volume 4, Number 2, Winter 2016 | Page 3

International Journal on Criminology - Winter 2016, Volume 4, Number 2 Answering the Terrorism Challenge David Cohen A In the aftermath of 9/11 almost every major security, law enforcement, and intelligence organization around the world initiated sometimes dramatic changes to address the terrorist threat. None introduced more profound changes than the New York City Police Department (NYPD). This chapter focuses on how the NYPD re-engineered its intelligence structure, operations, and culture to address the post-9/11 threat to New York City. It is important to note that the NYPD response to the threat involved a broad array of CT programs beyond those of its intelligence activities. Threats and Consequences Before reviewing how the NYPD Intelligence Division evolved and operated after 9/11, a partial inventory of what it did during the period 2002 through 2013 is appropriate. During that period, New York City experienced 16 known plots directed at it from al-Qaeda core, al-Qaeda affiliated, or al-Qaedainspired homegrown terrorists. All were deterred. Of the 16, the NYPD Intelligence Division was responsible for stopping 3 and played an important or significant role in thwarting 3 others. Preventing a terrorist attack also meant preempting those who would train, plan, and plot. In this regard, the NYPD Intelligence Division, alone or in conjunction with the FBI or other Federal authorities, brought to justice several dozen persons who fit this description. A Former NYPD Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence 2