Violent Crimes & Terrorism Trends
Law Enforcement Partnering Agencies
in·let n. (ˈin-let)
A stream or bay leading inland, as from the ocean; an estuary.
A connection between a bay and the ocean; often called an “entrance”.
An opening providing a means of entrance or intake.
As the ocean is connected to streams, rivers, and large bays through an inlet, INLETS connects larger agencies and their experience to mid-size and smaller agencies, together, making them all more effective.
Over the last 14 years, INLETS – partnering with the FBI and the Maryland State Fusion Center – have welcomed over 13,000 attendees from more than 1,200 agencies, across 48 states and seven countries. Thousands of attendee surveys rate INLETS courses a 9.4 (of 10).
- SGT. S. Lentz, Mesa PD, Arizona"
Setting the course for 2026...
- 06
- - 06
- 06
- August
- 2026
- INLETS
- Online
- 03
- - 03
- 03
- September
- 2026
- INLETS
- Online
- 01
- - 01
- 01
- October
- 2026
- INLETS
- Online
INLETS Courses
Three Day Courses | Classroom Format | Led by Seasoned Investigators
SME Professionals | Relevant Topics | Partner with Leading Agencies
Finding People: Social Media & Tech Driven Investigations: Individuals are connected through cell phones, social media, vehicles, and the Internet of Things. This course provides a concentrated look at exploiting social media platforms, various tech resources and applications through case studies on how to use today’s tech to drive your investigations.
“This was an excellent balance of content, including practitioner tools, concrete case studies, and conceptual discussions. It expanded one’s toolkit and perspective. And the INLETS team produced a seamless, well-organized conference.” – NB, Washington Metro (DC) PD
The Homicide Investigators Course: A chronological agenda with presenters from every aspect of the most important case you will ever work: Homicide. Presenters include experienced homicide investigators, crime scene techs, tech resources, prosecutors, the Medical Examiners Office, the notorious defense attorney, and the powerful sharing of the spouse of a victim, sharing their experience of receiving the worst news fathomable to ajudication and the importance of the relationship with the Detective developed in between.
“A great week of learning and hearing how major departments like NYPD and LAPD investigate homicides is inspiring to smaller agencies. I can’t wait to see what they will include in future events.” DR, Anne Arundel County PD
Targeted Violence & Threat Assessment: An agenda focused on identifying, preventing, and mitigating mass casualty and targeted violence incidents. Featuring leading Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management experts, practitioners from the FBI BAU, other federal agencies, and military entities.
“INLETS did a great job mixing detailed information, with rubber meets the road case studies, providing a fresh look at a frequently offered topic.” – JF, Baltimore County PD
The Basic Investigator Course provides fundamental instruction relevant to all criminal investigations including crime scene considerations, tenets of interviewing adults and children, death investigations, and the prosecutors point of view. It also includes investigative resources through state and federal agencies, and technologies to focus and to advance investigations.
Charting through 2025...
2025: Over 600 attendees from 250 agencies and entities from 15 states joined us to hear investigators from FBI BAU Profilers, ATF, DHS, US Diplomatic Sercurity Service, New Scotland Yard, NYPD, Aurora Colorado, the Queens’ DA’s Office, Suffolk County (NY) PD, MVA, and the MCAC share case studies, current threats and emerging trends.
Subject Matter Experts including Amy Herman, BERLA, Blue Top Consulting, FedSquared Consulting, Footprints Consulting, 3Si, T3 Intelligence Services, and FBI CAST provided attendees insight and application of available, leading edge technology and concepts to help further cases.
Partners like Sustaining Sponsor GardAWorld, MF&E, BERLA, Databouy, and the Maryland Police Training Commission provided support and grants to make the year a success.
Participating Partners including the FBI, Washington/Baltimore HIDTA, and the Maryland Coordination & Analysis Center for the shared vision of Private Public Partnerships and the vision to continue to prepare law enforcement for the coming threats
Thank you to the attendees for sacraficing personal and work schedules to join us, for those who traveled to share their experiences and knowledge, and those who supported INLETS to make it all possible.
Thanks for joining us in June at the 13th Mid-Atlantic Violent Crimes & Terrorism Trends in Annapolis
Featured Presenter Amy Herman started it off and Subject Matter Presenters followed suit from:
New Scotland Yard, FBI Profilers, US Diplomatic Security, NYPD (ret.), Aurora (CO) PD, Queens (NYC) DA’s Office, Putnam County DA, Suffolk County (NY) PD (ret.), Maryland MVA, and others.
Tribute to Heroes Dinner:
Keynote Kim “Killer Chick” Campbell, COL., USAF (ret.) provided an inspirational message of Flying in the Face of Fear.
Colleagues from three different states were recognized for their work and going Above & Beyond.
A moving Tribute to Fallen Officers allowed attendees to reflect on the price of service and sacrifice.
The Enrichment Visit took us to the US Capitol Building for a unique and private tour by the USCP, who shared their personal experiences of January 6.
Follow us:
DAVE BRAY USA Kristina Tanasichuk Ralph Cilento MISSION BBQ Tom O'Connor Maryland State Police
The day started with case studies and presentations from New Scotland Yard's Counter Terrorism Command and Melissa Merola of Starling Consultants on nihilistic violece extremism and then a cryptocurrency case study from FBI NYC, it was off to this year's Enrichment Visit to Ft. Henry National Monument and Historic Shrine. It was more than appropriate as America's 250th birthday looms.
After the British Navy rolled in and burned down the Capital in Washington, DC, destroyed and pummeled the coastal city of Annapolis, they sailed north to Baltimore. While the Brits made their attack plan, two guys - Skinner and Key - approached on a truce ship to negotiate the release of a POW.
The Brits that day began a 25 hour bombardment of a star-shaped fort on the water's edge of Baltimore. A garrison of 1,000 Americans stood their ground. At dawn, they raised the American flag up the pole.
The American's more than prevailed. They were victorious.
The next morning, as Francis Scott Key stood on the bow of the truce ship looking in through the morning haze and cannon ball's lingering smoke, he said “Oh say, can you see?..." …and that became the start of our National Anthem.
America defeated the Brits that day for the first time in the War of 1812. And the war ended 3 months later with America victorious. y5
The National Police of Ukraine traveled for two days to share the challenges and advances of working sexual assaults, human rights violations, and war crimes during an ongoing war.
An FBI's Victim Specialist and FBIHQ shared the numerous resources available during mass casualty Incidents and the overarching strategy on investigting nihilistic violent extremists.
Thanks to GTSC's Homeland Security Today and Kristina Tanasichuk for partnering with FBI WFO's Erin Sheridan to arrange the NPU delegation's visit. And to Jennifer Safir and the Howard & Carol Safir Foundation for their support.
The On the Inlets Tribute to Heroes evening program reflected on 9/11... and 25 years later, which is only a long time if you measure by years.
Paul Mauro, executive, NYPD (ret.) and Fox News Contributor shared his experience of responding to the Twin Towers and how LE changed throughout his career including as head of the NYPD counter terrorism program.
Todd Pettengill, radio personality, formerly 95.5 WPLJ, recounted how the cast of the #1 FM radio show in NYC transitioned from their ensemble entertainment format to being the eyes and ears of city broadcasting from atop of Madison Square Garden.
DAVE BRAY USAAY USA led us in the National Anthem, then performed an emotional rendition of Hallelujah and led us in Amazing Grace as the slides rolled of the 110 fallen officers of the last 12 months, the 72 law enforcement who died on 9/11, and the, shockingly, 618 since from 9/11 related illnesses.
These three gentlemen - independent and interwoven - reflected, reminded, and honored all those who've made the ultimate sacrifice.
Special thanks to Kristina Tanasichuk and GTSC's Homeland Security Today and Jen Safir and the Howard & Carol Safir Foundation for sharing the vision to make this week happen.
For more information about INLETS' online and in person courses, visit www.OnTheINLETS.org or scan the QR code.
INLETS, a non-profit 501(c)3, collaborates with the FBI, the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center, and Washington/Baltimore HIDTA to provide current and emerging threats facing law enforcement, which honors the legacy of Howard Safir, a transformational public safety leader whose distinguished career spanned more than three decades.
From wherever you call home, from whichever community you serve, on your phone or at your desktop, at the office or in the car, we look forward to you joining us, On The INLETS.
The HCSF carries the legacy of Howard Safir, a transformational leader whose distinguished career spanned more than three decades.
Through their support, INLETS' six-part webinar series is available to all law enforcement and military/Intel investigators and analysts, and private sector stakeholders free of charge.
Focused on the current threats and emerging trends facing communities today, it is fitting that the HCSF "powers" the series. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Safir was dedicated to addressing issues in urban policing, drug enforcement and cross-jurisdictional coordination. He was widely respected for championing innovative, data-informed, community-centered strategies that strengthened public trust, improved outcomes, and elevated the standards of professional practice across agencies.
From wherever you serve, we look forward to seeing you on INLETS Online, powered by the Howard & Carol Safir Foundation!
Find out more about the HCSF, INLETS Online, and February 5th's topic, "Open Source Social Media Best Practices" at www.OnTheINLETS.org.
Getting ready for the 1:00 kick-off...
Looking forward to seeing you, On The INLETS!
- Abraham Lincoln
***WARNING: INLETS provides courses on violent crimes and terrorism. Material is graphic in nature, including: verbal descriptions, photos, and videos. Disturbing and offensive material and language may be included in presentations. WARNING***
In 2025, INLETS welcomed over 500 attendees across 20 states in more than 150 state and local agencies and 20 Federal entities.
From the Lobster state to the Sunshine state, the Pacific NW, down to SoCal. From the Buckeye state to deep in the heart of Texas, thanks for coming.
FROM WHEREVER YOU TRAVEL and WHICHEVER COMMUNITY YOU SERVE, WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU, NEXT TIME, ON THE INLETS!
Partners
MCAC Training
Law Enforcement PartnerThe Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center (MCAC) was established as a model facility for the analysis and dissemination of information in statewide support of law enforcement, public health and welfare, public safety and homeland security. Fusion centers contribute to the Information Sharing Environment (ISE) through their role in receiving threat information from the federal government;
✕
MCAC Training
Law Enforcement PartnerThe Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center (MCAC) was established as a model facility for the analysis and dissemination of information in statewide support of law enforcement, public health and welfare, public safety and homeland security.
Fusion centers contribute to the Information Sharing Environment (ISE) through their role in receiving threat information from the federal government; analyzing that information in the context of their local environment; disseminating that information to local agencies; and gathering tips, leads, and suspicious activity reporting (SAR) from local agencies and the public. They analyze the information and develop relevant products to disseminate to their customers. These products assist homeland security partners at all levels of government to identify and address immediate and emerging threats.
Beyond serving as a focal point for information sharing, fusion centers add significant value to their customers by providing a state and local context to help enhance the national threat picture. Fusion centers provide the federal government with critical state and local information and subject matter expertise that it did not receive in the past – enabling the effective communication of locally generated threat related information to the federal government. Integrating and connecting these state and local resources creates a national capacity to gather, process, analyze, and share information in support of efforts to protect the country.
Our nation faces an evolving threat environment, in which threats not only emanate from outside our borders, but also from within our communities. This new environment demonstrates the increasingly critical role fusion centers play to support the sharing of threat-related information between the federal government and SLTT partners.
Washington & Baltimore HIDTA
Law Enforcement PartnerHIDTA’s mission is to reduce drug trafficking and misuse by improving interagency collaboration, promoting accurate and timely information and intelligence sharing, and providing specialized training and other resources to its law enforcement, intelligence, treatment, and prevention initiatives. To accomplish its mission, the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA will strategically apply its resources to initiatives designed to save lives,
✕Washington & Baltimore HIDTA
Law Enforcement PartnerHIDTA’s mission is to reduce drug trafficking and misuse by improving interagency collaboration, promoting accurate and timely information and intelligence sharing, and providing specialized training and other resources to its law enforcement, intelligence, treatment, and prevention initiatives. To accomplish its mission, the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA will strategically apply its resources to initiatives designed to save lives, prevent initiation of drug use, and apprehend drug traffickers and money launderers.
Within the next five years, our efforts to dismantle and disrupt drug trafficking and money laundering organizations, provide treatment resources, and develop drug prevention programs will save lives and strengthen communities and families in the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA region.
The W/B HIDTA funds 43 individual law enforcement initiatives developed to identify and disrupt/dismantle drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations; reduce drug-related crime and violence; and identify and respond to emerging drug trends. Federal, state and local law enforcement from over 80 different agencies work in HIDTA-funded initiatives. Within the next five years, HIDTA’s efforts to dismantle and disrupt drug trafficking and money laundering organizations, provide treatment resources, and develop drug prevention programs will save lives and strengthen communities and families in the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA region.
The Howard & Carol Safir Foundation
INLETS Online Sponsoring PartnerThe Howard & Carol Safir Foundation is the sponsor of INLETS Online, the webinar series that provides attendees the opportunity to hear from leading experts on threats that face our communities today and emerging trends on their way. Through their support, Season Four is available to the law enforcement and military/Intel investigators and analysts, and
✕
The Howard & Carol Safir Foundation
INLETS Online Sponsoring PartnerThe Howard & Carol Safir Foundation is the sponsor of INLETS Online, the webinar series that provides attendees the opportunity to hear from leading experts on threats that face our communities today and emerging trends on their way. Through their support, Season Four is available to the law enforcement and military/Intel investigators and analysts, and private sector stakeholders free of charge.
The HCSF carries the legacy of Howard Safir, a transformational leader whose distinguished career spanned more than three decades. Mr. Safir served as New York City’s Police Commissioner and Fire Commissioner and held senior leadership roles in the U.S. Marshals Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Throughout his career, Mr. Safir was dedicated to addressing issues in urban policing, drug enforcement and cross-jurisdictional coordination. He was widely respected for championing innovative, data-informed, community-centered strategies that strengthened public trust, improved outcomes, and elevated the standards of professional practice across agencies.
To carry forward Mr. Safir’s legacy of leadership and service, the Safir family – led by his wife, Carol Safir, and his children, Jennifer and Adam Safir – established the HCSF and partners with INLETS to advance his vision for public safety grounded in excellence, innovation and impact.
Berla
Benefactor Sponsor✕
Berla
Benefactor SponsorThe evolution of vehicle forensics.
Creating solutions for investigators to identify, acquire, and analyze critical information stored within vehicle systems to uncover key evidence that determines what happened, where it occurred, and who was involved.
Visit their website here.
Maryland Center for School Safety
✕
Maryland Center for School Safety
The Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS) serves as an independent unit of the State government that provides grants, training, and support to public, non-public special education, and private schools throughout Maryland. MCSS was established in 2013 in an effort to provide a coordinated and comprehensive approach to school safety in Maryland. In 2018, the Governor and General Assembly worked together to enact comprehensive school safety legislation (Safe to Learn Act 2018) in order to ensure Maryland continues to be a leader in school safety initiatives.
MCSS promotes collaboration among students, parents, educators, mental health practitioners, law enforcement, and crime prevention practitioners with a particular focus on the physical and emotional well-being of Maryland students. In concert with MCSS, Maryland public, non-public special education, and private schools are committed to fostering collaboration and effective communication among school staff, students, and law enforcement. Our shared efforts serve as a foundation for Maryland’s diverse schools to better identify and address the needs and concerns of our students. In the process, we are creating inclusive educational environments free from fear, harm, trauma, and unnecessary hardship.
7-11 Northeast Territory
Private Sector Partner✕
7-11 Northeast Territory
Private Sector Partner7-Eleven, Inc. is an American convenience store chain, headquartered in Irving, Texas and owned by Japanese Seven & I Holdings through Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd. The chain was founded in 1927 as an ice house storefront in Dallas. The Northeast Territory of the US has been a dedicated sponsor of the INLETS Training events for many years.
The Howard & Carol Safir Foundation
INLETS Online Webinar Sponsor✕The Howard & Carol Safir Foundation
INLETS Online Webinar SponsorThe Howard & Carol Safir Foundation is the “Powered By” sponsor of INLETS Online, the webinar series that provides attendees the opportunity to hear from leading experts on threats that face our communities today and emerging trends on their way. Through their support, Season Four is available to the law enforcement and military/Intel investigators and analysts, and private sector stakeholders free of charge.
The HCSF carries the legacy of Howard Safir, a transformational leader whose distinguished career spanned more than three decades. Mr. Safir served as New York City’s Police Commissioner and Fire Commissioner and held senior leadership roles in the U.S. Marshals Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Throughout his career, Mr. Safir was dedicated to addressing issues in urban policing, drug enforcement and cross-jurisdictional coordination. He was widely respected for championing innovative, data-informed, community-centered strategies that strengthened public trust, improved outcomes, and elevated the standards of professional practice across agencies.
To carry forward Mr. Safir’s legacy of leadership and service, the Safir family – led by his wife, Carol Safir, and his children, Jennifer and Adam Safir – established the HCSF and partners with INLETS to advance his vision for public safety grounded in excellence, innovation and impact.
M.F. & E.
Private Sector Partner✕
M.F. & E.
Private Sector PartnerM.F. & E. Investigation Services LLC provides tutoring, investigation, and bilingual translation services to empower your higher education and investigative path while keeping your name and educational goals discreet. Throughout the year, we interact with health and law enforcement specialists to ensure you receive the most up-to-date information and best practices. We offer services to help you improve your internal skills to conduct analytical research so you can contribute more effectively to your team or work independently. Three pillars support positive learning: Understanding\knowledge, thinking both critically and constructively.
We understand that forensic microbial science, forensic epidemiology, microbiology, molecular biology, and epidemiology might be difficult to undertake on one’s own when one’s life and job schedule are hectic. Our services are created to help public safety and public health professionals progress their careers while also protecting the people in our society.
MISSION B.B.Q.
Private Sector Partner✕
MISSION B.B.Q.
Private Sector PartnerAs a Regional Cornerstone Partner, the mission of Mission: After traveling this great country in search of the nation’s best BBQ, they felt inspired to bring this great food home. Especially for those who protect us all, the hard-workers who get it done every day, the home teams we cheer for, and of course, family and friends. Their mission is to serve you the most authentic, mouth-watering all-American food that’s done right.
CFIX
Law Enforcement Partner✕
CFIX
Law Enforcement PartnerThe Central Florida Intelligence Exchange (CFIX) is an all crimes/all hazards fusion center in Central Florida supporting nine counties: Brevard, Indian River, Lake, Martin, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, St. Lucie and Volusia. CFIX has on-site staffing from multiple local, state, and federal agencies. The CFIX is a “Fusion Center,” defined by the Department of Justice as a “mechanism to exchange information and intelligence, maximize resources, streamline operations, and improve the ability to fight crime and terrorism by analyzing data from a variety of sources”.
LA-Safe
Law Enforcement Partner✕
LA-Safe
Law Enforcement PartnerThe Louisiana State Analytical and Fusion Exchange (LA-SAFE), also called the State Fusion Center, promotes collaboration in an all-crimes/all hazards environment. It supports local, State, Federal and private sectors by working together to provide timely information for use in promoting public safety and national security against terrorism and other criminal threats.LA-SAFE supports the State during major disasters and emergencies by gathering, analyzing and disseminating information to assist relevant agencies.