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Readout - DHS Public Safety Round Table in Ontario

August 25, 2015

ONTARIO, CA - Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-Pomona), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, brought together representatives from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with community leaders and local law enforcement officials for a Public Safety Round Table on "Emerging Threats to the Homeland" and their impact on the Inland Empire.

"As technology brings the world closer, it also means that the threat of terrorism is no longer limited by geography and radicalization is happening in the most unexpected places," said Torres. "I hosted this round table, because, as the eyes and ears of our communities, it has never been more important for local law enforcement and community and religious leaders to work in coordination with DHS to know what to look out for and how to prevent ever-changing terrorist threats."

Participating on the panel were: Anthony Frangipane, Director of the Southwest Region of the Department of Homeland Security; David Bowdich, Assistant Director in charge of the Los Angeles Joint Terrorism Task Force (FBI); and David Kennard, Branch Chief of FEMA Region IX Grants Program Directorate. Speakers discussed the structure and function of their organizations, homeland security threats of radicalization, mobilization from radicalization to terrorist action, and federal resources available to combat emerging homeland security threats.

"It is disconcerting to know that DHS Southwest Region alone has already arrested and indicted 63 ISIS supporters," Torres continued. "The discussion was productive and I hope informative for everyone involved. I was particularly encouraged by the conversation surrounding the vital balance between public safety and civil liberties and by Mr. Bowdich's remarks that FBI outreach to communities is key, not simply to gather intelligence but primarily to build relationships. I look forward to this becoming part of an ongoing dialogue and partnership between our local leaders and DHS to keep our communities and our nation safe."

The Round Table took place on August 20th at Ontario Police Department Headquarters. In addition to the representatives from DHS, approximately 50 local law enforcement officials and community leaders took part in the event.

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