FBI Dallas Division Hosts Executive Law Enforcement Training and Related Exercise

In January 2013, the Investigative Assistance for Violent Crimes Act of 2012 was signed into law. This law grants federal law enforcement agencies the authority to assist in responding to violent acts and shootings in public places and in mass or attempted mass killings. Furthermore, Executive Order 3365-2013 assigned responsibility to the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Education to lead law enforcement training and develop model emergency management plans (EMPs) for schools, institutions of higher learning, and houses of worship. As a result of violent shooting incidents in Aurora, Colorado, and Newtown, Connecticut, the White House enacted a new initiative that called for the FBI to implement training to law enforcement agencies nationwide.

On April 17-18, 2013, the FBI Dallas Division hosted its first conference that focused on active shooter situations and conducted the public safety tabletop exercise developed under this initiative. The exercise was designed to increase the collaboration and coordination among the area’s local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in the planning and preparation for responding to an active shooter incident. This event was attended by 41 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and other emergency/public safety agencies from the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex.

“We have incredible law enforcement and public safety leadership in the Dallas/Fort Worth area,” stated FBI Dallas Division Special Agent in Charge Diego Rodriguez. “By working and training together, we can support and leverage all available assets and capabilities to more effectively respond to and resolve a critical event such as an active shooter incident. The goal is to work together as a team to save lives.”