Ask Me Anything: Criminal Intelligence Analyst — Part II
Homeland Humanity is proud to bring you our Ask Me Anything series. Each week, we’ll feature a member of our team answering your most pressing questions about their work in the Homeland Security Enterprise. Missed the question asking party? Don’t worry! Check out the bottom of the post for contact details.
Who am I? SF Bay Area resident, ex-marathoner, spin enthusiast, paleo cook, Hibernophile, wine consumer, contemplator.
Ask me anything, continued….
6. What kind of training do you go through?
I’ve had extensive training over the years. One of the most fascinating classes was a “critical thinking” course by a phenomenal instructor from Michigan State University, Dr. Michael Rip. While it was not specific to law enforcement it was most relevant. We learned how beliefs and preconceived notions influence our observations and insights, why stories or anecdotes tend to override statistics and facts, and the limits of our memories and observations. This course had quite an impact on me as it really increased my awareness of my own biases. And then, of course, there are many other classes and certifications that have to do with the technicalities of my job. These include crime mapping, cell tower mapping, cell phone forensics, link analysis, wiretap certification, search warrant training and crime analysis courses.
7. What are your thoughts on police and community relations?
I think we are in the midst of a very challenging time with distrust of police from their respective community members. And I think there are officers dealing with apprehension of interacting with the public due to this, and at times, fear. Including the fear of being ambushed or fear of being recorded and “YouTubed” out of context of the situation. It saddens me that some people believe that the police do not value them. I also fear for the safety of my co-workers and all emergency responders throughout this country. Yes, certainly there are some officers that have lacked regard for life, truth, and justice. And I hope they are eliminated by their leadership, and if applicable, prosecuted. Yet I see acts of kindness and heroism all of the time. Truthfully, I find it inspiring. Which makes it all the more difficult when something questionable, or tragic, occurs. I truly hope in these contentious times that communities and police can start small by finding common ground and tackle the larger issues together as partners. I am very grateful that my police department has and continues to invest in our community and in turn, is well supported by our community.
8. Have you ever been the victim of a crime?
I have been victimized many times, which isn’t surprising living in a large urban city. Though sometimes I wonder if I’ve experienced more than the average person. Fortunately, no one has ever been harmed. I have had my car broken into multiple times and my car was burnt to oblivion by an arsonist (I didn’t think I had any enemies!) Also, my wallet was stolen from my purse while on a crowded bus, I’ve twice been the victim of major hit and run accidents while my car was parked and (luckily) unoccupied, and last but not least, I was “flashed” by a man who followed me into my apartment lobby. That’s it — I hope!
9. Do you listen to person’s phone calls?
I occasionally listen to recorded calls made from our jail. Inmates are advised with each phone call that it may be monitored. So it never ceases to amaze me the things inmates say on a recorded call, such as, “Mom, you gotta get rid of the gun under my bed”. Or, I find it really amusing when they whisper. I guess they don’t realize that if the person on the other end can hear them, so can the police.
10. Do you buy the donuts?
Occasionally, as a treat for others. I don’t just love them, I LOVE them. However, I only indulge once or twice a year. But when I do, it’s always a chocolate old-fashioned.
