The State of Readiness of Criminal Justice Agencies in an All-Hazards Emergency Preparedness World

ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Lisa Ann Martin (Creator)
Institution
Appalachian State University (ASU )
Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Advisor
Ken Mullen

Abstract: This exploratory research examines the presence of four key elements of disaster and emergency preparedness–sustainability, planning, training, and information dissemination–within local level criminal justice and supporting agencies. Data were gathered during interviews with personnel from 32 local level agencies in North Carolina. Findings reflect an overall propensity to equip, plan, train, and inform personnel for an agency’s mission away from their specific worksite during the response or recovery phase of an emergency event rather than for the safety and security of personnel and facilities during and immediately following an event. This trend is revealed by the low to moderate number of organizations reporting (a) the presence of stockpiled disaster supplies, (b) written agency-specific emergency operations and continuity of operations plans, (c) training exercises incorporating those plans, and (d) the dissemination of information throughout their workforce regarding their agency’s plans. This project suggests the necessity to investigate further the status of disaster/emergency management preparedness in the criminal justice system at the local level throughout the state and the country.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Martin, L.A. The State of Readiness of Criminal Justice Agencies in an All-Hazards Emergency Preparedness World. Unpublished master’s thesis. Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
Language: English
Date: 2012
Keywords
Criminal Justice Agencies, Emergency preparedness, Disaster Preparedness, Public Health, Emergency Management

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