The horrific incidents that have taken place this past year in France, Egypt, Lebanon, the United States, Kenya, Nigeria, and other countries throughout the world demonstrate that violent extremism of all types is a growing global reality. Communities of all sizes are dealing with groups that proffer violent interpretations of their beliefs, radicals hoping to identify and groom new recruits, and individuals who radicalize to violence. Because of this new reality, it is more important than ever before that law enforcement leaders are given the tools they need to incorporate successful strategies to counter violent extremism (CVE).

The IACP has worked hard to provide support to agencies and leaders, beginning in 2008 with the release of a model policy and accompanying paper, providing officers with protocols when dealing with reports or confirmation of suicide bombers.