BSO’S THREAT MANAGEMENT DIVISION: A COUNTYWIDE APPROACH TO SCHOOL SAFETY

Imagine a student sharing an alarming post on social media. A parent notices concerning behavior. A teacher reports a possible threat. When a potential threat or concern is reported, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) doesn’t wait for the situation to escalate. Our Threat Management Division reviews the information, investigates the concern and coordinates a proactive response to help keep schools across Broward County safe.

A critical part of that response is BSO’s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). The RTCC gives BSO a countywide view of what is happening in real time. With access to live video feeds from nearly 30,000 cameras, including cameras in all Broward County Public Schools, investigators can monitor calls for service, track active threats, and quickly provide information to first responders on scene. This technology gives our team an important advantage: the ability to see more, understand more and respond faster.

The RTCC is also an integral part of BSO’s broader system for receiving, reviewing and evaluating school safety concerns. Last fiscal year, more than 400 tips related to school safety were submitted through BSO’s reporting systems and evaluated by RTCC. Each tip is examined for potential concerns, giving us an opportunity to identify issues early, gather more intelligence and determine what action may be needed.

When a potential threat is identified, the next step is determining the appropriate response. Our Threat Management Unit (TMU) and Behavioral Health Licensed Therapists (BHLTs) work together as part of a comprehensive approach to preventing violent incidents in schools. While their roles are distinct, their collaboration addresses both the public safety and behavioral health aspects of potential threats.

The role of a TMU detective is to conduct criminal investigations, gather intelligence, evaluate information and take appropriate law enforcement action when warranted. TMU investigates every tip, allowing us to identify credible threats while ensuring no potential warning sign is overlooked.

Working alongside our TMU detectives, our BHLTs identify behavioral health needs, evaluate risk factors and connect individuals with mental health services, treatment providers and other community resources. Last year, BSO’s BHLTs received more than 360 student referrals, with 36% of students accepting services. Connecting students with support when they need it allows our BHLTs to help address concerns early and mitigate the potential for future public safety risks.

The investigative units under BSO’s Threat Management Division form a proactive and comprehensive approach to school safety. From the initial report through the investigation, BSO uses every resource available to identify public safety concerns early, intervene when necessary and support those in crisis with the focused goal of keeping Broward County’s schools safe.

It’s important to remember, if you see something concerning, say something. Whether it’s a potential threat or suspicious activity, your report can give us the opportunity to act before a situation escalates. You can report suspicious activity by calling BSO’s non-emergency number at 954-764-HELP (4357) or downloading the SaferWatch app. In an emergency, always dial 911.

Learn more about BSO’s RTCC at https://www.sheriff.org/rtcc/.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony

Service Equals Reward