History

On Nov. 15, 2023, the Erie County Law Enforcement Foundation presented the inaugural Safe Places Seminar to provide more instruction and guidance for law enforcement, businesses/workplaces, houses of worship, military bases, schools, nonprofit service providers, residential complexes, public transportation and open space operations to prevent targeted violence and other threats to enhance safety for the public and those who are working for/serving the public. With the active support of the US Secret Service Buffalo Field Office, the National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) and the DHS Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) both presented on Preventing Targeted Violence and other Threats in Public Spaces to an audience of 600 persons who gathered in-person & virtually.

NTAC provided a thorough analysis of 173 targeted attacks that were the subject of their published report “Mass Attacks in Public Spaces: 2016-2020.” CISA then demonstrated how they can partner with organizations to help manage risk and increase security.

A vendor fair was also assembled featuring businesses and organizations who provide relevant safety products, applications, and services.

The seminar was offered for free.