A biological attack poses a major health risk for the general public and requires a skilled response from local law enforcement. However, a lack of awareness of current biological technologies behind the production of these weapons hinders law enforcement bio-surveillance efforts. Sharing these technologies among the local law enforcement community could aid with better preparedness and assist with protecting officers who respond to a bio-attack. Similar to fentanyl and other dangerous substances, early identification is key to preventing or containing an outbreak.

CRPOA is pleased to post an article (click here) written by Eric Smith, an undergraduate biology student at Stanford University with a background in law enforcement. We encourage any of our members with a medical or scientific background to consider educating other officers within their respective departments about this topic and, if you don’t have this background, to share this information with your fellow law enforcement officers. With a greater awareness of this issue, our members will be better prepared in the event of a bio-attack of the type described by Mr. Smith.

Stay safe out there.

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About the author: Eric Smith joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Explorer Program (LASD) in August of 2012. After graduating from LASD’s North Academy, Eric worked Uniform Patrol at the Lost Hills Sheriff Station and at Transit Services Bureau (formerly Transit Policing Division).

If you would like to learn more about biological technologies and biosecurity, please email Eric at esmith53@stanford.edu. Eric will be part of the 2018-2019 teaching team for Stanford’s Biosecurity and Bioterrorism Response Course (BioE 122).
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James M. René, Esquire
General Counsel, California Reserve Peace Officers Association
Police Sergeant, Administration / Special Counsel – San Fernando Police Department (Reserve Division)
Email: rene@crpoa.org
Phone: 855-552-7762, ext. 112 (non-emergency)
855-552-7762, ext. 1 (emergency)