South Dakota Opens Intelligence Fusion Center


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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, June 15, 2006
Contact: Brooke Bohnenkamp, Public Information Officer, 605.773.3178
 
South Dakota Opens Intelligence Fusion Center
 
 
South Dakota now has one central location for investigating, collecting, and disseminating intelligence concerning homeland security.
 
The fusion center begins operations today. It is housed in the GeorgeS.MickelsonCriminalJusticeCenter in Pierre and is staffed by the South Dakota Office of Homeland Security and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Eventually, the South Dakota National Guard will join the operation.
 
“Intelligence is really one big puzzle. When you put the pieces together, you see the whole picture,” said John Berheim, Director of the South Dakota Office of Homeland Security. “This fusion center gives us the means and the resources to take clues and see how they fit into a larger plan.”
 
The fusion center staff will monitor and share intelligence discovered through local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, military organizations, public tips and media sources. It will also enhance the state Homeland Security Office’s ability to interact with the federally operated Joint Terrorism Task Force in Sioux Falls.
 
Additionally, the fusion center is the clearinghouse for tips and concerns that are reported by the public. People who witness anything unusual in regards to national security should call the fusion center tip line at 1.866.HOMLAND (466.5263) or email the fusion at sdfusioncenter@state.sd.us.
 
“It’s been more than five years since the 9/11 attacks happened. We are now far more prepared as a state and a nation to deal with terror threats, but it’s no time to let our guard down,” said Berheim. “Law enforcement can’t be everywhere. I strongly encourage anyone who sees unusual behavior or suspicious activity to report it right away.”
 
 
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