National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) (2024)

WHAT: The Biggest and Best Gang Training Conference --- Gang School 2025.

When? --- August 4th, August 5th, August 6th, 2025

Where is it being held? --- Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago Hotel

Why Attend? Read more inside this on-lineversion of the brochure.

Who Should Attend: Anyone who is impacted by the gang problem, whatever your role, rank, or status in life. If you can be potentially enlisted in the fight against gangs, you are welcome. From prosecutor to corrections professional, from gang specialist police officer to gang counselor at the local high school or a local prevention program; or maybe you are just someone who wants to learn a lot more about gangs and network with others nationwide.

How to Attend: A registration form is provided at the end of this file, you can fax it in or mail it in. You can print out just the Registration Form itself at www.ngcrc.com/register.html

NGCRC CONTACT INFO: (TEL: 708 258-9111; FAX 708 258-9546).

The 2025 NGCRC 28th Gang Specialist Training Conference

2025 Conference Information Site--- The Full Text On-Line Version

Last UPDATED: August 18, 2024

© Copyright 2024, NGCRC, Chicago, IL.. You are now in the "2025 Conference" section of the National Gang Crime Research Center, this is a lengthy text file providing a detailed description of the August 4-August 6, 2025 NGCRC Gang Training Confererence being held in Chicago; the main website of the NGCRC is: www.ngcrc.com Click here if you want to visit the main page of the NGCRC: www.ngcrc.com.

What's New: We Are Creating a Massive Training Curriculum --- See Below

We are now creating the 2025 NGCRC Gang Training Program. The 2025 curriculum will be listed at: https://ngcrc.com/courses.html

Additional courses or sessions will be added between now and the date of the conference. The NGCRC gang training conference is unique in providing so many different choices and always has over 100 session for trainees to pick from.

Advance information will soon be available about the 2025 curriculum and we will soon start to list the courses for the 2025 NGCRC Gang Training Conference. Over N = 100 sessions were listed in the 2024 curriculum. The 2025 curriculum promises to be bigger and better than ever before. It will be listed at the 2024 Courses Page: https://ngcrc.com/courses.html

What's New: The Advance Version of the Schedule Will Be Available Soon

The advance or preliminary schedule of the 2025 NGCRC Conference Events will be posted here and at: https://ngcrc.com/schedule.html

The "Criss-Cross" Study Guide Will Be Available Soon

The "criss-cross" study guide will be listed here and at: https://ngcrc.com/crisscross.html

What's New: Statistical Evaluation Results from the 2024 Conference Will Be Reported Soon
The statiistical results from the analysis of evaluation data for the 2023 conference are now here. See below, though, very consistent results from year to year from previous evaluations.

What's New: The NGCRC Continues to Set the Standard for the Highest Calibre of Gang Training

The NGCRC now has a special training track dealing with and focusing on gang victims, the victims of gang crime, and witness services for persons who are witnesses to gang crimes, as well as the special attention needed for the survivors of gang related homicides. The NGCRC is proud to note that one of the gang specialist trainers is Dr Janice Joseph is also an international leader in the area of victimology.. Dr. Joseph teaches criminal justice at Stockton University in Pomona, New Jersey. Recently, she was elected to be the president of the World Society of Victimology (WSV) and gave her presidential speech during the 17th International Symposium of the WSV being held in San Sebastian, Spain in June, 2023. She previously served as president of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS). Elvis Slaughter is a criminologist who served as a fire and police commissioner, and is a retired Cook County Sheriff’s Superintendent with more than thirty years’ experience in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement. Slaughter holds a Master’s in Criminal Justice and Corrections. He has authored several articles and ten books, which include Safer Jail and Prison Matters, Mentally Ill Inmates and Corrections, and Preschool to Prison. Elvis is a speaker, security consultant, and correctional auditor. He is also a member of the American Jail Association, American Correctional Association, Hammond Police Citizen Advisory Commission, National Sheriff’s Association, Illinois Sheriff’s Association, and former president of he Illinois Academy of Criminology. Elvis taught criminal justice at the college level. A published article by him on the topic of gang victim and witness services published in the Journal of Gang Research. Look at the "quotes" from those who attended the 2023 conference (provided below) to see many examples of how the NGCRC training conference is regarded as the best in its class.

What's New: Get Your Free Ticket to a Baseball Game.

If there are White Sox or Chicago Cubs games in town during the conference, then we will be giving away some ticketson a first come first served basis.

This is Your Invitation to Attend the August 4, 2025 - August 6, 2025 Conference:

It's the conference you cannot afford to miss. In the summer of 2025, the National Gang Crime Research Center will hold its 28th gang training conference in Chicago --- once again bringing together the Nation's top experts on gangs and gang-related issues.

It's the experience you’ve come to expect --- the opportunity to network with law enforcement, corrections, prevention and intervention gang specialists, those working in K-12 Schools, the mental health field, nd private sector professionals from all over the country and abroad.

Once again, the NGCRC will be offering you an enormous variety of choices to craft the education that is most pertinent to you and your jurisdiction.

You'll come away with new insights, the latest intell, and the most effective strategies to combat gangs.

You cannot afford to miss the NGCRC's 28th Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago (Summer, 2025).

Don't delay!

There is a registration form for you at www.ngcrc.com/register.html and at the end of this large text file which describes the training conference in great detail.

- - - -

AN INVITATION FOR GANG SPECIALIST PRESENTERS:

Dear Gang Specialist:

The NGCRC cordially invites you to consider making a presentation at the 2025 Twenty Eighth NGCRC International Gang Specialist Training Conference (August 4th - August 6th, 2025 at the Westin Hotel). The 2025 event is going to be a major event in gang training. There will be some new and wonderful events at the 2025 NGCRC Conference, you will want to be a part of it. Perhaps doing so as both an attendee, plus being a presenter too. There is still time to get a session added to the 2025 conference. Some high priority track areas we are trying to find new presenters for include: (a) Motorcycle gangs, (b) Gang Crime Analysis, Mapping, and Digital Forensics Skills, (c) Faith-Based Programs for Gang Intervention, (d) Gang Victim, Witness, and Survivor Services, and (3) Intelligence Analysis for Gang Specialists..

This is your formal invitation to submit one or more “session proposals”. When you make a presentation at the NGCRC training conference you get national attention. You get a lot of positive exposure.

To help you get started, below, please find a "Session Proposal Form". It is simple, there are only a couple things we need on the form. The most important is going to be the topic and the abstract. We encourage you to think creatively. We can also help you if you want it: we can help you with picking a topic, or with finalizing a topic. To get help, just call (708) 258-9111 and ask to speak to someone from the 2025 Curriculum Committee. Or leave a number, and someone will call you.

The NGCRC supplies the following equipment to all training rooms and thus to all presenters: an LCD or data projector. We do not supply laptop computers. You must bring your own laptop to connect to the LCD projector. The NGCRC also supplies a screen, work or equipment table, a lecturn, and a power strip, and an external speaker if you need it (we like to use Bose Soundocks, but we have other models). Overhead projectors have not been asked for for years. We can sometimes help with exotic technology requests, but again, you need to first personally inquire with us. We have a NGCRC Tech Team on the premises at the conference at all times to assist presenters with the use of standared presentation-related equipment (LCD projectors, loud speakers, etc).

If you need audio equipment, we have an assortment of computer speakers that can be checked out of the Goodwill Ambassador's Equipment Room, you will need to check in with them when you first arrive at the conference. Some audio equipment like the large and powerful speakers (we have a few of the Bose Sound Dock speakers, has connector to iPod or iPhone) need to be reserved at the Equipment Room if you want it set up in advance in your room, so check in with them Sunday evening or Monday morning. If you need to buy your own connector cables or anything for your laptop there is a BestBuy right across the street from the conference hotel. You need to go to the equipment room as soon as you get to the conference to check in with them if you want any sound system or speakers. Feel free to bring your own speakers even your own LCD or data projector if you like.

You can also get help with “creative ideas” for a new session proposal. We already know what some of the “need areas are”, so you can get good feedback and counseling from the NGCRC on the type of session that will be “popular” and well attended in 2025. We can do this interactively with you on the phone, again, just call (708) 258-9111 and ask to speak to someone from the 2025 Curriculum Committee. Or leave a number, and someone will call you. You will find more information about the call for presenters below. Note: The call for presenters will likely end early this year, as we had over N = 100 different sessions in the 2024 program. So act now if you are interested. Our goal is to have a larger than noral number of sessions for the 2025 program, and maybe your session will be part of this history making event.

Cordially,

George W. Knox, Ph.D.

Executive Director

NGCRC

- - -

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS FOR THE 2025 NGCRC 28th GANG SPECIALIST TRAINING CONFERENCE:

This is an official invitation for you to be a presenter at the 2025 NGCRC 28th Gang Specialist Training Conference to be held in Chicago, August 4, 2025 thru August 6, 2025 at the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel, 909 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL. This invitation is subject to withdrawal and deletion from this website page listing once the curriculum is full and finalized (e.g., there might no longer be any room for new presenters). But at this date, we encourage anyone to submit a new sesion proposal. All the information you need is provided here.

You want to act quickly on this invitation to become a presenter at the 2025 NGCRC conference. We are planning on some new and exciting events this year. You want to become a part of this exciting 2025 Conference. Please note, though, that no financial incentives of any kind (including waiver of registration fees) can be offered. Presenters will be expected to be registered for the conference, unless special arrangements are made.

You are cordially invited to submit a session proposal for the 2025 NGCRC gang training conference. You are allowed to submit and present more than one proposal.

The presentations may vary in length from a minimum of one hour to a maximum of three hours. Most sessions are one or two hours in length. You will need to select a title that accurately reflects what people will learn in the session; you need to specify how long the session will last in duration; you need to decide which “tracks” your session will give credit for; you need to provide a short “abstract” or description of what the session will cover; and you need to provide a short "bio" about yourself.

The "Session Proposal Form" is provided below for your use. Please follow that as a template or guideline. Feel free to call if you have questions (call 708-258-9111, just ask to speak with someone from the 2025 Curriculum Committee).

If there was a topic you wanted to consider for a session, but you needed some information or clarification: then again, you are encouraged to call any time in this regard ---- for example, just to “run an idea” up the flag pole, would a certain topic be useful at the conference, etc. While the NGCRC is very good at nurturing new presenters, we are not able to offer you any type of financial assistance. Note: The call for presenters will end shortly.

Here is some good advice to anyone interested in being a presenter at the NGCRC Conference: make sure that the content of your session corresponds to the title of your session. There is an evaluation form that all attendees complete, and they are asked to evaluation and provide a rating of between zero "0" (not effective) to ten "10" (very effective) as a range of how effective the speaker was. So do not subject yourself or the NGCRC to any potential criticism for having a misleading session title. The best way to avoid such a potential criticism is once you start your power point presentation, right after the title page, your second page of the power point presentation should be an outline of what is actually covered in your session. You might also created a page for what is not covered in your session, in both cases at the start up of your session. This way, if someone is looking or shopping for a specific issue, they have time to get up and leave right away and go to a different session. There are always 7 or 8 or more sessions going on at once.

Your proposal(s) will be evaluated by the 2025 Curriculum Committee. We are usually able to get back to you with a decision in ten (10) days. You can use the form below or a facsimile of this form to submit your session proposal.

Call for Presenters:

2025 NGCRC Conference Session Proposal Form

(Worksheet and Outline)

Title of Your Session:_________________________________________________________

Duration of Your Session in Hours:_______________ hours

Any restrictions on who can attend? ___Yes ___No (if Yes, who do you want to restrict this to___________)

What Track(s) Will This Session Fit Into?_________________________________________

Abstract (describe what people will learn in your session, about 100-150 words)

__________________________________________________________________________

Bio (describe your credentials, achievements, 100-150 words)

___________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

Provide a cover letter that gives your full name, title, organizational affiliation, and complete mailing address and contact information (phone, fax, email, etc). You are encouraged to attach a curriculum vita or resume to indicate your education and occupational achievements. Your presentation is expected to be prepared in advance as a formal power point type of presentation, ideally with handouts you provide. It is imporant that you understand that a one hour course gives you only 55 minutes of talk time, because using the "Golden Rule" of NGCRC Presenters, you need to be leaving the room at minute 56 allowing minutes 56-60 for the transition and set-up of the next presenter entering the training room. So prepare a power point that times out at about 55 minutes in length. Do not assume you have internet access in the classroom.

Please submit your session proposal soon, call if you have any questions. Fax it to: (708) 258-9546 and then mail it to make sure we get it: NGCRC, 2025 Curriculum Committee, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. Warning: The call for presenters will close early this year. It closed early in 2024.

Here is one sample of a session from a previous NGCRC conference, note the format has a “gang” issue in the title; gives a duration; specifies what tracks the session will be useful for (feel free to call about this if you need help: call 708-258-9111, just say you want to talk to someone from the Curriculum Committee).

"Gangs and Extremists in the American Military: A Current Assessment", by Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, CPP, Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, University of Detroit Mercy, Detroit, MI.

Duration: Two (2) hours

Session Credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs in the Military.

Abstract

Gang member and extremist infiltration of American occupations now includes legitimate businesses/corporations as well as military careers. Gang life on many military installations is now common as gang members move with parents in the military from place to place helping disseminate gang culture. Some so-called super gangs (e.g., Gangster Disciples) encourage military ties for gaining access to weapons and training. This security concern with gangs in the American workplace and military is legitimate given present day terrorist linkages. Based on a recent survey of gang members and extremists from jail locations we will examine the main types of occupations/busineses/military specialties that they are seeking out in 2022. This segment will seek to enlighten security and law enforcement professionals on the emergent threats posed by street gangs and extremist groups who are increasingly entering mainstream occupations and the armed services.

Bio

Dr. Michael J. Witkowski, CPP is a nationally known security litigation expert with many years experience in handling civil litigation relating to street gangs. He has researched gang activity in a variety of venues including: public housing, casinos, fast-food restaurants, apartment complexes, concerts, shopping centers, and convenience stores. He is an author several published articles of research on gang/hategroups in sensitive employment sectors (e.g., security/military). He is an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and administers the Graduate Program in Security Administration at the University of Detroit Mercy. He teaches courses in Juvenile Justice and Gangs and Deviant Social Groups and is a regular presenter to the Detroit Police 80 Hour Crime Prevention School. He is also a member of the Crime Prevention Association of Michigan (CPAM).

THE NGCRC IS NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE ANY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OF ANY KIND TO PRESENTERS:

This is a longstanding policy, but needs to be formally declared in writing when dealing with the issue of invitations for presentations. Please be advised that the NGCRC is not able to provide any financial assistance of any kind to presenters. The NGCRC has not asked for any government subsidy, and thus no funding is available to assist presenters along these lines. The NGCRC treasures the intellectual freedom it has in addressing the kinds of issues it addresses, and it may not be able to offer some of its curriculum features with government subsidies or there could be a disadvantageous expectation from government funding that relates to our current “independence”. The NGCRC by making this invitation for session proposals specifically declares that this it is not able to provide any kind of financial assistance, subsidy, allowance, fee, honorarium, per diem, travel, or reimbursement of expenses, etc for persons making presentations.

TOPICS WE REALLY NEED PRESENTERS FOR:

"Building Trust Between Actors in a Gang Violence Reduction Strategy"

"The Use of Deconfliction Channels in the Prevention of Gang Violence"

"Gang and Chinese Organized Crime Involvement in Crime and Violence on Marijuana Farms: The Recent Examples Highlighted by NBC including Homicide in Oklahoma and California"

"Resolving Issues About the Identification of Gang Members and the Maintenance of Confidential Investigatory Gang Digital/Database Files"

"The Dynamics of Hybrid Gangs: How They Evolve and Develop"

"Brady and Massiah Training for Jail Staff"

"Victim Services for Communities Under Attack From Armed Gangs"

"Victimology Outreach in Gang Homicide Cases"

"Gang and Organized Crime Activity on the Dark Web: Advanced Internet Investigation"

"Developing Ways to Treat PTSD For Staff Exposed to Gang Violence"

"Examples of Gang Crime Investigation/Prosecution of Hybrid Gangs"

"Open Source Gang Investigation"

"Review of the Money Laundering Apps Used by Gangs and OC: CashApp, Venmo, Paypal, Zelle, World Remit, OFX, TransferWise, Xe, CurrenciesDirect, HiFX, Remtly"

"How To 'Gang Proof' the School Zones in Your Jurisdiction".

"History of Explosive Device Incidents With Threat Groups: Extremist/Hate Groups, Street Gangs, Motorcycle Gangs, Cartels, and Organized Crime"

“How to Achieve Better Community Relations and Still Achieve Effective Gang Enforcement”.

"Starting a Gang Victim Support Group in Your Community"

"How to Achieve Pure Primary Gang Prevention in the School".

"Achieving Gang Prevention for Tomorrow by Targetting Gang Leadership Today".

"Zero to Low Cost Gang Prevention and Intervention Program Services You Can Offer in Your Jurisdiction".

“How to Start a Gang Court in Your County”.

"Innovative Techniques for Interviewing Gang Members and Gang Associates".

"What We Really Need for Gang Prevention Laws in the Next Decade"

"The Use of the Polygraph in Gang Interviews/Debriefings".

"What We Really Need for Gang Investigation Skills in the Next Decade"

"How to Start a New Gang Dissociation Program in Your Correctional Facility".

"How the Federal Procurement Process Works for Getting Federal Grants and Funding for Your Gang Prevention/Intervention Program: NIJ, OJJDP and Others"

"New Technology to Fight the War Against Gang Violence".

"Developing Legislation to Require the Use of Small Arms Ballistic Projectile Trace Taggants to Aid the Investigation of Gun Violence in the USA".

"Dealing With Gangs on the Reservation"

"Gang Involvement in Credit Card Fraud"

"Gang Involvement in Identity Theft"

"An Analysis of Native American Gangs" .

"Best Practices for Counseling Gang Crime Victims"

“The Anatomy of a Gang Prosecution: From Crime Scene to Final Appeals and Parole Hearings”

"Advanced Gang Identification About Crips"

"Advanced Gang Identification for Blood Gangs".

"Recent Developments in Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs".

"How to Investigate Social Media Usage by Gang Members"

"New Laws that We Really Need for Gang Prosecution in the Next Decade"

"How to Monitor the Internet Sites Related to Your Community That May Have Gang Shout Outs and Gang-Related Activity (Recruiting, Gang Message Boards, etc)"

"New Policies/Procedures We Need in Corrections to Deal More Effectively With Gangs/STG in the Next 10 years".

"Things that Work and Don't Work in Dealing With Gang Members in Juvenile Correctional Facilities"

"How to Effectively Use Anonymous Cash Rewards for Solving Cold Case Gang-Related Crimes".

"New Policies/Procedures We Need in K-12 Public Schools to Deal More Effectively With Gangs in the Next 10 Years".

"How to Start a New Faith-Based Gang Prevention/Intervention in Your City".

"How to Increase Respect for the Law Among At-Risk Youths and Gang Members"

"How to Implement a Gang Victim Assistance Program"

"Building Trust in Our Communities: Overcoming the Stop Snitching Gang Distrust Problem"

"How to Increase Ethnic, Racial and Cross-Cultural Tolerance Within a Gang or At-Risk Population"

"Gangs and Organized Crime Involvement in the Sale of Body Parts"

"Gang Involvement in Human Trafficking"

"The Use of Drone Technology in Gang Investigation"

"Factors in Mitigation: The Role of the Mitigation Consultant in Gang Criminal Cases".

"The Gangs in Haiti and Jamaica"

- - - -

The 2025 NGCRC 28th International Gang Specialist

Training Conference (Aug. 4 - August 6, 2025):

A Look at the Presenters

TBA

- - - - - -

Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2023 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2023 Twenty Third NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during July 31 thru August 2, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois at the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel, 909 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated over time as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2023 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. In the 2023 cohort some 61.4 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 38.6 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

So a little over half of the attendees in 2023 had no prior training on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2023 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 96.7 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2023 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2023 Evaluation Form asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 74.0 percent of those attending the 2023 conference did so for the first time. About a fourth (26%) of those who attended the 2023 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2023 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 85.9 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2023 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the 2024 NGCRC 27th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 95.2 percent of those who attended the 2023 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2024 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

Three separate evaluation questions addressed the issue of “networking” because this is always an important “added benefit” of any training, and it becomes particularly valuable as a resource when dealing with gang problems.

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2023 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 93.8 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2023 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 91.4 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that a very high level of success was achieved regarding the goal of networking at the 2023 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 61.2 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events. There were five (5) different social networking receptions available free to attendees at the 2023 NGCRC training conference.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

The rating system used by the NGCRC to evaluate the performance of the trainers and presenters, as well as its own operations, utilizes a “scale” of values from an absolute low value of “zero” to indicate the low extreme of “not satisfied” to an absolute high value of ten (10) to indicate the high extreme of “very satisfied”. Thus, the “score” in such cases is easy to interpret: the higher the score, the higher the level of satisfaction.

The “mean score” is what is used to calculate an overall score for performance. The mean is the arithmetic mean, a measure of central tendency in the data, and it is calculated by means of an SPSS analysis. SPSS is a statistical software package widely used in the social sciences and criminology.

The evaluation form included the following question measuring the quality of materials: “How satisfied were you with the quality of the take home training materials provided to you?”. Each participant is provided with a “take home goody bag” that contains various printed training materials for future use. The results indicated a mean score of 8.04 on a zero to 10 point scale.

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 7.96 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that almost half of those who attended, or 60.4 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

MANY ATTENDED AN EVENING CHICAGO CUBS BASEBALL GAME

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you attend any of the Cubs Baseball Social Networking Events”? There were two such events, one for Monday, and one for Tuesday. The results from the Evaluation Form data analysis show that 53.7 percent indicated participating in this popular event.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 8.96 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support. Scoring near or above a score of 9.0 on a zero to 10 scale is an “A” in anyone’s book.

HOURS OF TRAINING COMPLETED USING THE NGCRC’S “VIDEO-PAGE” TRAINING OPTION

The evaluation form asked “how many training hours did you complete on the VideoPage.html video training program”? About half of the sample (53.9 percent) indicated on their evaluation forms that they had completed zero hours our training in 2023 using the videopage. Thus, just under a half (46.1%) actually used it by completing one or more hours of training using the videopage. The mean score was 4.93 hours completed using the video-page option.

HOURS OF TRAINING COMPLETED ON-SITE AT THE HOTEL LOCATION

The evaluation form asked “how many hours of training did you complete on-site during 7-31 / 8-2 of 2023?”. The results showed a range in values from as low as eight to a high of 36 hours. This is advertised as a 24 hour training program for the 8 to 5 classroom training. But there is also field training, early bird wake up sessions, lunch sessions, evening sessions, tours, and events. If you were to attend it all, it would be easily 36 or higher. The mean score for hours completed on-site location was 21.6 hours.

MOST STAYED AT THE OFFICIAL CONFERENCE HOTEL

The evaluation form also included the question “Did you stay at the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel”? The results show that most (82%) did in fact stay at the Westin. And they gave it high satisfaction rating (8.48 mean score on a zero to ten rating system).

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2023 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (65.4%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 29 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 94.4 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.59 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2023 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

- - - - -

Quotes from those who attended the 2023 NGCRC Gang Training Conference in Chicago July 31 - August 2, 2023:

Last Updated: 10-23-2023

“Very good information and great networking”, MarQuita Fabor, Strategic Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“The different variety of training courses”, Det. Ryan Reyes, Broward Sheriff’s Office, Fort Lauderdale, FL.

“This conference has taught me skills I can actually use right now to help young gang involved youth and those at risk of joining”, Raymundo Galarza, School Social Worker, Schaumburg, IL.

“This was my first time at the conference and I had a great experience. The NGCRC staff and speakers were very educated, knowledgeable and kind during the conference”, Zenaida Francois, Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office, Tampa, FL.

“The presenters were amazing and personalities are all one a kind. Great talent and experience combined. Also slides were straight to the point”, Juan Maldonado, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“A good variety of training classes. The content of training to include technological advancements in investigations”, Christine Bouffard, Federal Bureau of Prisons, Chicago, IL.

“There are people here that care about gang violence and are passionate about the materials that they teach. I met several instructors that seemed to be very interested in what they taught”, Lt. Adam Dawson, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“Very diverse group of presenters with so many different perspectives and good tips and information”, Darious Lydell Pitt, Program Coordinator, Henderson-Vance Recreation + Parks, Henderson, NC.

“Networking with professionals across the country. Academic setting with Ph.D./masters level presenters. Snacks, coffee. Off-site visits games and detention center”, Christopher Lemont Roberts, Youth + Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator, Roanoke, VA.

“The variety of classes and diversity of presenters and attendees to network with”, James Zolnai, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“Variety and quantity of class selection was very unique and beneficial. Hearing similarities and difference from other agencies all over the country and even the world”, Dalton Beddow, Special Agent, Vermillion Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Danville, IL.

“The ability to network with top professionals in the field. They are experts in the field and have already been where my agency is hoping to go”, Donald Perdue, Coshocton County Sheriffs Office, Coshocton, OH.

“I was able to network and meet new people from other states and hear how their programs work”, Denise Robertson, Life Coach, Portland OIC, Portland, OR.

“Loved being able to start video training early and having the flexibility to attend different classes”, Det. Serena Stanbury, Broward Sheriffs Office, Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

“The networking opportunities are unmatched at the NGCRC”, Det. Zac Eastburn, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“I learned a lot and everyone was so well welcoming”, John Busch, Violence Interrupter, Renounce Denounce Gang Intervention Program, Cleveland, OH.

“The amount of information given that I can take back to my jail will help our department ten fold. Thank you”, Joseph Coryell, Morgan County Sheriffs Dept., Martinsville, IN.

“Never in your wildest dreams could you imagine a better gang conference. I was absolutely enchanted to attend. The conference has a big reputation and will never go out of style. The instructors are absolute master minds. This conference hits different than any other conference I’ve ever attended. I will remember this training forever and always. I’d love to begin again next year. Until then. I will remember it all too well”, Kadin Brown, District Attorneys Office, York, PA.

“It was excellent. It was informal, but relevant. This conference is imperative to the betterment of our societies, and our world, as together we collaborate to address gang violence”, Lynn O. Landy, Ministry of National Security, Hamilton, Bermuda.

“The knowledge from each instructor was amazing. I brought something away from each session that I can use on the job daily”, Sgt. David Batastini, Muscogee County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, GA.

“Networking is incredible. Great opportunity to compare school based programs”, Don English, Director, Children Deserve Success, San Bernardino, CA.

“The knowledge of the presenters and variety of topics to choose from. The flexibility of class times (early riser) outside of normal hours. Also nice to have the experience of my first ever cubs game”, Kaera Watson, Rockford Police Dept., Rockford, IL.

“The networking was amazing! Made lots of new friends”, Gregory Countryman Sr.”, Sheriff, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Department, Columbus, GA.

“I took in great information and learned a new skill set of observation”, Monique Chatman, Rise Up Rochester, Inc., Rochester, NY.

“There was a wide variety of instructors with various backgrounds which provides diversity. The networking is invaluable. The materials and handouts are wonderful tools I can take with me back to Pennsylvania to adapt and improve my own methodologies”, Virginia Hobbs, York County District Attorneys Office, York, PA.

“Everyone was extremely friendly and helpful, I will definitely come back”, Sara Rivera, Assistant State’s Attorney, Office of the State Attorney 17^th Judicial District, Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

“I love all the information that I was able to get in one place. The networking and the courses”, Jasmine Burns, Strategic Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Instructors are very professional and down to earth”, Marc Barag, Chester City Police Department, Chester, PA.

“Todd Negola sessions. He is an informative speaker that keeps his audience engaged”, Bobby Kelso, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“Staff was friendly and helpful and the presenters were knowledgeable in their fields”, Det. Vincent J. Port, Delaware County Criminal Investigation Division, Media, PA.

“All of the sessions were informative and provided ideas or ways to implement programs in the target populations I cover or ways to properly investigate crimes”, Jalicia Wyatt, Arkansas County Juvenile Officer, Stuttgart, AR.

“All the presenters and staff were very helpful and eager to answer questions”, Jeffrey Wright, Desoto County Sheriffs Department, Hernando, MS.

“The networking with gang investigators and analyst was very beneficial”, Michael O’Keefe, Investigator, Muscogee County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, GA.

“Meeting different organizations and people around the world doing the same”, Stephan Robinson, Outreach, Office for Safe + Healthy Neighborhoods, Louisville, KY.

“Very well organized, expert presenters with multiple presentations with different content”, Lisa Daswani, GIVE Case Manager, Pathstone Corporation, Rochester, NY.

A lot of what I learned is directly applicable to what I do and I feel confident that I can use what I learned”, Cara Lipscomb, Probation Officer, U.S. District Court, Cincinnati, OH.

“This is the only conference where you can get this level of in person information from so many on the job experts from the entire country”, John Hamme, Chief Deputy Prosecutor, York County District Attorney’s Office, York, PA.

“This is wonderful and so much knowledge to share. I will take this back to Charlotte, NC and let my agency know this is very much needed”, Tonya L. Smith, Officer, Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office, Charlotte, NC..

“I found the variety of classes taught by law enforcement practitioners to be very interesting and useful”, Hunter Kennedy, Officer, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“Good instructors and many class options that actually teach new information”, Matt Reyes, Special Agent, ATF, Fort Lauderdale, FL.

“The variety of classes provided a different approach and understanding to combat and prevent gang violence”, Gaysha Warren, Memphis Police Department, Memphis, TN.

“Love the many options for presentations and having multiple times to observe”, Leeana Brown, Chief of Staff, 20^th Judicial District, 2^nd Division - Juvenile, Conway, AR.

“Very knowledgeable people”, Keyvio Owens, Rise Up Rochester, Inc., Rochester, NY.

“The presenters were fantastic and very knowledgeable. The location was very nice with good food near by. Very well organized once I figured out how it works. Presenters freely gave contact info for further questions”, Alex Leffler, Juvenile Probation Officer, Jackson County Community Justice, Medford, OR.

“A lot of valuable information received, and motivated, quality speakers”, Shawn Gruber, Columbus Division of Police, Columbus, OH.

“Ample information regarding present issues of community approach when it comes to gang prevention/intervention”, Alvis Williams, Chief Training Officer + Gang Consultant, Pathfinders Resources, Greensboro, NC.

“I always enjoy the variety of topics, and classes taught by those who have successfully done the job and are passing on new ideas as well as hurdles they have overcome. I also like the increased topics on hybrids because gangs are evolving. That and social media”, Steve Stechschulte, Lima Police Department, Lima, OH.

“All the networking information shared”, Kenneth Ortiz, River Valley Detention Center, Joliet, IL.

“Made some great connections! Thank you”, Grant Shostak, Lindenwood University, St. Charles, MO.

“The classes are excellent. This a our 3^rd year attending. The East Baton Rouge Sheriffs office Intelligence unit has improved in our strategies and objectives in reference to gang investigations. Thank you to all the staff at NGCRC”, Captain Darryl Michelli, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriffs Office, Baton Rouge, LA.

“This has been the most informative conference I have been to yet. The variety of topics covered has been extremely helpful. The panel with former gang members was the most eye opening panel I have ever attended”, Alex Stone, Assistant District Attorney, Newton County District Attorney’s Office, Covington, GA.

“The ability to grow through networking abundantly available at this gang conference. If you have a chance to attend take it. You will grow through experience”, Richard High Jr., Juvenile Probation Officer, Mississippi County, Blythesville, AR.

“All info on the cartels was really great”, Matt Baker, Gang Outreach Coordinator, Lincoln Police Department, Lincoln, NE.

“Lots of great lecturers with a wealth of knowledge. The conference was very well organized”, Monica Skotnicky, PsyD, Clinical Psychologist, River Valley Detention Center, Joliet, IL.

“I love how the presenters were all very informative and took the time to answer questions. I loved the training”, Shamell Allah, City of Rochester, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“I love that this conference focuses on using “real world, real workers” in the field of gangs”, Sharon Mashburn, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“Diverse selection to choose from, and the presenters knowledge”, J.D. Dubes, Logansport Community School Corp., Logansport, IN.

“Excellent selection of courses. I liked being able to attend classes outside of my training track”, Ryan Watts, Ingham County Sheriffs Office, Mason, MI.

“Great speakers”, Harley Wessner, Rockford Police Department, Rockford, IL.

“Great presentations, networking, so amazing to meet all the great people who make a difference with our young people at risk”, Tamika Miller, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“Wealth of knowledge: Diverse knowledge”, Thayton Hamlin, Rochester Office of Violence Prevention, Rochester, NY.

“There are very talented presenters and students at this conference”, Det. Sgt. Kevin Sepulveda, Joliet Police Department, Joliet, IL.

“I liked how engaging the presenters were and the activities were useful to transfer to my kids at work”, Jahir Holmes, Abraxas, Chambersburg, PA.

“Great speakers, great classes, and great experience!”, Det. Dillon Russell, Broward County Sheriff’s Department, Fort Lauderdale, FL.

“Instructors were knowledgeable with years of experience”, Keith Thome, Corrections Deputy, Macomb County Sheriff’s Dept., Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Being able to meet and network with other agencies”, Lawrence Duda, Corrections Deputy, Macomb County Sheriff’s Dept., Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Networking opportunities and leaving with new information to apply”, Tasha Lewis, Clinician, Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Health, Pine Bluff, AR.

“Getting to meet and network with different people”, Darious Glover, Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center, Chicago, IL.

“Great networking opportunities”, Chukwumeka Okonmah, Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center, Chicago, IL.

“All teachers did a wonderful job”, Lt. Cedric Holton, Muscogee County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, GA.

“The training was great”, Greg Countryman Jr., Investigator, Muscogee County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, GA.

“Networking, a lot of great info, meeting people from all over the country including Canada”, Sharon Larson, Pasadena City College - CORE, Pasadena, CA.

“Large variety of classes”, Det. Garrett Steele, Broward Sheriff Office, Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

“Very friendly, great city”, James MacIntosh, Investigator, Collingdale Police Department, Collingdale, PA.

“The variety of training”, Terrance McCutchen, Violence Prevention Program Coordinator, Rochester, NY.

“I was impressed with the variety and wide range of courses”, Det. Sgt. Shawn Hauck, Syracuse Police Department, Syracuse, NY.

“Comfortable and conducive learning environment”, Brandi L. Shortley, Training Coordinator, River Valley Detention Center, Joliet, IL.

“Great location; knowledgeable presenters with variety of backgrounds”, Alex Salcedo, Investigator, Lincoln Police Department, Lincoln, NE.

“Variety of topics with variety of input from other agencies”, Dustin Lind, Investigator, Lincoln Police Department, Lincoln, NE.

“Very informative. All of the presenters were more than knowledgeable”, Tony Gilkey, U.S. Probation Officer, Lexington, KY.

“Networking”, Julie Johnson, Investigator, Muscogee County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, GA.

“Good info”, Ivan Rome, Investigator, Muscogee County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, GA.

“Networking”, Justin Morris, CEO, Untrapped Ministries, Rochester, NY.

“Great presenters, networking”, Mark Burchell, U.S. Probation Office, Detroit, MI.

“Knowledge and passion of the presenters”, Timothy Garron, Chester City Police Department, Chester, PA.

“I was able to learn from individuals I would have not previously met”, Adolfo Angel Garcia, Pasadena City College - CORE, Pasadena, CA.

“Good presenters, all were motivated and engaged with the class”, Nathan Tripp, Columbus Division of Police, Columbus, OH.

“The amount of sessions to choose from”, Det. Michael Diaz, Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office, Tampa, FL.

“Love learning new things”, Christine Agueros, Ingham County Sheriffs Office, Mason, MI.

“How helpful the staff was and very good customer service”, Lorenzo Streeter, City of Rochester, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“The great variety of instructors and their passion for what they do”, Makenzie Greer, Ingham County Sheriffs Office, Mason, MI.

“All was great”, Det. Gary Hensler, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“A variety of content and perspectives”, Devin Kiper, Strategic Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Networking and the Cubs game”, Roy Moore, Co-Director, Community Care Team, Portland OIC/P.O.I.C., Portland, OR.

“Great learning topic. Instructors were very informative on the topic they taught”, Andrew Finn, St. Joseph County Jail, South Bend, IN.

“A lot of good information”, Larry Slayton, Director of Youth Development, Pathfinders Resources, Greensboro, NC.

“A lot of real world connection was made. All very applicable info to job and valuable in the real world”, Jayden Betances, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“Great opportunity to learn and connect with those in the field”, Bryan Harris, Institutional Case Manager, Mandan, ND.

“Excellent instructors. Knowledgeable instructors. Impressively credentialed”, Det. Kola Oldsunde, Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, Brooklyn, NY.

“I enjoyed the variety of presentations/presenters”, Makenzie Williams, University Student, Hillsboro, MO.

“The people”, Pricila Avila, University Student, Greenwood, MO.

“Networking with others around the country”, Det. Matthew Wallace, Baton Rouge Police Department, Baton Rouge, LA.

“Being able to a different perspective from other LEOs”, Det. Troy Lawrence, Jr., Baton Rouge Police Department, Baton Rouge, LA.

“I enjoyed having different options to choose form each day”, Det. Pete Delatorre, Richmond Hill Police Department, Richmond Hill, GA.

“The wide variety of classes from the experts in their area is amazing. The hardest part is choose between ther and many choices in classes”, Michael Tabarrok, Assistant Attorney General, Georgia Office of the Attorney General, Albany, GA.

“I thought that some of the classes that were added this year were very good and useful”, Brett Grosmann, Desoto County Sheriffs Department, Hernando, MS.

“I love it. Great experience”, Manuel Rosario, City of Rochester, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“The experience was awesome. I learned a lot of new things this week”, Dejuan Jones, Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office, Charlotte, NC.

“ I enjoyed the overall experience of the conference. I liked that there were several choices in regard to topics. The Westin was a great location and most rooms were spacious. Thanks for all the snacks! I liked that you had a variety to choose from. I liked the variety of presenters from different backgrounds”, Edna Robinson, Rochester City School District, Rochester, NY.

“The diverse subjects”, Det. Zachary Gould, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The opportunity to meet and discuss with other instructors/presenters”, Andrew Bain, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA.

“Very knowledgeable people”, Master Glover, Rise Up Rochester, Inc., Rochester, NY.

“Communicating with other agencies and their roles within their job and authority”, Nicole Heyward, Suffolk Police Department, Suffolk, VA.

“Networking”, Roderick T. Person, Special Ops Officer, Suffolk Police Department, Suffolk, VA.

“All the presenters and information was great”, Ricky Pickens, Professional Gang Intervention Specialist, Pasadena, CA.

“Awesome meeting people from all over the country”, Kaitlyn Boowsma, Delaware County Indiana Probation, Muncie, IN.

“Networking”, Patrick R. Cook, Douglas County District Attorney, Douglasville, GA.

“I enjoyed the conference. Always eager to learn new ideas”, Wanda Ridgeway, Rise Up Rochester, Inc., Rochester, NY.

“The knowledge I left with”, Luis Perez, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“The networking for sure”, Tyler Starkey, Danville Police Department, Danville, IL.

“A lot of good material and great classes. Great city to have conference in”, Sgt. Demetrius Battle, Columbus Police Department, Columbus, GA.

“Very good training”, James Harris, Federal Bureau of Prisons, Chicago, IL.

“Learned a lot of great info. Speakers were happy to answer questions”, Demelza Turner, Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office, Tampa, FL.

“Atmosphere and incentives”, Aaron Bush, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“It was great to hear all the research and personal experiences working with gangs”, Sammantha Douglas, Delaware County Indiana Adult Probation, Muncie, IN.

“The amount of different classes that are available. The receptions for different groups”, Michael Cheeseman, Staff Development Officer, Youth Correctional Center, Mandan, ND.

“It was super helpful and insightful”, Carlos R. Gonzalez, Pasadena City College, Pasadena, CA.

“Networking”, Nicole Marcum, Strategic Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Lots of shared knowledge”, Robert Tyborski, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

“Variety of courses, courtesy of founder and staff, and the diverse pool of gang specialists”, Michael A. Garner, Louisiana State Police, Houma, LA.

“The diversity of the classes and instructors allowed me to see things from a different perspective than what I’m accustomed to”, Idella Williams, Lafayette Parish Sheriffs Office, Lafayette, LA.

“It was extremely enlightening and encouraging to be around like minded individuals”, Cadre Smith, Ministry of National Security, Hamilton, Bermuda.

“Search warrants”, Det. Javon Burnett, Lauderhill police Department, Lauderhill, FL.

“Working together resolves all problems”, Larry Parker Jr., Chief Deputy, Muscogee County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, GA.

“Many classes to choose from”, Hannah Swarner, West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriffs Office, Port Allen, LA.

“Networking. Learning. Exposed to history/city of Chicago”, Lee Vaugh Morris, Outreach Specialist, Office for Safe + Healthy Neighborhoods, Louisville, KY.

“Learning experience”, Carter Marcus, Master Police Officer, Suffolk Police Department, Suffolk, VA.

“Lots of class options to choose from”, Penny Hestand, Strategic Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“The information and networking throughout the conference”, Brandon Henning, Aurora Police Department, Aurora, IL.

“The networking”, Derek Stoch, Aurora Police Department, Aurora, IL.

“I learned a lot”, Tessie Shumate, Analyst, East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office, Baton Rouge, LA.

“I liked the number of different sessions available”, Molly Schroering, Tactical Crime Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Networking. Opportunity to expand your base. Learning how other city is doing the work”, Kenneth Boyd, Outreach Supervisor, Office for Safe + Effective Neighborhoods, Louisville, KY.

“Networking and Cubs game”, Mike Hollandsworth, Trooper, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The great number of options available”, Curt A. Repsis, Will County Sheriffs Office, Joliet, IL.

“Exposure to different regions and ideas”, Det. Marc Deshaies, Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD), Fort Wayne, IN.

“Very Informative”, Det. John J. Murray Jr., Blue Island Police Department, Blue Island, IL.

“Very good hospitality and well put together”, Carl Rucker, Program Manager, Portland OIC, Portland, OR.

“Hearing other peoples’ experiences in their cities connecting with people. Learning more about the youth”, Faith Dilworth, City of Rochester, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

- - - -

Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2022 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2022 Twenty Third NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 1-3, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois at the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel, 909 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated over time as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2022 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2022 some 57.6 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 42.4 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

So a little over half of the attendees in 2022 had no prior training on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2022 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 98 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2022 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2022 Evaluation Form asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 70.3 percent of those attending the 2022 conference did so for the first time. In other words, just under a third (some 29.7 percent) of those who attended the 2022 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2022 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 89 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2022 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the 2023 NGCRC 26th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 98.3 percent of those who attended the 2022 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2023 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2022 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 93.7 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2022 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 95.8 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that a very high level of success was achieved regarding the goal of networking at the 2022 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 66 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events. There were five (5) different social networking receptions available free to attendees at the 2022 NGCRC training conference.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 8.37 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that almost half of those who attended, or 58.6 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

MANY ATTENDED AN EVENING WHITE SOX BASEBALL GAME

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you attend the White Sox Baseball Networking Event on Tuesday night”? The results from the Evaluation Form data analysis show that 38.8 percent indicated participating in this popular event.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 9.02 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support. Scoring a 9.04 on a zero to 10 scale is an “A” in anyone’s book.

HOURS OF TRAINING COMPLETED USING THE NGCRC’S “VIDEO-PAGE” TRAINING OPTION

The evaluation form asked “how many training hours did you complete on the VideoPage.html video training program”? The range of scores varied between a low of zero hours for about half of the participants (54.2%), to a high of 28.5 hours. The mean score was 4.07 hours completed using the video-page option.

HOURS OF TRAINING COMPLETED ON-SITE AT THE HOTEL LOCATION

The evaluation form asked “how many hours of training did you complete on-site during 7-31 / 8-3 of 2022?”. The results showed a range in values from as low as eight to a high of 30.5 hours. The mean score for hours completed on-site location was 22.3 hours.

MOST STAYED AT THE OFFICIAL CONFERENCE HOTEL

The evaluation form also included the question “Did you stay at the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel”? The results show that most (83.1%) did in fact stay at the Westin. And they gave it high satisfaction ratings (8.52 mean score on a zero to ten rating system).

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2022 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (66.7%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 28.5 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 95.2 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.61 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2022 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

What's New: Qualitative Evaluation Research Results Now Available from the 2022 Conference

The qualitative evaluation research results are now available from the 2022 NGCRC training conference. See the incredible variety of narriative comments from those who attended the 2022 NGCRC conference in Chicago.

Quotes from those who attended the 2022 NGCRC Training Conference:

“Knowledgeable instructors. Very organized. Friendly staff. Great OMG classes”, Jason Osgood, Investigator, New Hampshire Department of Corrections, Berlin, NH.

“Best gang training in the nation. Received a lot of knowledge and resources. Would love to bring more departments to attend future NGCRC!”, Christal Hudgins, Training Coordinator, Hualapai Juvenile Detention and Rehabilitation Center, Peach Springs, AZ..

“The friendly staff, having multi-classes to attend. The various types of class and presenters gave us the ability to learn more and bring that information to out agencies. I am really glad I attended the conference and I’ll definitely be back next year”, B.A. Batiste, Gang Analyst, Louisiana State Police, Baton Rouge, LA.

“Extremely knowledgeable instructors. Very welcoming staff, snack and drinks always stocked. Overall very organized and a great environment for networking opportunities”, Sean Sinnott, Investigator, Cayce Police Department, Cayce, SC.

“I loved the diversity in backgrounds with education, culture, race etc. Networking was very beneficial. Offered a wide range of content!”, Aja Ellington, Community Resources Coordinator, Goodwill Industries, South Bend, IN.

“I loved the amount of sessions to choose from, and the flexibility to build your own schedule; breaks. I also appreciated the presenters being involved. We got to speak to and interact with them consistently which is excellent. Also seeing them in other sessions is very cool also. Instructions were very detailed, so it was easy to follow. The raffles/prizes were fun. Snacks provided were helpful. I think including more healthy options (trail mix) would lend to a more inclusive feel”, Kelli Austin, GVI Community Outreach Worker, Goodwill Industries, South Bend, IN.

“Very good information. A good mixture of direct service, research, law enforcement, prosecution helped us to look at both sides of the street (gang, prosecution and law enforcement)”, Deborah Spencer-Chun, President & Ceo, Adult Friends for Youth, Honolulu, HI.

“Such a diverse and complete selection of offerings with people from all over the world! Great job as always”, James Sutphin, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

“Plenty of course diversity and opportunity to learn and expand not only knowledge, but a network of professional contacts and friends”, Aaron Lanting, Lynwood Police Department, Lynwood, IL.

“I enjoyed getting to learn about the challenges faced when trying to implement gang prevention and intervention programs. The presenters were very passionate about the topics they were discussing”, Cassandra Bolfour, Gang Exit and Community Outreach Worker, McMan, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada.

“This was my first conference and I had a great time learning and feel like my knowledge of gangs, gang involvement, etc. from this conference will help me in my profession”, Kristin Barrios, Deputy, Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, Adrian, MI.

“Networking, networking, networking. The ability to have the time to meet and talk to people from all over the country working in this field: from law enforcement to corrections, to social workers, its an amazing opportunity to share information and make these contacts. Included in that are all the presenters who we also had the opportunity to network with. One of the best conferences I’ve ever been to and looking forward to 2023", D. Winter.

“The number and type of classed offered. The qualifications and experience of presenters. That some instructors/presenters offer a different perspective because they live/work in other countries”, Christine Bouffard, Federal Bureau of Prisons, Chicago, IL.

“The amount of classes offered here is incredible”, Ryan Drury, Deputy, Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, Mason, MI.

“The speakers were compelling, varied, engaging and knowledgeable. I felt very at home - it was a great group of people with a great mission”, Elizabeth J. McGrath, St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, South Bend, IN.

“The diversity of classes and instructors was great. The staff was also very welcoming and helpful. Wonderful experience”, Det. Michael Ricks, Gwinnett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“Very organized. Excellent speakers. Very helpful to hear how other areas of the country deal with gang issues to get ideas to strengthen our prosecutors”, Nicole Allain, Assistant District Attorney, Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, Woburn, MA.

“A great networking opportunity. All of the presenters were knowledgeable and enthused about their topics. Provided a lot of useful insight to take back to my agency and apply to my role”, Alfred Brown, Franklin County Juvenile Intervention Center, Columbus, OH.

“Phillip J Swift was amazing”, Nicholas Newton, Kent County Sheriff’s Department, Grand Rapids, MI.

“The teachers are always great and provide real life examples. The support staff goes above and beyond for everyone. The class schedules cover all areas related to gangs which allows a very targeted approach to learning. Bringing state law enforcement officer, teachers, trainers, lawyers, corrections and community partners together creates a true national partnership”, Sharon Mashburn, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“Great people in the operations center room Irene and Maria !!!”, Don English, San Bernardino County Superintendent, San Bernardino, CA.

“Video classes useful”, Molly Schroering, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Format allow for the opportunity to experience numerous classes/lectures throughout the conference”, Hannah Robeson, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“So much variety of experienced teachers and fantastic networking”, Mac Greer, Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, Mason, MI.

“The networking was very good. I also liked the variety of classes available”, Todd Dennis, Special Investigator, Lenawee County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Adrian, MI.

“So many classes to choose from”, Efrain Rueda, Wichita State Police Department, Wichita, KS.

“It was great to network with people. I was also able to gain a lot of knowledge from this conference”, Bart Finnigan, Lynwood Police Department, Lynwood, IL.

“Everyone was helpful and easily approachable”, Joshua Tong, Franklin County Juvenile Intervention Center, Columbus, OH.

“All the instructors were passionate about their subjects”, Christopher Mobley, Cleveland Division of Police, Cleveland, OH.

“The flexibility of video sessions”, Eric Santiago, Kent County Sheriff’s Department, Grand Rapids, MI..

“Different perspectives!”, Robert Fiorello, PEI Kids, Lawrenceville, NJ.

“The conference is great to see how other agencies are combating gang issues”, Ryan Grimshaw, Mansfield Police Department, Mansfield, OH.

“Good variety of presenters and information”, Johnathan Ward, GVI Community Outreach Worker, Goodwill Industries, South Bend, IN.

“Great info”, Kimani Anderson, GVI Outreach Worker, Goodwill Industries, South Bend, IN.

“Hotel staff was great, NGCRC staff was great and very helpful. There was plenty of course choices and I like the diversity of the conference attendees’ field of study”, William Talley, Floyd County Sheriff’s Department, New Albany, IN.

“Information and knowledge gained, networking, inclusivity, overall amazing experience”, Kellen Gonsalves, North Star Learning Centers, New Bedford, MA.

“Exposure to other areas in gang prevention and prosecution and other presenters makes me more informed in my job”, Charlotte Lomnicki, Cobb County District Attorney’s Office, Marietta, GA.

“Lots of new knowledge every year. Will be back next year”, Sgt. Matthew Davis, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Muncie, IN.

“Great conference”, Kyle Jenks, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“Networking great, lots of new info, some good presenters, and very relevant classes”, Kit Cummings, Power of Peace Project, Marietta, GA.

“Very informative”, Larry Lee Slayton Jr., Pathfinder Resources, Danville, VA.

“The networking aspect that it provided to professionals from all walks of life”, Alvis Williams, Pathfinder Resources, Danville, VA..

“The networking was the best experience”, Curtis A. Artis, Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Worker, Danville, VA.

“I do love all the presenters and courses!”, Penny Hestand, Strategic Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY..

“Attention to detail. You make all attendees feel important”, Kevin O’Neil, Franklin County Juvenile Intervention Center, Columbus, OH.

“Class setup. Ball game”, Michael Hollandsworth, Fort Wayne Police Department, Ft. Wayne, IN.

“The trainings, presenters, networking awards”, Sgt. Anita Perez, Hualapai Juvenile Detention and Rehabilitation Center, Peach Springs, AZ.

“The amount of assistance and direction for first timers made everything flow seamlessly (staffs/accommodations). The instructors and their willingness to help, even provide contact info for future needs of attendees”, Det. William H. Lo, Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, Mason, MI.

“Great information gathered for my agency and DA’s office”, Richard T. Hunter, Senior Detective, Terrebone Parish Sheriff’s Office, Houma, LA.

“Networking events. I met a lot of great people when I attended the White Sox social”, Connor Larson, Chief Intelligence Analyst, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, Omaha, NE.

“I really appreciate the access to conference. Thank you for your hard work and dedication”, Paul F. Walema Jr., Program Coordinator, Hualapai Juvenile Detention and Rehabilitation Center, Peach Springs, AZ.

“The networking opportunities provided”, Joseph Kajy, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Pontiac, MI.

“Networking”, Deputy Joseph M. Polan, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Pontiac, MI..

“Ability to take classes in person as well as virtually”, Chelsea Schneller, Intelligence Analyst, Michigan State Police, Grand Haven, MI.

“Location! Speakers! White Sox”, Alex Z. Saine, ATF, Wilmington, NC.

“Some instructors very knowledgeable about their material and you could tell by if they read the slides version or not”, Travis Stantz, Mansfield Police Department, Mansfield, OH.

“The network experience was great”, Aileen Bryant-Wales, Ladies of Promise Inc, Louisville, KY.

“Gang training with Robert Mulvaney. He was captivating and was very knowledgeable”, Caneth Lee, Director GVI/SAVE, Goodwill Industries, South Bend, IN.

“I enjoyed it and learned much more information on gangs”, Dean Martin Jr., GMACC Inc, Brooklyn, NY.

“Interactions with others across the fields”, Philip J Swift, Ft. Worth Marshal, Ft. Worth, TX.

“Very impressed with some of the presentations”, Marc Deshaies, Ft. Wayne Police Department, Ft. Wayne, IN.

“Networking”, James Zolnai, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“Good networking experience”, Martin Green, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“A lot of great speakers with some really useable information to take back”, Christine McDowell, Narcotics Intelligence Analyst, Michigan State Police/MIOC, Battle Creek, MI..

“Good variety of topics. Knowledgeable presenters”, Andrew LeTourneau, Associate County Attorney, Olmsted County Attorneys Office, Rochester, MN.

“Good stuff”, James Miller, State’s Attorneys Office, Ft. Myers, FL.

“Variety of courses is great”, Leena M. Marcos, State’s Attorneys Office, Ft. Myer, FL.

“The practical for how to put together RICOS and long term investigations were great”, Kelsey Guernsey, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Jackson County Office of Prosecuting Attorney, Jackson, MI..

“Love the training choosing classes to attend”, Nico Flores, Investigator, Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta, GA.

“We really enjoy and appreciate the opening ceremony and commemoration of LORD”, Aaron Cunningham, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Interaction, the different agencies, the police, and new friends”, Luis Alonso Flores Montalvo, Polcia National Civil (PNC), El Salvador.

“Networking”, Gregory D. Dabney, Investigator, Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta, GA..

“I always take at least a few things away that help me in my investigations that also helps me think of other ideas to develop on my own”, Steven J. Stechschulte Jr., Lima Police Department, Lima, OH.

“The networking and meeting people from other departments and learning what tactics are working them”, Audrey Fugate, Jackson Police Department, Jackson, MI.

“A lot of valuable information. Great networking”, Tony Gilkey, U.S. Probation Office, Lexington, KY.

“Multi-Agency interaction is great. Also, a great mix of prosecutors, police and academics”, Adam Post, Gwinnett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“The best gang conference with so many great presenters”, Michael Tabarrok, Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney, Dougherty County District Attorney’s Office, Albany, GA.

“I enjoyed all of the options. The networking”, Ashlee Mastrangelo, Assistant District Attorney, Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, Woburn, MA.

“Choices - several choices of class, great instructors - top notch, and professional, yet a relaxed atmosphere for learning”, Patricio A. Lopez, Greenville Police Department, Greenville, NC.

“Learning the ways different parts of the country deal with gangs”, Lester Sullivan, Cambridge Police Department, Cambridge, MA.

“Great information I can take back to my dept”, Michael Schwartz, Cambridge Police Department, Cambridge, MA.

‘Meeting detectives/ other criminal justice workers who are trying to learn themselves”, Michael R. McCord, Jackson Police Department, Jackson, MI.

“The massive amount of various and specialized training classes”, Kyle William Stuart, Chapel Hill Police Department, Chapel Hill, NC.

“All the presenters were great”, Richard Pennycuff, James City County Police Department, Williamsburg, VA.

“The networking opportunities were great! The information presented was extremely useful”, Sebastian Edwards, Probation Officer 1, Caddo Parish Juvenile Services, Shreveport, LA.

“A lot of great information shared”, Antonio Stovall, City Managers Office, Roanoke City, VA.

“Becoming more educated on different gangs, their lingo, and hearing different perspectives on what works and doesn’t work with these gangs”, Shawnte Paris, North Star Learning Centers, New Bedford, MA.

“Learning environment”, Christopher Lamont Roberts, City Managers Office, Roanoke City, VA.

“Learned so much information that I can take back not only for work but for my community”, Charlene L. Drew, RHU Facilitator, Napier Counseling, Loyall, KY.

“Knowledgeable presenters. I learned useful information to be better at my job”, Susan Dye, MRT Facilitator, Napier Counseling, Lexington, KY.

“Multiple trainings/times was helpful”, Det. Alec Norris, Blackman-Leoni DPS, Jackson, MI.

“You guys have a lot of information, presenters are very prepared”, Tiffany Lamela, GMACC Inc, Oceanside, NY.

“Meeting new people”, Jacquelle Jackson, Probation Officer 1, Caddo Parish Juvenile Services, Shreveport, LA.

“Definitely Learned A lot!”, Emmanuel Pope, Violence Interrupter Supervisor, Life Camp, Queens, NY.

“The networking is key and feel like I made a connection with people around the nation”, Joshua Thomas, Outreach Worker, Life Camp, Queens, NY..

“Great!!”, Capt. David Whitley, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA.

“Inspiring atmosphere, good hearted leaders and good networking connections”, Diante Jones, Gang Specific Youth Coach, Community Based Services, Omaha, NE.

“The instruction and staff are fantastic”, Darryl Michelli, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Baton Rouge, LA.

“Outstanding variety”, David Dionne, Investigator, New Hampshire Department of Corrections, Concord, NH.

“Just a vast field of topics and very educational”, Det. Peter M. Koerber, Newton Police Department, Newton, MA..

“Just knowing I have so much more to learn”, Jahmaul Daniel, NFI Massachusetts, Danvers, MA.

“Very much appreciated the breadth of knowledge, information, and personal experiences each presenter brought to the videos. Especially so give the fact the majority of these videos contain sections which are more conducive to the in-person experience. Each of the videos successfully engaged me in the topic. I found Ms. Ashton’s videos particularly engaging with a great mix of needed information, personal insight, and real-world examples from studies she has led and/or been involved with”, Daniel Winter, PEI Kids, Lawrenceville, NJ.

“All speakers were great”, Capt. Leonardo Moore, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Baton Rouge, LA.

“More courses geared towards gangs in corrections”, Dwayne Melton, State Training School, El Dora, IA.

“I took every session don Keiron McConnell. He is excellent”, Michael Reilly, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“Friendly staff, meeting new people, the conference rejuvenated me to get back to the basics”, Jonathan Matthews, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“Facilities were top notch, fast paced, and options”, Athena Sherman, Nebraska Crime Commission, Lincoln, NE.

“Courses and the ability to jump in and out of courses - watch videos”, Mark Terpstra, Kentwood Police Department, Kentwood, MI..

“The best thing is the unity between each other”, Jesus M. Ruiz, Leaving The Streets Ministry, Havehill, MA.

“Being able to create connections with other police departments and talk about similar issues”, Sgt. Timothy Ellyson, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Such great info and such great people and personalities”, Stephon Cummings, Office of Community Violence Solutions, Denver, CO.

“I really enjoyed it and it was extremely helpful on so many levels”, Natalie N. Brown, City Managers Office, Roanoke City, VA.

“Bringing everyone to interactive training or topics across the nation”, Kendrick L. Vann, Youth Services Outreach Administration, City of Henderson, Henderson, NC.

“Great and very informative conferences”, Shantel Hargrove, Youth Services Outreach Administration, City of Henderson, Henderson, NC.

“Different trainings available”, Russell J. Walker, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Hammond, LA.

“The connections and all around trainings”, Robert Allen, Office of Community Violence Solutions, Denver, CO.

“The level of professionalism and knowledge. Respect”, Stanley Armand Charles, Deportation Officer, DHS/ICE, Miami, FL..

“The wealth of information and networking”, Anthony Jennings, Youth Development Specialist, Life Camp, Queens, NY.

“Good training as always”, Gregg Etter, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

“Robert Mulvaney is very good”, Keith Wynn, Department of Juvenile Justice, Decatur, GA.

“The speaker/presenters are very good. The time for the presentations”, Dierseu Constancia, Intelligence Officer, Curacao Police Force, Waiigat, Willemstad, Curacao (Dutch Carribbean)..

“The number and type of classes offered”, James Harris, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Pontia, MI.

“The knowledge and passion by every presenter. All of the presenters were very intelligent regarding gangs and it was clear to tell they all loved sharing this information with us”, Stephon Mack.

“A strong mix of presenters from all fields who seemed to want to facilitate conversations, not just teach”, Det. David Barkhouse, Cambridge Police Department, Cambridge, MA.

“Networking. Current research and theories on gangs”, H. Clay Walker, Director, Caddo Parish Juvenile Services, Shreveport, LA.

“Networking and the information given by the presenters”, Quentin Collins, Intensive Probation Officer, Caddo Parish Juvenile Services, Shreveport, LA.

What's New: The NGCRC Online Video Training System

What we learned from the 2020 Conference, in adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic, is that a video-based training platform provides many advantages to and significantly supplements the regular "in-person" classroom-based training program. We will continue to offer this feature in the 2025 program --- it is a very useful option is what we found out. This year we have over 38 hours of training content to select from from the video training system.

With the advent of COVID 19, the NGCRC developed and enhanced a Video-Based Training system to supplement and to be an alternative to classroom based training. We still have the video training but we know the best training is classroom based where you can interact socially - - - and accomplish some networking.

The training videos include videotaped sessions of classroom training; as well as narrated power point presentations converted into video format. What is important to note here is that these training videos are viewed best by using a PC, or laptop, or think pad --- something with a real display monitor, otherwise with a regular smart phone the text information you need to absorb is difficult to render on a phone sized display.

The 2025 Conference is also therefore a "hybrid" conference: if you want nothing but classroom sit down face-to-face training sessions at the conference hotel location on August 4 - August 6, 2025 then we have lots of that --- that is our normal model of training. If you want digital training or video-based training, something you can view anytime of the day on anyday anywhere in the world --- we have that too. It is our online video training system. You can access it now at this location: https://ngcrc.com/videopage.html

If you want to mix some classroom-based training and some video-based training, you have that right here. Just be sure to have over half of the 24 hours reflect actual attendance at classroom-based training sessions.

If you want to complete your entire training program just in classroom face-to-face training sessions, you can do that. That's what we normally do.

If you want to complete all of your training (accumulating 24 hous and getting credit for 24 hours) "on-line" by using the video training system, you cannot do that; your evaluation form needs to reflect 50%+ of the hours are completed in the standard classroom-based training.

If your password does not work, call the NGCRC Training Conference Help Line: 708 258-9111 we can re-issue a password easy enough. You can also just email us that message at: gangcrime@aol.com

The NGCRC Video Training Page for the 2025 Training Program:

This Video Training Page Was Last updated: April 10, 2023

We do not allow "video based"-only conference registrations if your intent is to receive certification.. Our training program is designed to be onsite in Chicago and in face-to-face professional training classrooms where you interact cordially with other persons undergoing training. Our video-based training is used to supplement the classroom sessions and can be used in lieu of making up a small number of hours where the majority of the hours of training are spent in the classroom mode. We cannot allow someone to register who plans to avoid actually attending any of the training sessions and instead just complete 24 hours of video-based training as a way of achieving certification. We simply believe it is true that the best training is classroom based training or field-training where you socially interact with other people and perhaps even achieve some useful networking

The Video Training Page or "Videopage" is intended to be a supplement to the classroom-based curriculum. You will need to have half or more of your accumulated hours to be logged in by means of actually attending the classroom based training sessions held in Chicago.

The Videopage is a service you receive the moment you sign up for the 2025 NGCRC training conference.

When you register, you receive a special letter from the NGCRC called the Confirmation of Conference Registration letter. It also contains your password for using the Videopage.

The “Videopage” is a special secured training portal at the NGCRC website. It allows you to accumulate training credit using a laptop or PC, just by navigating to the videopage. It is not "interactive". You have no face-to-face contact with the presenters. The presenter does not see you or interact with you. You cannot raise your hand and ask the pesenter a question as you could in a regular classroom based training session. So there are classroom based sessions and the schedule for these is posted at the website (https://ngcrc.com/schedule.html). And then there are the smaller set of choices available only through the video training program and are described in detail below and at the website (https://ngcrc.com/videopage.html). When you sign up for non-certification or certification, you automatically get acess to both options. And you can mix and match (some video based, some classroom based).

You will need to have a valid password provided to you by the NGCRC to access and use the training videos provided at the video page: https://ngcrc.com/videopage.html

Q: Where do we go to look at the Video Page?

A: https://ngcrc.com/videopage.html

Q: What do I do if my password does not work?

A: Call the NGCRC Helpline (708) 258-9111

Q: What do I need to do before I view my first video at th Videopage?

A: Print out a copy of the Video Page Evaluation Form to "keep track" of hours. Here is a PDF copy: https://ngcrc.com/videoevalform.pdf

You can view an html version of the Video Page Evaluation Form at: https://ngcrc.com/videoevalform.html

By signing up for the 2025 training program, you automatically get access to both the “classroom” teaching sessions at the Chicago hotel on August. 4-6, 2025 as well as all of the on-line video-based training sessions. If you are registered for non-certification, then you can, if you want, complete your entire training program (accumulate the necessary 24 hours of training required) through this videopage portal alone if you needed to or wanted to. You get a password when you register, the password will expire on August 7, 2024 at 5:01p.m. Cental Standard Time. You would need to get both of your Evaluation Forms faxed, emailed, or mailed to us so that we have it on on before 6:01pm on Aug. 7, 2024. If you are registering for certification, we will not issue certificates of completion unless you have at least half of your training hours completed from actually attending in-person classroom-based training sessions.

There are N = 38 hours of session training content provided in the video options below. The video content alone does not cover all of the 30 training tracks, you will see the video content is concentrated on only about 19 different training tracks. You do not get credit for anything over 24 hours of training. But you can do it for “extra credit” if by that you mean educational self-help.

You can access the 2025 Video Page Evaluation Form at: https://ngcrc.com/videoevalform.html

See the Video Page for full information: https://ngcrc.com/videopage.html

Please note that there are important differences in the training experience comparing the “on-line” only versus the “on-site” classroom training experiences. The 2024 NGCRC Training Program is a “hybrid” training program as it includes both on-line and on-site training options. The choice is yours: if you want to learn remotely, you can accumulate up to half of your training hours remotely or via the video training page, do it on your PC-screen or your laptop through this video training system. But you still need to learn “on-site”, and show up in Chicago and get your Official Conference Identification Card and attend classes being taught in the classroom. You need to have at least half of your accumulated training hours reflect classroom based training sessions.

NGCRC training sessions in the typical classroom context are structured and based on the need for good physical security, where ID’s must be worn and displayed to get access to training rooms, some of which might be restricted in attendance to sworn police officers. So, just as in the real world of classroom based training, the NGCRC Video Training System is also structured in a way to limit and control access to the training videos. The training videos consist of high definition videos and narrated power point presentations. All training videos require that you have a valid password. You can get a password by contacting the NGCRC -- - -- call the NGCRC if necessary (708) 258-9111.

Viewing the videos: You cannot do this effectively on a smart phone. For example, narrated power-point presentations do not show up effectively on phone-size screens, it will make it too hard to read the printed material intended for reading on the powerpoint slides. You need to use a laptop size screen, or regular PC size screen, or larger thinkpad size screen to read the detailed written information. Some videos require you to do outside reading, you do not get time credit for independent reading time spent on the preparation for viewing the video. In our model of professional training, you get credit for the video time designated, not for the time it takes you to do the required reading.

To view the videos you will need a password. You can get a password only if you register for the video training. Once you complete your 24 hours of training, send us the evaluation form and we will mail the training certificate to you. 2024 Passwords Will Not Work for this 2025 training content. The 2023 Video Training Passwords expired 8-3-2023. You get your 2025 Password by registering first for the 2025 training program. Everyone who registers for the NGCRC’s 2025 Gang Training Conference receives a formal letter of their Confirmation of Conference Registration. If you have not received such a Confirmation of Conference Registration letter from the NGCRC, you need to get in touch with us ASAP, as you are probably not registered for the NGCRC’s training Conference. You should feel free to call the NGCRC for a routine question “can you confirm my conference registration as I have not received any actual letter to that effect”. Call us at (708) 258-9111

Passwords for the 2025 training program will expire on August 6, 2025 at 5:01pm.

Remember to mark your Evaluation Form when you are claiming credit for any hours or portions of hours of credit from the training. You can print out a copy of the Evaluation Form at: https://ngcrc.com/evaluationform.pdf

Here are the ways to send in your Evaluation Form: (1) by fax at 708 258-9111; (2) by U.S. Postal Service — mail to: NGCRC, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990; (3) by email at: gangcrime@aol.com; (4) by handing it in physically on-site at the conference location in Chicago. Feel free to send in evaluation forms at any time you have accumulated your 24 hours of required training.

Definition of terms: Where it refers to “Session #” below, it is referring to the session number assigned to the sessions as listed at the 2023 official conference website (the courses are listed in two places:

https://ngcrc.com/2024.conference.html

and secondly at: Https://ngcrc.com/courses.html

Q: So what exactly do I do to see the video?

A: Just copy the url or the video link to your browser and go. The url or link will have the syntax "https://vimeo.com/" and then the unique numeric identifier for that video. Example, to see video #1 type in to your browser: https://vimeo.com/415823159

LISTING OF VIDEO TRAINING SESSIONS:

Note: Session numbers for the Video Sessions below are not the Session Numbers in the 2025 Course Schedule: https://ngcrc.com/courses.html

Video #1:

Session #: (13) “Gang/STG Intelligence: What We Know from the U.S. County Jails”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Profile Analysis; Hate Groups / White Racist Extremist Gangs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs.

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American county jails. It covers the kinds of challenges that jail correctional officers face in the real world. Examined in detail are those aspects of gang life that impact on safety and security (fights, threats, attacks, homemade weapons, racial conflict, etc). Attendees will receive a detailed briefing on what is going on with regard to gangs in the context of American county jail facilities. Upon completion attendees will have a better understanding of the national picture of dealing with gangs in the jail environment.

Bio

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He authored the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to video #1: Https://vimeo.com/415823159

Video #2:

Session #: (53) “Understanding the Relationship Between the Individual, Gang Membership, and Desistance from Crime for Adolescent and Youth Adult Males”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, England.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members on Probation/Parole; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

Abstract

This presentation will use different research methods to explore the relationship between young people and gangs. Firstly, it will summarize research into the offending frequencies for current, prior and non-gang affiliated offenders using longitudinal data from the US Pathways to Desistence Study. This found that although gang leavers continued to offend, they had significantly different attitudes and scored lower on negative psychological traits than those who remained. Second, it will consider how young people view themselves by a narrative analysis of at-risk young people taking part in a UK gang intervention. The findings suggest that future interventions should consider broader social and psychological risks, rather than gang membership per se, to assess an individual’s risk of recidivism. This session will help those who work with youth gang members to identify those individuals who would be more open to attitudinal changes, including respect for the law, within programmes.

Bio

Sally-Ann Ashton is a Lecturer in Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior at Edge Hill University, England. Her Ph.D. investigated the psychological and social risk factors associated with gang membership, group offending and desistance from crime. In 2017 she was a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award for Superior Accomplishments in Gang Research. Sally-Ann has over 10 years of experience running training workshops in English prisons. She currently works with the Violence Reduction Unit at Mercyside Police and is responsible for the evaluation of intervention programs for young people at risk of violent offending and gang membership with Salford Foundation and Greater Manchester Combined Authorities.

Here is the link to video #2: Https://vimeo.com/415723990

Video #3:

Session #: (69) “Hybrid Gangs: How to Identify Local Gang Culture”, by Jim Bailey, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI; and Det. Tyler Sutherland, Gang Suppression Unit, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Homicide Investigation; Gang Prosecution.

Abstract

How to identify local neighborhood gang culture, what larger gang culture influences your local gang, and how are they being influenced? How does your local gang adapt signs, symbols, tattoos, colors to your jurisdiction which may have originated elsewhere, perhaps even from a national gang culture? How are you tracking your local gang and crime stats?

Bios

Detective Tyler Sutherland has been a police officer for the Battle Creek Police Department for over 13 years. He is currently assigned to the Battle Creek Police Detective Bureau, and was previously assigned to the Gang Suppression Unit for over 6 years. As a member of the Gang Unit, Detective Sutherland was directly involved as the lead investigator in a number of gang, and violent crime, cases that resulted in courtroom trials and jury convictions. While participating in all aspects of gang investigations and court room prosecution, Detective Sutherland has been qualified as, and testified as, a gang expert in the U.S. District court and Michigan State Circuit and District Court, more than 15 times in the last five years. One of these gang cases, was the first criminal gang enhancement jury conviction in the State of Michigan since the state statute was created. He is also recognized in circuit and district court as an expert in Drug Trafficking and Drug Investigations. A Defensive Tactics Instructor, and Patrol Training Officer, he has also received Instructor certification for Active Shooter Response for Civilians, through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University.

Corporal Jim Bailey has been with the Battle Creek Police Department for over 13 years, and has been assigned to the Battle Creek Police Department Gang Suppression Unit for over 6 years. Corporal Bailey has been directly involved in many of the same gang investigations as Detective Sutherland, and has assisted as one of the lead investigators with Detective Sutherland, on many of the same violence crime investigations. Corporal Bailey has also been involved in cell phone investigations, writing and executing search warrants, surveillance techniques, undercover drug buys, and managing confidential informants. Corporal Bailey has been recognized in Michigan State District Court and Circuit Court as an expert in drug trafficking and drug investigations, identifying armed subjects, and cell phone site analyses. Corporal Bailey is currently a K-9 handler for the Battle Creek Police Department and is a member of the department’s Emergency Response Team. He is a Defensive Tactics Instructor and a Patrol Training Officer for the Battle Creek Police Department. He has also received Instructor certification for Active Shooter Response for Civilians, through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University.

Here is the link to Video #3: Https://vimeo.com/440800600

Video length: 1 hours and 57 minutes

Video #4:

Session #: (15) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 1 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: special housing for informants; racial conflicts and race relations; contraband cell phones; overcrowding and stress and trauma on the job; suicide problems by inmates and staff; the “VID” factor and PTSD; exposure to trauma and stress on the job; increased radicalization of inmates; religious extremism; gang/STG abuse of religious worship; review of the largest white racist extremist gangs; Islamic gangs and gangs that seek to control religious services; the concept of gang density and its three measurement components; gang recruitment behind bars; inmate complaints about gang recruitment; extent of recruitment in prisons today.

Bio

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He authored the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to video #4: Https://vimeo.com/417129871

Length: 58 mins.

Video #5:

Session #: (20) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 2 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: measuring the three aspects of gang density; how gang importation is added with joining inside; extent to which prisons report white inmates have a separate gang; names of the largest gangs in American prisons; the prevalence of reports of military trained gang members; names of the largest motorcycle gangs behind bars; reports of gang leaders influencing politicians; pressure to play down the gang problem; political corruption over time: 1994 to present; whether gangs that exist inside operate by the same name outside of prison; comparing street gangs and prison gangs; the extent to which gangs/STGs cause management problems; the problem of housing all members of one gang together.

Bio

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He authored the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to video #5: Https://vimeo.com/417138504

Length: 57 mins.

Video #6:

Session #: (23) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 3 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: gang/STG member control of inmate economic rackets; cash seized from gang inmates; stronger gang affiliation after serving time; STG’s smuggle in contraband cell phones, make more improvised weapons; extent of formal gang training for prison staff today; threats and assaults against staff from prison gang members; the 2015 New York correctional union protest billboard portends the future — more protest billboards; whether inmate classification systems take gang membership into account; gangs extort money from inmate workers; whether Islamic inmates have separate gangs; are gang members more lawsuit oriented than non-gang members; the three types of prison riots; best estimate for latent terrorists; who wants tougher laws and zero-tolerance; the scarcity of gang renouncement programs; could improving race relations help reduce gang violence in prison; what support exists for no human contact status; large support exists for telephone and mail monitoring.

Bio

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He authored the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to video #6: Https://vimeo.com/418294735

Length: 61 mins.

Video #7:

Session #: (25) “Gang/STG Corrections Intelligence: What We Know From State Prisons in the USA — Part 4 of 4”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., Executive Director, NGCRC.

One (1) hour

Abstract

This presentation focuses on what we know about gang and STG activity inside American state prisons. Attendees are provided a full coverage of the latest accurate information on the following topics covered: 3^rd component of gang density; few prisons have programs to help gang/STG inmates quit the gang; small percentage who quit gang life while in prison means basically the first two components of gang density have the greatest weight; gang density adjustment to 63.8% in U.S. prisons is the only estimate with the rigorous three point or triangulated measurement approach; review of the use of 20 strategies to control gangs/STGs; the issue of bus therapy; overwhelming majority of prisons want Congress to pass legislation enabling prisons to jam cell phone signals; new development — about 1/3 of U.S. prisons now report drones have been used to smuggle in contraband (cell phones, drugs); also new — 37.9% of prisons now provide inmates with internet access or email; almost all recognize internet access for inmates creates a new type of danger; few prisons (13.8%) allow prisoner to prisoner email; low grade for federal leadership in responding to the gang problem in the last year; 89.7% expect the gang problem in corrections to increase in the next few years; 79.3% expect the problem of inmate violence from gang members to increase; three-fourths expect an increase in gang members abusing religious rights; 72.4% expect an increase in gang members assaulting correctional officers; and 44.8% expect an increase in radical militancy among inmates.

Bio

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He was the author of the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to video #7: Https://vimeo.com/420466413

Length = 48 mins.

Video #8:

Session #: (47) “Psychopathy and Gang Membership”, Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, England.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members on Probation/Parole; Gang Counseling Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention and Intervention Services; Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.

Abstract

The relationship between psychopathy and long-term gang membership has been established by a number of academic papers. This presentation will give an overview of psychopathy before exploring its relationship to gang membership for a single sample from adolescence to early adulthood, using longitudinal data from the Pathways to Desistance Study. Finally, the presentation will explore the relationship between psychopathy and the offending patterns of gang membership and will consider the implications of working with individuals who have psychopathic traits.

Bio

Here is the link to video #8: Https://vimeo.com/429173106

video length: 54mins 17 secs

Video #9:

Session #: (49) “Understanding the Roles, Behaviors, and Risk Factors and Offending Behaviors of Adolescent Female Gang Members”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Psychosocial Analysis of Offending Behavior, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, England.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Dealing With Gang Members on Probation/Parole; Gang Counseling Skills; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services.

Abstract

Using data from the Pathways to Desistance Study, this session will explore the psychological and environmental risk factors associated with female gang members in a sample of 28 participants with a mean age of 16.08 (range between 14 and 18 years of age). The presentation will also consider crime patterns of the sample, and the extent to which their offending differs from their non-gang affiliated counterparts. The session will inform those working with young women who are at risk of gang membership, mental health professionals, and those planning targeted interventions for female gang members.

Bio

Here is the link to video #9: Https://vimeo.com/429166014

video length: 39 mins 11 secs

Video #10:

Session #: (33) “Starting a New Gang Renouncement Program or Process in Your Correctional Facility”, by Veronica Williams, Executive Director, Al-Fredricks’s Return Inc, Houston, TX.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Gang Prevention Skills; Gang Counseling Skills; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services; Faith-based Programs for Gang Intervention.

Abstract

Participants will learn how to start-up a gang renouncement program or process of their choice in their current lockup facility. This will include how to collaboratively form partnerships between security and counseling. This workshop will also include strategies for initial curriculum design. In addition, preparation for transitioning program participants from Administrative Segregation to the General Population community while incarcerated will be addressed. Staff diversity training will also be introduced as an important component. This workshop will also include an array of program processes to choose from when considering the initial start-up of a gang renouncement program.

Bio

As the Supervisor of the Gang Renouncement and Dissociation (G.R.A.D.) process at the O.B. Ellis Unit and Estelle Unit in Huntsville, Texas before retirement, Ms. Williams created this group process for her Master’s degree project for which she was honored wih an award by Springfield College in Springfield, Mass, not only for the content of the project but also for being the first person in Springfield College history (1885) to survey inmates. This process was later implemented by TDCJ as a follow-up procedure for tracking the success of the participants who graduated their gang renouncement programs and were put into general population. Ms. Williams was also instrumental in working with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ); in the start up of the Administrative Segregation Diversion Program for confirmed gang members of the prison environment wishing to renounce upon returning to prison.

Here is the link to video #10: Https://vimeo.com/441658889

video length: 1 hour 12 minutes 43 secs

Video #11:

“A Digital Version of the Conference Orientation”, approximately 15 minutes long, explains how to use evaluation form, why we need to wear the Conference ID’s while on NGCRC floors, etc, gives advice for networking. Useful to everyone attending the gang training conference.

Here is the link to Video #11: not yet available

Video #12:

Session #: (43) “Understanding Psychological Risk Factors and Building ‘Therapeutic Helping’ Relationships with Gang Involved Youth”, by Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Lecturer, Edge Hill University, England; and William A. Campbell, Kentucky Juvenile Justice Training, Richmond, KY.

1.5 hours (90 minutes)

Session credits: Dealing With Gangs in Juvenile Correctional Facilities; Gang Counseling Techniques; Gang Prevention Skills; Gangs and Mental Health.

Abstract

This presentation will focus on the stages of building a therapeutic helping relationship and will explore how practitioners can utilize this system for working with young people. The session will also incorporate a summary of key psychological, social and developmental risk factors that can contribute to a young person’s recovery and desistance. It will focus on how support workers can recognize these risks and work with young people to better understand and address them.

Bios

William A. Campbell is the Interim Director for the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice. With 26 years of working with at-risk/adjudicated teens in numerous settings ranging from acute care psychiatric, private residential treatment and group home & juvenile justice detentions. Originally, a Chicago native, William attended Western Illinois University where he received his Bachelors in Communications. Served in the US Army and is a Desert Storm Vet as member of the 101^st Airborne (Air Assault) Division, honorably discharged in February 1993. In March of 1993 William began his career working with at-risk/adjudicated adolescents in an acute care psychiatric hospital. William joined the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice’s Training Branch in 2007. He has assisted and trained new direct care employees during academy training. In early 2009, certified as an expert gang specialist. In 2010, he received the DJJ Professional Development Employee of the Year award. In 2010, became a Trainer for Trainers at the National Gang Crime Research Center. William currently resides in Elizabethtown, Kentucky and is also a member of the Juvenile Justice Alternative to Detention Initiative Committee.

Here is the link to Video #12: Https://vimeo.com/437602976

Video length: 1 hour and 33 minutes

Video #13:

Session #: (29) “Gang Expert Testimony: Bringing Your Gang Investigation into Court”, by Tyler Sutherland, Gang Suppression Unit, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI; and Jim Bailey, Battle Creek Police Department, Battle Creek, MI.

Three (3) hours

Session credits: Gang Prosecution; Gang Crime Investigation; Gang Homicide Investigation.

Abstract

How court room testimony and gang evidence will reduce crime rates. What to say and present as a gang expert in court. How to apply your state statute of an enhanced gang crime to the evidence in your gang case. How the stored gang intelligence becomes useful in the court room. How the prosecutor and gang investigator get a case ready for courtroom prosecution.

Bios

Here is the link to Video #13: Https://vimeo.com/440788706

Video length: 2 hours and 47 minutes

Video #14:

Session #: (22) “Creating a Staff Facilitated Peer Support for In-Prison Gang Renouncement Candidates”, by Veronica Williams, Executive Director, Al-Fredrick’s Return Inc, Houston, TX.

One (1) hour

Abstract

The purpose of this workshop is to extend a voluntary weekly In-Prison Staff Facilitated Peer Support Group to those who have already graduated from their facility’s Gang Renouncement Program/Process. Workshop attendees will learn how to set up this type of group in order to follow-up with the graduates’ progress once in general population. The group also ensures that the participants are using their cognitive intervention skills on a daily basis that they learned while in the program by generating weekly discussion with the group facilitators and other participants. Attendees will learn to generate impactful conversation with Gang Renouncement Graduates, and to aid group participants in reaching their short term goals while still incarcerated. Lastly, workshop attendees will gain basic knowledge in counseling, interviewing and management skills for the Gang Renouncement Graduate.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #14: https://vimeo.com/430187828

Video length: 57 minutes 36 seconds

Video #15:

Session #: (42) “Alternative Methods to Attack Gang Problems: RICO, Asset Forfeitures, Federal Project Safe Neighborhood, and Use of Probation/Parole Warrants”, by Michael Tabarrok, Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney, Special Prosecutions Section, Dougherty County, Albany, GA.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Prosecution; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Homicide Investigation.

Abstract

This session will cover using alternative methods to address gang issues. Specifically, using RICO to build gang cases, referring cases for Federal prosecution, working with probation and parole, and finally the matter of asset forfeiture as a mechanism to attack gang resources. The session will provide general legal information due to differing state laws.

Bio

Michael has been working in criminal law for 20 years now, 17 as a prosecutor in Georgia and Guam. Federal liaison for PSN cases with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia. He has asset forfeiture experience of 17 years, and having forfeited in excess of $15 mi llion en toto. Currently prosecuting gangs, drugs, and murders/death penalty cases in Albany, Georgia.

Here is the link to Video #15: https://vimeo.com/442506455

Length of video: 46 minutes 41 seconds

Video #16:

Session #: (7)“The Graffiti Identity 1 - Understanding the Game", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Advanced Gang Identification; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Gang Crime Investigation; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and Mental Health; Gangs and the Mass Media

Abstract

In today’s tight economy, the majority of police agencies are assigning graffiti vandalism investigations to their street gang or special investigations units. This session provides an introduction to graffiti art versus graffiti vandalism. In this session, participants will learn how to distinguish street gang graffiti from taggers’ graffiti, understand the basic graffiti tags and their variations, and the subcultural protocols that govern them. This session covers the various types of graffiti cultures, state laws (beyond reasonable doubt) and city codes (preponderance of the evidence) and the graffiti identity (name, formats, and styles). This is part one of a three part course sequence.

Bio

Kenneth Davis retired from the Yonkers Police Department in July of 2017. From 1985-1990 he was assigned to uniformed patrol (task force and public housing) and plainclothes (street-level and undercover narcotics). From 1990-2000 he worked street gangs, graffiti crimes and police academy. From 2000-2009 he was assigned to several middle/high schools as a school resource officer. In 2009 - 2017, as a detective, he continued investigating street gangs, narcotics (search warrants) and graffiti crimes. As the departments liaison, he assisted the YMCA’s Cure Violence/SNUG Program and the Westchester County Department of Corrections Re-entry Program. From 2017-present, he is a NYS private investigator and a graffiti/gang specialist presenting at various regional, national, and international conferences.

Here is the link to Video #16: https://vimeo.com/444102918

Length of video: 56 minutes 45 seconds

Video #`17:

Session #: (21)“The Graffiti Identity 2 - Prolific Writers & Crews", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

Abstract

Participants will learn how to recognize their presence and how to extract criminal and research intelligence through the graffiti they generate. Reinforcement of the graffiti identity (name, format, and style). This is part two of a three part course sequence.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #17: https://vimeo.com/444105051

Length of video: 57 minutes 3 seconds

Video #18:

Session #: (35)“A Basic Street Gangs Investigation", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

Notice: This course is restricted to Law Enforcement Only.

Abstract

The instructor will give an overview of one of his past street gang investigations. The session covers the example of initiating two search warrants simultaneously at separate locations: leader and second-in-command’s residences. The course covers an overview of the search warrant return (criminal evidence and gang’s intelligence)..

Bio

Here is the link to Video #18: https://vimeo.com/444106665

Length of video: 56 minutes 23 seconds

Video #19:

Session #: (68)“The Graffiti Identity 3 - Gang Roll Calls (Public Opinion Polls)", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

Abstract

Participants will learn how to recognize and analyze gang graffiti for criminal and research intelligence. Discovering the gang’s membership listing, each member’s commitment level and the groups life span. A means of enhancing a specific gangs profile. This is part three of a three part course sequence.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #19: https://vimeo.com/444113321

Length of video: 57 minutes 38 seconds

Video #20:

Session #: (45)“Gang Ethics 101 - Don’t Shoot the Messenger", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Management; Management Skills for Gang Outreach, Prevention, and Intervention Services ; Gangs and the Mass Media; Gang and Violence Prevention Skills for School Administrators.

Abstract

This course addresses current trends challenging the modern-day gang specialist. It reviews current issues that affect how we apply apprehension, prosecution, prevention, intervention, restorative justice, and information management practices to gangs and gang members. There are many ethical issues in dealing with gangs and gang members, and it affects every stage of the process, from investigation to aftercare, even gang research itself. Should violence interrupter staff be required to “warn and protect” when they learn that gun violence is imminent? Should someone who joins a gang remain in a gang database for the rest of their life? Attend this session to learn about ethical guidelines for dealing with gangs and gang members and to share your own scenarios.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #20: https://vimeo.com/444114956

Length of video: 54 minutes 20 seconds

Video #21:

Session #: (54)“Street Gangs Well Defined - For Criminal or Research Intelligence", by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

Abstract

Participants will learn how to apply tools and measurement to street groups for research and investigative purposes. The instructor will also address the groups inner dynamics, criminal activities, colors and lifespan.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #21: https://vimeo.com/444116586

Length of video: 56 minutes 50 seconds

Video #22:

Session #: (66)“Online Resources - Communication & Search Tools”, by Kenneth Davis, Graffiti/Gang Specialist & Private Investigator, Yonkers, NY.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Gang Internet Investigation; Gangs and the Mass Media

Abstract

Participants will learn the purpose of Google-alerts and E-groups and how to activate them for gang research and investigative purposes. The instructor will demonstrate how to use them for purposes of gang research and for investigative assignments as a graffiti and gang specialist.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #22: https://vimeo.com/444118388

Length of video: 55 minutes 25 seconds

Video #23:

Session #: (19) “Gang Mapping 101: An Introduction ”, by D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff and Professor, Criminal Justice Studies, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN. Two (2) Hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Crime Analysis & Mapping; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists.

Abstract

This class is part 1 of a 2 part series. It serves as a starting point for understanding crime analysis, specifically, analytical mapping techniques as applied to gangs. Topics covered in this class: the evolution of crime analysis and mapping from the 1800s to present; intelligence levels, divisions, and processes; and the roles and responsibilities of analysts, administrators, and police officers. See the other two parts of this 3 part series.

Bio

D. Lee Gilbertson is a tenured professor at a state university in Minnesota and has been teaching since August 2000. He has studied gangs, militias, and extremist groups since 1995. He actively consults in the US and the UK with attorneys, law enforcement investigators, and medical examiners in the areas of forensic victimology and postmortem assessment, as well as crime analysis and mapping. Lee has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has participated in all of the NGCRC Gang Colleges. He is a recipient of the Frederic Milton Thrasher Award (2002, 2005, 2008) and the Curtis Robinson Leadership Award (2015). Lee is the Executive Editor for the Journal of Gang Research and is a member of the NGCRC Staff. His background includes a Ph.D. in sociology, MS in criminal justice, and 16 years of exemplary military service (infantry and signals intelligence).

Here is the link to Video #23: https://vimeo.com/444477923

Length of video: 1 hour 56 minutes 13 seconds

Video #24:

Session #: (62) “Mexican Cartels and Culture: An Analysis of Gangs Along the Southern Border”, by John J. Rodriguez, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Organized Crime; Gang Profile Analysis; Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; International and Transnational Gang Problems; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs.

Abstract

The purpose of this course is to increase the knowledge and awareness of military and law enforcement officers on the Mexican cartel activities and culture in both the United States and Mexico. To gain a better understanding of this complex phenomenon, the course will employ a socio-cultural approach by including a brief history of Mexican history and culture. In addition, students will gain knowledge by observing how and where cartels operate and whom they partner up with (i.e., MS-13, Tango Blast, SUR 13, Aryan Brotherhood, Mexican Mafia, etc) to carry out illicit activities. Moreover, musical influences (narco-corridos) will be explored as well as religion/spiritual deities (Santeria, brujas, curanderos, and the Santa Muerte).

Bio

Dr. Rodriguez’s interests in academia include but are not limited to gangs, transnationalism, immigration, police issues, and Latinos in the criminal justice system. However, I am most interested in gangs, security threat groups and extremist groups. I have been studying, researching, and writing on these groups and their activity for over almost two decades. I have published and presented much of this work in the U.S. and abroad. I have also consulted and testified as an expert witness in multiple cases, which include deportation of gang members, organized crime, and various homicide cases.

Here is the link to Video #24: https://vimeo.com/444381794

Length of video: 44 minutes 21 seconds

Video #25:

Session #: (32) “The Global Growth of Nationalism”, by D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff and Executive Editor, Journal of Gang Research.

One and one-half (1.5) hours

Session credits: Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Advanced Gang Identification; Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs; International and Transnational Gang Problems.

Abstract

Headline: “White nationalism on the rise in the United States!” That’s only a fraction of the whole story. Gang specialists need to attend this session to learn what is happening with regard to nationalism on a worldwide scale. The instructor describes the global expansion of nationalistic pride and its affect on various countries’ politics, economies, and peoples on every continent. Maps, pictures, and videos are used to demonstrate the extent of the problem and how it is reaching into the daily lives of citizens, formal political parties and their agendas, as well as street gangs and hate/extremist groups. The definitional distinction is clarified between nationalism, socialism, national socialism, communism, and fascism.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #25: https://vimeo.com/444849169

Length of video: 1 hour 19 minutes

Video #26:

Session #: (44) “Introduction to Separatist, Racist and Extremist Groups (SREG’s)”, by D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff and Executive Editor, Journal of Gang Research.

Two (2) hours

Session credits: Gang Profile Analysis; Hate Group/White Racist Extremist Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Graffiti Identification and Analysis; Domestic Counter Terrorism Skills; Advanced Gang Identification.

Abstract

This session is an introduction to the various Separatist, Racist, and Extremist Groups (SREGs) in the United States today. The instructors review the founders, origins, beliefs, practices, past and current activities, and significant symbology (e.g., phrases, graffiti, and dates). Call them “Hate Groups” is too simplistic and does not capture the complexity of the problem. The instructors discuss groups that are based on religious belief, political ideology, or racial views.

Bio

Here is the link to Video #26: https://vimeo.com/446233533

Length of video: 1 hour 44 minutes

Video #27: unavailable - Not presenting in 2021

Video #28:

Session #: (37) “Street Gangs to Terrorism Affiliation”, by Michael P. Coghlan, Gang Specialist, DeKalb, IL.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Hate Groups/White Racist Extremist Gangs; Domestic Counter-Terrorism Skills; Gang Profile Analysis; Gangs and Drugs; Gangs and Mental Health; Gang Crime Investigation Skills; Management and Supervision Skills for Gang Specialists; Gang Prosecution; International and Transnational Gangs.

Abstract

This session provides an examination of the nexus in the relationship between gang organization and terrorist groups. It reviews the commonality in the 44 states which have a criminal code definition of gangs. It also examines the ideological connection between gangs and terrorist organizations. This session provides an examination of what is necessary for a conviction. It examines the elements of the criminal conspiracy. Covers gangs and terrorist groups such as the El Rukns, Muslim Brotherhood, Holy Land Foundation, Hezbollah.

Bio

Michael Coghlan was a certified gang specialist accredited through the Illinois Department of Corrections and the Springfield Police Department. He served as a trainer for gang crime specialist certification. He is a recipient of the Thrasher Award and has provided training throughout the United States for the National Law Enforcement Institute. He coordinated the investigation and prosecution of 24 gang members in a series of conspiracies, solicitation, and offenses including drive-by shootings and gang-related murder.

Here is the link to Video #28: https://vimeo.com/447642362

Length of Video #28: 56 minutes 5 seconds

Video #29:

Session #: (10) “The Use of Drones By Gangs To Smuggle Contraband into Correctional Institutions: Part 1 of 3”, by George Knox, Ph.D. and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

Special Note: This session is provided through the NGCRC’s Digital Video Training Platform — the VIDEOPAGE. It is technically ready to view and complete now, before the conference begins. You will automatically get a password for accessing the video training files once you register for the conference.

Abstract

Gangs and STG’s have a long history in trying to control the smuggling of drugs and cell phones into prisons. The use of drones to smuggle contraband into correctional institutions began in earnest in 2013. That’s when four offenders were arrested in a drone smuggling incident at the Calhoun State Prison in Morgan, Georgia. This is a 3 part series of a narrated power point video presentation. Part 1 covers gang involvement with inmate economic rackets and smuggling contraband, and new FAA regulations. The problem of gangs/STG’s using drones and a detailed historical chronology of examples of prison drone smuggling is provided.

Bios

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He was the author of the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to Video #29: https://vimeo.com/486835664

Length of Video #29: 57 minutes 6 seconds

Video #30:

Session #: (30) “The Use of Drones By Gangs To Smuggle Contraband into Correctional Institutions: Part 2 of 3”, by George Knox, Ph.D. and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

Abstract

Part 2 in this series provides recent findings from national jail and prison surveys about drones and smuggling. Financial factors are examined with a look at drone incidents in the federal prison system (BOP). An intensive profile analysis is provided for specific drone investigation and prosecution cases — Operation Cellmate (2014-2017) and the Muzzicato case (2019-2020).

Bios

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He was the author of the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to Video #30: https://vimeo.com/486849407

Length of Video #30: 1 hour 1 minute 4 seconds

Video #31:

Session #: (51) “The Use of Drones By Gangs To Smuggle Contraband into Correctional Institutions: Part 3 of 3”, by George Knox, Ph.D. and D. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gangs and Drugs; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

Abstract

Part 3 provides two more important drone investigation and prosecution case studies — th Kinser case (2018-2020) and the Fort Dix case (2018-2020). The less successful prosecution case involving the 107 Hoover Crips case in the incident at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary is reviewed. Possible covert indicators of drone smuggling are reviewed along with a listing of the most common types of contraband smuggled into prisons. Drone countermeasures and assistance to correctional agencies is discussed. A short 20-question quiz covers the full 3-part training video series.

Bios

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He was the author of the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to Video #31: https://vimeo.com/486858859

Length of Video #31: 58 minutes 41 seconds

Video #32:

Session #: (83) “The Proud Boys: A Gang Threat Analysis - Part 1 of 2”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Session credits: Corrections Gang/STG Intelligence; Dealing With Gang Members in Probation/Parole; Gang Profile Analysis; Domestic Counter-Terrorism; Officer Safety Skills in Dealing With Gangs; Gang Crime Investigation Skills.

Special note on required reading: please read before viewing this video consists of a document located at: https://ngcrc.com/proudboysprofile.pdf

Abstract

The Proud Boys history (2016-2021) has been one of recurrent violent criminal behavior. It has many of the features commonly found in gang life (special rules for behavior, initiation rites, secret codes and language, color patterns, symbols, clothing preferences, etc). It is shown that independent gang research has previously detected the presence of the Proud Boys as a gang or STG problem in the 2019 national survey of gang problems in U.S. jails. There are many other established and emerging white racist extremist gangs in the U.S., but the Proud Boys are not known to have established any kind of positive alliance with any of them. It would be more reasonable to predict that if the Proud Boys are imprisoned and ended up side-by-side with other STG’s, especially white racist extremist gangs, that they might be among the first to want to do harm to Proud Boy inmates. The militaristic culture of the Proud Boys is examined as well as the historical issue of gangs having a connection to the White House.

Bio

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He was the author of the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to Video #32: https://vimeo.com/527982525

Length of Video #32: 59 minutes 45 seconds

Video #33:

Session #: (84) “The Proud Boys: A Gang Threat Analysis - Part 2 of 2”, by George W. Knox, Ph.D., NGCRC Staff.

One (1) hour

Special note on required reading: please read before viewing this video consists of a document located at: https://ngcrc.com/proudboysprofile.pdf

Abstract

The analysis takes a brief look at sixteen Proud Boys, most of whom were participants in the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The militaristic culture of the Proud Boys is examined as well as the historical issue of gangs having a connection to the White House. It is concluded that even the oldest gang classification scheme (Thrasher,1927) would define the Proud Boys as a political gang. Little evidence has emerged that the Proud Boys could be defined as a state supported gang. The Proud Boys are more akin to a hybrid or third generation gang. The prediction is that facing overwhelming evidence against them, most Proud Boys facing federal prison for the Capitol attack will plead guilty to reduced charges and the group will disappear into obscurity.

Bio

George Knox earned his Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Chicago. He has extensive field experience with gangs, including interviewing gang members, gang leaders, and gang victims. He has taught in the field of criminal justice and sociology. He serves as the Executive Director of the National Gang Crime Research Center. He was the author of the first full textbook on gangs (An Introduction to Gangs) and other books and monographs on gang topics. His research interests include how to deal with gang problems in probation/parole, juvenile corrections, adult corrections, and gang threat analysis — examining the gang as a unit of social organization.

Here is the link to Video #33: https://vimeo.com/527992007

Length of Video #33: 57 minutes 11 seconds

- - -

Some of the Advantages of the NGCRC’s New Video-Based Gang Training:

1. You have lots of choices, over 30 hours of training content to pick from. You need only log in 24 hours, so you have extra credit training if you want it: you can watch the entire 30+ hours of content. You just get credit for 24 hours. The 24 hours is our normal training time for any level of certification.

2. If you have previously attended NGCRC training, you can use the video-based training system to upgrade your level of certification.

3. Just print off your Evaluation Form from the NGCRC website (https://ngcrc.com/videoevalform.pdf), navigate to the video you want to watch, type in the password we give you, and log in whatever time you spend in the video on your Evaluation Form. Just like in the face-to-face classroom training in Chicago.

Some Q & A About the Video Training Program:

Q: Is there a reduced rate if I just want to take all of the required 24 hours of training through the Video Training Program?

A: No. The Video Training Program is simply provided as an enhancement to the existing classroom based training program. You sign up for either non-certification or certification. There is no reduction in cost if you just want to use the video-based training courses only to complete your 24 hours.

Q: If I just did my full 24 hours through the Video Training Program and did not actually show up in Chicago, would I still be getting what other people get?

A: No way. First, if you don’t show up in Chicago to get your conference ID, you won’t get a goody bag. We do not mail out goody bags to people who do not show up for the conference. You just lose out on a goody bag if you are not physically present to claim it. And with over 100 courses to pick from in the existing classroom curriculum, you have a much better and much more extensive set of training options to pick from if you attend the actual classroom training. If you restrict yourself to video only training, you restrict yourself to only those smaller choices. And one of the most valuable benefits would be forfeited by definition if you did not show up in Chicago: the social networking advantages.

Q: Can I download the videos?

A: No, you can live stream them, watch them one at a time, but you cannot download them. You can watch and re-watch them.

Q: How long do I have to watch the videos and send in my Evaluation Form?

A: Until the official end of the conference (8-6-2025). You can watch the videos as many times as you like. The password for video access expires 8-6-2025. You will not have access to the videos after that expiration date. It is your duty to hand in an evaluation form before you can complete the program. Evaluation forms also need to be handed in on or before 8-6-2025. You need to have a plan to fax or mail the Evaluation Form to the NGCRC so that it is postmarked by the U.S. Postal Service on or before 8-7-2024 (fax to: 708 258-9546, mail to: NGCRC, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468).

Q: Can I effectively watch the videos on a smart phone?

A: No. You need to use a laptop or personal computer, a full screen tablet at a minmum. A smart phone won’t work very well for the purpose of using these training videos. A lot of the videos use powerpoint slides containing significant amounts of narrative information you need to read. You need a PC sized screen, or laptop, anything with a large screen to display the information you need to read.

Q: I plan on actually being in Chicago and actually attending some of the classes, but I also want to complete some classes from the Video-based Training Program, how do I get credit for both?

A. When you first register for the NGCRC 2024 Training Conference, you are sent a password, you can start using it in the Video-Based Training Program anytime you want. Consider printing off the evaluation form the moment you view your first training video, so you can give a rating for that session and indicate the amount of time you spent in that session number on your evaluation form. Just mark it as completed on your evaluation form.

Q: Do I get credit for the time it takes to complete the required or recommended reading for a session?

A: No, you are expected to have to spend time on a reading assignment if it is recommended for a video session.

Q: Do all of the instructors have “tests” or “quizzes” for their sessions?

A: No, that is something the individual instructor may or may not require and it is always made explicit in the session description information. So there are no surprises.

Q: Are the training videos “interactive”, can the student who is watching the video ask the instructor a question during the presentation?

A: No. They are videos. There is nothing socially interactive between the trainee viewing the training session and the trainer who is making the presentation in the training session. Nothing here implies that the instructor has any duty or obligation to interact with the person viewing the video. Nor is this level of direct contact promised in any context other than the direct face-to-face in-classroom training sessions that go on at the physical site of the training conference — the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel, Chicago, IL. If you want to ask a question to the presenter, it will not be possible in the videopage training sessions. Asking a question to the presenter would be possible only in the regular face-to-face classroom based training sessions.

Q: If I complete all of my hours through the Video Training Program, will my certificate of training reflect that it was “video-based”?

A: Yes. There is a big difference in the quality of training and experiences comparing the video-only versus classroom-based training sessions. So if all of your training was completed in the Video Training Program, your certificate will have to reflect that you completed your required hours of training in the Video Training Program.

Q: What if I completed only 8 hours of the Video Training Program, can I still graduate?

A: No, you need to accumulate your 24 hours of video training on or before the end of the scheduled conference to graduate. Your evaluation form is due at the NGCRC on or before 6:00pm, August 3, 2022.

Q: Can I get an extension for the completion of the Video Training Program?

A: No, video access ends when the regular conference ends, 5:00pm, August 6, 2025.

For a full LISTING OF VIDEO TRAINING SESSIONS go to https://ngcrc.com/videopage.html

- - - -

Remember: your regular evaluation form is given to you when you get your conference I.D. ad "good bag". You use that evaluation form to evaluate classroom based courses and other issues. But if you are seeking credit for any of the Video Page materials, then you need to use the Video Training Page Evaluaion Form --- copy provided below.

For the Video Training Page Evaluation Form --- highlight it with your mouse, copy it (control c) to a new page, print it, complete it, send it in. You can also hand it in along with your regular Evaluation Form at the conference site.

If you want to look at it prior to coming to the conference, the regular evaluation form is located at the website, just print it off: https://ngcrc.com/evaluationform.pdf

You need to take that regular evalution form with you to each and every session you attend. It is sufficient to just use the regular evaluation form to report your sessions attended or videos viewed.

- - - - - - - -

Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2021 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2021 Twenty Fourth NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 2-4, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated over time as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2021 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2021 some 57.7 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 42.3 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

So a little over half of the attendees in 2021 had no prior training on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2021 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 95.3 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2021 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”. We even offered more choices during the challenging conditions of a pandemic.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2021 Evaluation Form asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 75.9 percent of those attending the 2021 conference did so for the first time. In other words, just under a fourth (some 24.1 percent) of those who attended the 2021 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2021 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 82.1 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2021 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the 2022 NGCRC 25th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 92.7 percent of those who attended the 2021 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2022 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2021 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 94.4 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2021 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 94.4 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2021 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 62.6 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events. There were five (5) different social networking receptions available free to attendees at the 2021 NGCRC training conference.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 8.04 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that almost half of those who attended, or 57.9 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

MANY ATTENDED AN EVENING WHITE SOX BASEBALL GAME

The exit survey question in the evaluation form ask the attendees “did you attend the White Sox Baseball Networking Event on Tuesday night”? The results from the Evaluation Form data analysis show that 40.4 percent indicated participating in this popular event.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 9.02 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support. Scoring a 9.01 on a zero to 10 scale is an “A” in anyones book.

HOURS OF TRAINING COMPLETED USING THE NGCRC’S “VIDEO-PAGE” TRAINING OPTION

The evaluation form asked “how many training hours did you complete on the VideoPage.html video training program”? The range of scores varied between a low of zero hours for about half of the participants (48.4%), to a high of 36 hours. The mean score was 4.42 hours completed using the video-page option.

MOST STAYED AT THE OFFICIAL CONFERENCE HOTEL

The evaluation form also included the question “Did you stay at the Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel”? The results show that most (82.1%) did in fact stay at the Westin. And they gave it high satisfaction ratings (8.55 mean score on a zero to ten rating system).

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2021 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (63.2%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 30 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 93.2 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.53 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2021 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

- - - -

What's New: Quotes from those Who Attended the 2021 NGCRC Training Conference

The qualitative evaluation results are now in from the 2021 NGCRC Training Conference held on Aug. 2-4, 2021 in Chicago, IL. These are the comments quoted directly from those who attended the 2021 NGCRC Training Conference. If we had to summarize it all, it would be this: "Liked the networking and variety of topics and class options, the diversity of different perspectives from knowledgeable presenters, and the help from amicable staff, who thoroughly organize an upbeat training venue where sworn and non-sworn personnel can work towards gang violence reduction."

“The number of training sessions offered has to be one of the best things about the training! Every time selection had at least one session relevant and enjoyable. The fact this conference is held in Chicago is the reason I keep coming back. Wonderful city with excitement on every corner ”, Jerred Adkins, Franklin County Juvenile Intervention Center, Columbus, OH.

“The presentations were awesome”, Captain Darryl Michelli, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Baton Rouge, LA.

“It was planned and organized very well”, Laura Frizzo, Criminal Analyst, Indiana HIDTA, Crown Point, IN.

“The ability to network with others from all over the country. I learned things in classes and while speaking with others that I can use in my department”, Christopher Thompson, York City Police Department, York, PA.

“The location of the conference, central location within a large city/various tourist area, was greatly appreciated. The variety of after conference activities makes this conference so unique”, Det. Matthew Rose, Spokane Police Dept., Spokane Regional Safe Streets Task Force,

Spokane, WA

“Networking and diversity of classes”, Michael A. Garner, DPS Criminal Investigator

Louisiana State Police, Houma, LA.

“Variety of courses both in person and on video”, Leena M. Marcos, Office of the State Attorney, 20^th Circuit Florida, Fort Myers, FL.

“Great content. I love being able to prep online and video classes in the evening to get hours completed”, Aaron J. Watkins, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“The best thing is I had the opportunity to meet with some wonderful people who all are trying to make changes in their communities”, Omar Martin, Violence Interrupter, Life Camp, Inc, Jamaica, NY.

“Networking. Great topics and many track to choose from”, Det. Dustin Clem, Louisville Metro Police, Louisville, KY.

“Very organized, useful information I intend on passing a lot of this information on in my office to better our approach referencing gangs/narcotics prosecutions”, Amy Ohtani, Assistant State’s Attorney, Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office, Rockford, IL.

“There were a lot of good instructors in many areas, who are knowledgeable in their areas of study”, Det. Callie D. Basinger, Allen County Sheriff’s Office, Lima, OH.

“I loved learning new information from staff, but also participants. It was eye opening to see what other agencies are doing to help with prevention as well intervention”, Christal Hudgins

Training Sergeant, Hualapai Juvenile Detention & Rehabilitation Center, Kingman, AZ.

“Variety of topics covered by instructors with diverse backgrounds”, Mike Merritt, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“The information shared by presenters were exceptionally rich, detailed and technical. Presenters came with much knowledge of their particular areas of specialization”, Julian Brooks, University of the West Indies (UWI), Institute of Criminal Justice and Security, Kingston, Jamaica.

“Hospitality and knowledge gained. Networking with different professionals”, Jaskirat Jessy Johaz, Gang Reduction Lead, Safer Schools Together, Vancouver, BC, Canada.

“Presenters are very knowledgeable”, Matt Boss, Lima Police Dept., Lima, OH.

“The presenters had a wealth of knowledge via experience to share. We were given some take-a-ways that could be implemented in out communities to improve public safety”, Anita Howard, District Attorney’s Office, Macon, GA.

“The numerous options in topics presented at the training allows every attendee to tailor the experience to their specific area of practice or interests”, Kadin Brown, Deputy District Attorney, Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office, Harrisburg, PA

”I really appreciated the ability to watch video presentations”, Nelson G. Barao, U.S. Pretrial Services, Northern District of California, San Francisco, CA.

“Very and relaxed atmosphere, friendly and helpful volunteers, and knowledgeable staff”, Daniel James Hiscock, Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, Adrian, MI.

“Knowing the difference between gang signs”, Ikim Brown, G.M.A.C.C., Inc, Brooklyn, NY.

“The best part about the conference in the wide-range of seminars to attend with diverse content that you are able to select on your own. The entire conference kept me entertained and I am returning home filled with knowledge to make me a better professional! Thank you”, Deven Freihofer, NFI MA Inc / DYS, North Andover, MA.

“The NGCRC continues to bring talented skilled speakers to the conference. The training tracks allow you to grow your knowledge in different areas of law enforcement and community based services”, Sharon Mashburn, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“There were a lot of great classes and presenters, more than any other gang conference I’d been to, and I especially enjoyed the classes on police/community collaboration and state/federal collaboration”, Jeffrey Corley, City of Mobile Police Department, Mobile, AL.

“The opportunity to understand, share and learn different perspectives both nationally and internationally” Wayne Grannis, Judge of the Juvenile Court of Cobb County, Marietta, GA.

“Very free flowing allowed to take whatever class you want to and leave and come as you want”, Thomas French Jr., Harford County Sheriff’s Office, Bel Air, MD.

“I really enjoyed the variety of information as well as video options, I also enjoyed the mix of academia and first hand officer speakers (allowed for multiple perspectives)”, Angela Wirsching, Office of the States Attorney for Harford County, Bel Air, MD.

“This is my first conference and I enjoyed it . I learned a lot and made some contacts, even assisting with a gang case while here because of it. I had a lot of classes to choose from and I enjoyed getting to learn it all”, Dillon Lipinski, Franklin Police Department, Franklin, TN.

“The best experience was definitely connecting with members from other law enforcement agencies. Having the opportunity to connect with law enforcement from other states is a huge benefit offered by attending a gang conference. It offers insight on trends and gives way to real time present day interactions that current gang detectives have”, Det. Jeremy Tanner, Greensboro Police Dept., Greensboro, NC.

“The variety of speakers and viewpoints. The location was fantastic and I learned a lot”, Sara Anne Miller, Office of the State Attorney, Fort Myers, FL.

“I enjoyed choosing what classes I wanted to attend instead of just going to assigned classes”, Sgt. Justin Hendrickson, Twin Falls Police Department, Twin Falls, ID.

“Good people, well organized, reliable resources, networking, love around the building”, Avery Carter, Violence Interrupter, reNOUNce deNOUNce Gang Intervention Program, East Cleveland, OH.

“The number and variety of presenters at this conference is outstanding along with the ability to move easily from course to course allows you to customize your learning experiences”, Philip J. Swift, Forth Worth City Marshal, Fort Worth, TX.

“Networking and knowledge”, Thomas Richard Rieder, Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, Adrian, MI.

“Great training and content. Presenters were very knowledgeable and efficient”, James Zolnai, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“Diversity in course offerings with opportunities to choose specific interests was very helpful”, Robert G. Whismanm Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office, Kansas City, KS.

“The training as a whole was wonderful”, Agent Richard T. Hunter Jr., Terrebonne Parish Sheriffs Office, Houma, LA.

“Varied lenses of experiences in presenters and networking opportunity!’, Hannah Robeson, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“Great training”, Lt. Bobby Moore, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Baton Rouge, LA.

“Knowledge and experience of presenters”, Jordan Molnar, Lenawee County Sheriff’s Office, Adrian, MI.

“A wide variety of class options makes it easy to come away with something to take back to your home department”, Sgt. Jimmy Ward, Floyd County Sheriff’s Dept., New Albany, IN.

“Presenters were effective and enthusiastic”, Vincent James, Gang Specialist, Elmont, NY.

“Networking/exchange of information”, Bartosz Nowak, Macomb County Sheriff Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Networking with people from departments around the U.S.”, Keith Thome, Macomb County Sheriff Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Learned new information on prosecuting gang members more successfully”, Patrick Lawrence Morgan, United States Marshals Service, Oklahoma City, OK.

“Networking was good”, Jared Jupin, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“Great information provided”, Andrea Jones, Franklin County Juvenile Intervention Center, Columbus, OH.

“Lots to offer, a variety of tracks to pick from”, Tony Schmit, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“The 2 classes I took that referenced recent events and trends”, Patrick Gibbs, Springdale Police Department, Springdale, AR.

“Good networking. Lots of networking”, Det. Sgt. Brad Delaney, Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, Mason, MI.

“The trainers were very knowledgeable and the crew in reception was very amicable”, Tiffany Lamela, GMAAC, Inc, Brooklyn, NY.

“Learned many new aspects and angles when conducting investigations and interviews”, Travis Sanford, Terrebonne Parish Sheriffs Office, Houma, LA.

“The chance to meet the non-law enforcement people here”, Det. Chris Cobb, Terrebonne Parish Sheriffs Office, Houma, LA.

“All of the great contacts I received”, Mike Hollandsworth, Indiana State Police, Ft. Wayne, IN.

“I learned and the Christian networking was awesome!”, Shakeva Frazier, City of Danville, City Managers Office, Danville, VA.

“I got to see things from a law enforcement perspective”, Det. Andre Robinson, Salisbury Police Department, Salisbury, MD.

“Video training very helpful to get requirement turned in”, Brian Daniels, Havre de Grace Police Department, Havre de Grace, MD.

“I learned a lot and helps improve social and mental skills when mediating conflicts”, Dashawn Martin, G.M.A.C.C., Inc, Brooklyn, NY.

“No one went past their time”, Wallee Comer, G.M.A.C.C., Inc, Brooklyn, NY.

“Great venue, interesting classes”, John A. Billingsley IV, Springdale Police Dept., Springdale, AR.

“NGCRC does not disappoint, I’ll be back for 2022", Randilynn Rodriguez, Gang Specialist, Great Falls, MT.

“Great content”, Robert T. David Sr., City of Danville, Danville, VA.

“Great learning opportunity and great instructors will come back next year”, Cordell Perian, Monroe County Correctional Center, Bloomington, IN.

“The variety of classes”, James Mellow, Gwinnett County Police, Lawrenceville, GA.

“Hotel was great, specifically the location. Cases on prosecution and investigation were most beneficial”, Det. William Joseph Gibbs, Metro Nashville Police Department, Nashville, TN.

“Met a lot of cool people”, James Quinton Bernard, Wyoming Dept. Of Public Safety, Wyoming, MI.

“The amount of training”, Det. Justin Miller, Metro Nashville Police Department, Nashville, TN.

“The overall experience was great, will attend again”, Dominic Mazzone, Worcester Police Dept., Worcester, MA.

“The scheduling was very organized. The organization as a whole was great. Also, good instructors and teaching methods”, John Denio, Worcester Police Dept., Worcester, MA.

“Large selection of courses”, Michael Cook, Mobile Police Department, Mobile, AL.

“Instructors, Networking, Ball game”, Mickey Sheehan, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

Kent County Prosecutors Office, Grand Rapids, MI.

“Able to meet the preseners who have so much knowledge”, Freddy R. Galicia, Calcasieu Parish Sheriffs Office, Lake Charles, LA.

“Lots of networking potential”, Nathaniel Shaughnessy, Will County Sheriff’s Office, Joliet, IL.

“I came in with a plan on what I wanted to attend but there were so much offered that I added sessions in my gaps to learn more”, Kevin Kedrowski, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office,

Minneapolis, MN.

“Learned a lot, very helpful”, Laron Douglas Sr., Executive Director, reNOUNce deNOUNce Gang Intervention Program, Cleveland, OH.

“Good selection of topics”, Det. Christopher Robinson, Salisbury Police Department, Salisbury, MD.

“Great training”, Matthew Davis, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Muncie, IN.

“Law enforcement presenters excellent”, James D. Miller, Office of the State Attorney,

Fort Myers, FL.

“Variety, participation and networking”, Bernie Rendler, Intensive Supervision Officer

Dauphin County Probation, Harrisburg, PA.

“Mulvaney’s participation model was engaging and helpful. Lots of variety in sessions”, C. Michael Carter, Intensive Supervision Officer, Dauphin County Probation, Harrisburg, PA.

“Learning the information. It was enlightening”, Sheridan Lawson, Violence Interrupter

reNOUNce deNOUNce Gang Intervention Program, Cleveland, OH.

“The professional manner it was handled”, Lisa Meredith, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Louisville, KY.

“The history lesson about gang organization”, Neal Downs, , Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Louisville, KY.

“The networking opportunity that came with spending the time here”, Alexis Matos, Havre de Grace Police Department, Havre de Grace, MD.

“The courteous atmosphere. Also the information from each training”, Leigha Curry, Outreach Worker, Life Camp, Inc, Jamaica, NY.

“The networking and the appreciation of the work we do”, Charles Gallman, Senior Tactical Agent, Life Camp, Inc, Jamaica, NY.

“Networking”, Christopher Hawthorne, Fort Wayne Police Dept., Ft. Wayne, IN.

“The networking opportunity and the diversity of participants”, Bryan Harris, Case Manager, DOCR, Mandan, ND.

“So many speakers”, William Jones, Hospital Responder Supervisor, Life Camp, Inc,

Jamaica, NY.

“Glad this year was back to Westin. Great room and place for a conference”, Sgt. Christopher Moore, Joliet Police Department, Joliet, IL.

“Daily opportunities to network with other agencies”, Zachary P. Eastburn, Fort Wayne Police Dept., Ft. Wayne, IN.

“Enjoy networking”, Marc Deshaies, Fort Wayne Police Dept., Ft. Wayne, IN.

“Great experience”, Corey Lightner, Aberdeen Police Department, Aberdeen, MD.

“This is my third year attending and each year I have a great experiences and always learn something new”, James Sutphin, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

“The knowledge of all the presenters”, Anita Perez, Sergeant, Hualapai Juvenile Detention & Rehabilitation Center, Kingman, AZ.

“Good variety of classes, nice hotel, knowledgeable instructors”, Sarah Egbert, Flint Police Department, Flint, MI.

“Learned a lot of new information”, Terry VanKeuren Jr., Flint Police Department, Flint, MI.

“Very informative, inclusive, organized. Overall, great event”, Caleb A. Tierney, Flint Police Department, Flint, MI.

“Networking”, Daniel Testermann, Harford County Sheriff’s Office, Bel Air, MD.

“Loved the variety of courses, instructors, and attendees! Like the size of rooms provided and technological amenities for presenters”, Katherine Rumley, Office of the State Attorney

20^th Circuit Florida, Ft. Myers, FL.

- - - -

Statistical Evaluation Results from the

2020 NGCRC Training Conference:

INTRODUCTION

The 2020 Twenty Third NGCRC Gang Specialist Training Conference was held during August 3-5, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. The statistical evaluation results are reported here from the large number of persons attending the conference who provided such evaluation surveys. What this documents is an amazing level of “success” as measured in terms of the satisfaction of those who attended.

The bottom line finding here is that the NGCRC offers training that is consistently rated over time as exceptional in value and quality.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS THOSE WITH AND WITHOUT PRIOR TRAINING ON GANGS

One statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2020 NGCRC training conference reveals the NGCRC attracts those with and without prior training in gangs. The question on the evaluation form was “Have you received training at other gang seminars?“ In fact, for 2020 some 35.1 percent indicated that they had not previously received any training about gangs. Thus, some 64.9 percent of those attending the NGCRC training conference indicated that they had in fact been previously trained on gangs.

So about 1/3 of the attendees in 2020 had no prior training while about two-thirds have had prior training on gangs.

FEW ARGUE WITH THE FACTS: THE NGCRC OFFERS MORE CHOICES THAN ANYONE ELSE

One very powerful statistical result from the evaluation forms completed by those attending the 2020 NGCRC conference relates to the number of choices a person does or does not have in terms of different options for classes to attend. In some training programs there is no choice at all, or few or very limited choices. Some 96.2 percent of those attending the NGCRC 2020 conference reported that “compared to other gang conferences I have attended, the NGCRC had more choices for sessions”. We even offered more choices during the challenging conditions of a pandemic.

THE NGCRC ATTRACTS NEW AND REPEAT TRAINEES

The NGCRC 2020 Evaluation Survey asked the trainees whether this was the first time they had attended an NGCRC conference. The question on the evaluation form was, “This is the first time I have ever attended one of the Gang Training Conferences by the NGCRC.” The results indicated that 65.8 percent of those attending the 2020 conference did so for the first time. In other words, just over a third (some 34.2 percent) of those who attended the 2020 conference did in fact have previous training at an official NGCRC training conference.

OVERWHELMING MAJORITY REPORT “BEST GANG TRAINING EVER”

As a testament to the high quality of the training experience at the 2020 NGCRC training conference, another significant statistical result from the evaluation indicated an exceptionally high level of satisfaction with the training. Some 77.1 percent of those attending the conference reported that it was, “in my opinion, the best gang training event I have ever attended.” Such high levels of praise from people all over the USA and abroad are indeed hard to achieve.

ALMOST EVERYONE WANTS TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR

Another measure of the validity of high levels of satisfaction among those attending the NGCRC’’s 2020 conference is found in the results to the question measuring intention to “come back next year”.

The evaluation instrument included the following question: “I would like to attend the 2021 NGCRC 24th International Gang Specialist Training Conference that the National Gang Crime Research Center is currently planning. ___True ___False”.

Some 94.6 percent of those who attended the 2020 conference indicated that they want to attend the 2021 conference as well.

ACHIEVING NETWORKING: A GUARANTEED RESULT AT THE NGCRC CONFERENCE

The first question asked, “Did you meet any new gang specialists that you may be able to network with in the future while you were at this conference”. The results of the evaluation question about whether the participants at the 2020 NGCRC training conference were able to achieve networking showed an astounding 97.3 percent reported that they were able to achieve such networking while at the conference.

The second question sought to establish a baseline for how important the factor of “networking” was to those attending the 2020 NGCRC conference. The second question therefore asked the participants “Was the opportunity to network with other gang specialists something that you wanted to achieve while at this conference?” Here we find that 97.2 percent indicated that networking was an important goal for them at the conference. Based on this, it is safe to say that everyone achieved their goal of networking at the 2020 NGCRC Training Conference.

A number of specialized “networking receptions” were available to anyone who wanted to participate in these events during after hours. These are well planned and well managed events designed to enhance networking among professionals. Thus, a third and final question about networking in the evaluation survey asked, “Did you attend any of the special networking receptions?” Here we find that over two-thirds, some 66.7 percent, attended one or more of these specialized reception events. There were four (4) different social networking receptions available free to attendees at the 2020 NGCRC training conference.

VERY HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH THE QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF TAKE HOME TRAINING MATERIALS

A second question asked, “How satisfied were you with the quantity of take home training materials provided to you?” And here again a very high score emerges, a mean value of 8.83 was found for this factor.

MANY WON SOMETHING IN ONE OF THE RAFFLES

There are various raffles at the NGCRC conference, some occur at the networking receptions and some are scheduled through the Operations Center.

The evaluation form asked the conference participants, “Did you win anything in any of the raffles?” The results indicated that almost three-fourths of those who attended, or 74.3 percent of those attending the conference, reported winning something in one of the raffles.

HIGH LEVELS OF SATISFACTION WITH NGCRC STAFF

The evaluation form included the question “How satisfied were you with the staff and volunteers of the National Gang Crime Research Center in terms of making your experience at the training conference a quality time?”. The results indicated a mean score of 9.02 on a scale between zero and ten, again a very high level of satisfaction with the NGCRC staff. The staff provide a number of useful functions to the conference participants, from security to equipment technician support. As we tell our trainers, scoring a 9.02 on a zero to 10 scale is an “A” in anyones book.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS GAVE “HIGH GRADES” TO THE NGCRC AS AN OVERALL EVALUATION RESULT

Finally, another question on the evaluation form asked the 2020 NGCRC conference participants to “Give us your grade for how we did overall in trying to make this conference experience a good one for you. For a final grade, I give this conference an ___A ___B ___C ___D ___F.”

The results indicated that most (72.2%) gave the NGCRC an “A”. An additional 20.8 percent gave the NGCRC a grade of “B”. Thus, 93 percent of the trainees rated the NGCRC training experience as an “A” or “B”, the highest possible grades. Again, from a different way of measuring the same thing (overall training experience), we find additional strong evidence of a high level of satisfaction among persons who attended the conference. A GPA of 3.63 (where 4=A, 3=B, 2=C,1=D,0=F) was the mean score from this analysis. Thus, conference attendees gave the NGCRC an overall grade of “A minus/B Plus” it would appear from the 2020 evaluation results: again, a remarkable achievement.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

These scores and achievements by the NGCRC in its 2020 gang training program were completely in line with previous years except for the COVID-related changes. The NGCRC operated in strict compliance with the COVID-19 restrictions for the classroom based training held in Chicago. All evaluations analyzed here came from those trainees actually attending the Chicago training event held in 2020 at the JW Marriott Hotel. This was the year the NGCRC also developed a video-based training system, where trainees could complete 24-hours of training alone from the remote digital training platform if they wanted to — they would not have been required to be present in the Chicago classrooms or stay at any Chicago hotel as they could have just stayed at home and viewed the NGCRC’s new video-based training program.

- - - - -

Qualitative Evaluation Results from the 2020 NGCRC Conference: Comments From Those Who Attended the Aug. 3-5, 2020 NGCRC 23rd Gang Training Conference

Comments from those Who Attended the Aug. 3-5, 2020 NGCRC’s 23^rd Gang Training Conference:

“The wealth of knowledge and expendables shared by presenters and attendees.” Lt. Tim L. Selvia, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The variety of classes was great, networking opportunities also great. Covid-19 definitely had an impact on the conference but I think the NGCRC did an excellent job putting on the event with the restrictions they had. Looking forward to next year.” Penny M. Hestand, Crime Analyst, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“The entire conference was informative, the commitment and efficiency of the NGCRC is impressive and already looking forward to 2021.” Randilynn Rodriguez, Cascade County Attorney’s Office, Great Falls, MT.

“The wealth of knowledge and brilliance of the minds here are priceless. Life is funny ... I am hundreds of miles from home, yet still I find myself surrounded by brothers and sisters.” Kristy Eelbode, Michigan Department of Corrections, Macomb, MI.

“Great environment, quality instructors, and overall quality material. I would highly recommend to all police officers even those not specializing in gang work.” Det. Eric Gizzi, Grand Rapids Police Department, Byron Center, MI.

“NGCRC did a great job adapting to the Covid regulation put upon them. They were still able to provide a quality seminar in the midst of adversity.” Det. James Sutphin, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

“The diverse experience and wealth of knowledge was amazing.” Jaime Centeno, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Informative, educational, top quality and top quantity of information to get in such a short period time. Great diversity of topics. The veterans talk was awesome!!” Richard Boling, 3^rd J.C. Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Hopkinsville, KY.

“Able to connect with a lot of different agencies. Can’t wait to come back next year.” Jonathan Masi, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA.

“Once again a great training experience. Great presenters and great material. Special thanks to Dr. Knox for making sure the conference happened this year. Look forward to attending next year.” Christopher Calhoun, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office - Jail Division, Noblesville, IN.

“The experience of all of the presenters was exceptional.” Sergio Rivera, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Presenters have passion for the topics that they teach.” Det. Michael Giannini, Hudson County Prosecutors Office, Jersey City, NJ.

“All of the instructors were incredible. They were very knowledgeable, friendly, and happy to answer any questions. I was able to make great contacts to use in the future. Looking forward to coming back next year.” Kylie Williams, Hamilton County Juvenile Detention Center, Noblesville, IN.

“Great content, presenters. The video sessions were very helpful at getting content that I wanted even though presenters were not able to physically be here.” Matthew S. Rupp, York County Probation Department, York, PA.

“Loved all of it.” Sgt. Christopher Felton, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“I loved all of the knowledge I gained from this week.” Det. Shane Fox, Jonesboro Police Department, Jonesboro, AR.

“The ability to obtain information and network.” Chelsea Donnelly, York County Probation Department, York, PA.

“Always good time.” Marc DeShaies, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“A lot of information.” Randy M. Dixon, N’STEP, Spokane, WA.

“It is very informative.” Le’Taxione, N’STEP, Spokane, WA.

“Networking, new techniques obtaining gang information.” Fred Caruso, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Great Job!! Even with Covid.” Robert David, Danville, VA.

“Very nice staff. Location (Although Westin location is better). Networking.” Bryan Sylvester, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“It was my first time at the conference, there was a lot of good information, location was nice, and it was great talking with other departments.” Jeremy Warner, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“I enjoyed the training at this year’s conference. The change in location made a difference too.” Keith Thome, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Can’t pick just one, everything is good. A lot of knowledge from many different people.” Rayvin Toma, Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“I really appreciated the flexibility and adaptability to pull this off given the health and cultural issues surrounding our society.” Michael Rector, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, Bowling Green, KY.

“Great topics. Learned a lot.” Matthew Davis, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Muncie, IN.

“Great instructors.” Luke Serra, Rock Island Police Department, Rock Island, IL.

“Extremely knowledgeable instructors and class material.” Robert Goins, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“The trainers/presenters presented very informative research for me to share with my department.” Kodie Boyer, Noble County Sheriff’s Department, Albion, IN.

“Great info!” Marlon Pratt, N’STEP, Spokane, WA.

“Great information and presenters.” Emerico Gonzalez, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“The positive attitudes in dealing with the pandemic.” Jimmy Ward, Floyd County Sheriff’s Department, New Albany, IN.

“Tactical Interviewing.” Vincent Calvino, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“Meeting others, seeing their perspectives on gangs in different locations, and the variety of presentations.” Kyle Newcomb, Danville Police Department, Danville, VA.

“That NGCRC was committed to still make this experience happen and brought great trainers.” Ronald B. Waddell Jr., Legendary Legacies, Inc, Worcester, MA.

“There was online courses.” Joy McClain, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

“The amount of available materials.” Matthew Bowie, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington, NC.

“Networking. Instructors.” Peter Woodin, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Wilmington, NC.

“Learned the information provided, going home well educated.” Marvin Marino Mejia, Delaware Department of Corrections, Georgetown, DE.

“Great networking opportunities.” Gabriel Rodriguez, Legendary Legacies, Inc, Worcester, MA.

“Learned other peoples perspectives and ideas. Also a good networking event.” Tyler Hodges, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“It was a wealth of knowledge!!! Great training experience!!!” Melvin Branch, Chicago Police Department, Chicago, IL.

- - - -

THE NGCRC's COVID-19 COMPLIANCE POLICY

As always, the NGCRC will comply to the letter of the law with any existing governmental guidelines regarding COVID-19 if applicable in 2025.

- - - -

Quotes from Those Who Attended the NGCRC's 2019 (Aug. 5-7, 2019) Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago.

Here are the findings from this aspect of the evaluation. As seen by the many examples, they provide very important feedback about the effectiveness of the training program and levels of satisfaction with different aspects of the conference and its curriculum and speakers/presenters.

“Quality training”. Matt Messer, PCAT Officer, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“The knowledge and experiences of the presenters and they were very organized”. Jeremy Campbell, K-9 Sgt / STG Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Corrections, Pine Bluff, AR.

“This was a first class training and the best I’ve attended. The accommodations was outstanding. Everyone was very friendly and will to go out of the way to make it a success. The students that volunteered were very professional and polite. Last but not least, the tour to meet brother Raymond was uplifting and outstanding. I will take all I’ve learned to continue to make a difference”. Jimmy Neason, National Youth Advocate Program, Decatur, GA.

“Very informative. Very professional instructors and staff. Will definitely recommend other officers to attend this training in the future. Look forward to coming back”. Christopher Calhoun, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department, Jail Division, Noblesville, IN.

“The knowledge gained for me with 20 years of prosecution experience proves you can teach an old dog new tricks”. Michael Tabarrok, Senior District Attorney, Dougherty District Attorney’s Office, Albany, GA.

“Truly a great variety of speakers from prosecutors to academics to law enforcement to victim advocates. I really enjoyed hearing their perspectives. I thought the gang expert testimony class/presenters were exceptional. Sex trafficking presentations also outstanding.” Jeffrey Hawkins, Senior Assistant District Attorney, Clayton County District Attorney’s Office, Jonesboro, GA.

“Being able to network with gang investigators from all over the globe.” Shawn O’Brien, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“Learning from experts and fellow members of the field from all across the country and world. I got to meet gang prosecutors from New Your who gave me great insight into how to approach prosecuting gang case. Also, session 50, Her Time, was by far the best presentation at the conference. What more two detectives do is amazing.” Anda Lopazan, Hall County District Attorneys Office, Gainesville, GA.

“Having instructors and individuals From a broad range of backgrounds and careers leads a real world feel to this training. Learning how perceptions differ with the same information is vital to bridging the gap.” Jimmy Ward, Floyd County Sheriff’s Department, New Albany, IN.

“I loved this conference. The material presented, knowledge gained, and connections made makes this conference the gold standard, unparalleled to any other training opportunities.” Jennifer Marie Torp, City of Marietta Police, Marietta, GA.

“The staff, the hotel, the training sessions offered are all top notch. Chicago is an awesome city with lots of options following the training. This was my second year in attendance and I plan to return each time I have the opportunity.” Jerred Adkins, Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center, Columbus, OH.

“The opportunities to learn from and network with specialists nationally and internationally”. Judge Wayne E. Grannis, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“There are a lot of classes to choose from which allows you to cover multiple topics & issues.” Timothy Sims, Gwinett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“I learned a lot. It was nice to talk with others in my field who have similar experiences. I like sharing ideas and strategies with other. I loved how religion/faith was incorporated into the conference.” Alysia Mason, Gangs and Disputes Analyst, Rochester Police Department, Rochester, NY.

“Networking with other professionals in the field and learning new ways to help the youth in the gang life styles”. Dwayne Melton, State Training School, Eldora, IA.

“The extra sessions were great to allow a little flexibility in the schedule.” Cor Nieuwland, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“Instructors were well educated on their perespective topics”. Calvin Kennon, Comprehensive Life Resources, Tacoma, WA.

“Broad range of classes to choose from and attend.” Det. Chad Jeffries, Pueblo Police Department, Pueblo, CO.

“Excellent speakers who are passionate and knowledge in the field.” Sandy Avelar, Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Quality of presenters, choice of sessions, and facilities.” Philip J Swift, Marshal, Fort Worth, TX.

“Well organized & good networking opportunities”. Nicholas Minder, Chief of Police, Concord Schools Police Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Enjoyed the variety of sessions & networking opportunities. Extremely valuable information that I will definitely apply to my daily work life. Such as ... training own team, updating curriculum, and informing clients.” Jessica Martinez, Gang Alternatives Program, Wilmington, CA.

“Networking was great. There was a variety of classes on numerous topics to attend.” Christopher Pittman, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“Ability to network with other gang specialists”, Keith J. Thome, Macomb County Sheriff’s, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“I have always sent my staff to this training and this year their were tracks for me as a manager that I felt would take as I look to increase staff on the streets, also bridging the gap with our school district. Lots of work to do maybe they can send a rep with me next year to curb the violence”, Raymond Mayoliz, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“The conference was very helpful in that I learned information that I can use to take back to my agency the start of new programs”, Sean M. Audy, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“As law enforcement, I appreciate the opportunity to learn the other side of gang work. The mental health components of gang involved youth is something some law enforcement are not trained in”, Marco A. Ayala

“You guys stayed professional from start to finish”, Meng Lor, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.

“Todd Negola was awesome and very real. He made us think outside the box. I walked away with a lot of new ways of thinking (looking at things). Captain Swift and Grant Smith did a awesome job too!”, Capt. Joanne Clarey, Georgetown County, Georgetown, SC.

“Lots of options in a condensed space and time frame. Great job”, Maria Duffy, U.S. Probation, St. Louis, MO.

“Excellent training as always”, Sgt. Thomas Strausborger, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Very good training”. Marc Deshaies, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Experienced instructors with good material”. David Wilkins, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Networking”. Christopher Hawthorne, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Very informative. Met a lot of great people. Instructors were very knowledgeable.” Tim Reidy, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Waukegan, IL.

“The ability to network with other professionals from across the country + different agencies.” Summer T. Carney, Department of Justice - U.S. Attorney’s Office, Louisville, KY.

“The breath of knowledge I picked up was tremendous.” Luis Salinas, Houston Community College, Houston, TX.

“The experience that the trainers have. Instructor Todd Negola stood out the most. Mr. Negola was very level headed, real + personal.” Clarence O’Neal, Palos Hills Police Department, Palos Hills, IL.

“Networking-good mix of attendees”. Debbie Kays, Branchy Manager, Kentucky Department of Corrections, Frankfort, KY.

“The class selection was very nice. The selections allowed you to have a wide variety of choices to choose from”. Agent Clinton Denson, Cobb County Police Department, Ball Ground, GA.

“Learned so much”. Roberto Diaz, Worcester Youth Center, Worcester, MA.

“Meeting other people. Hearing about their work. Networking”. Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Edge Hill University, England, United Kingdom.

“Networking”. Det. Bradley J. Beckham, Louisville Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Working with coworkers as one. Meeting the OG at Cabrini Green. This experience was life changing in the way I view things.” Eduardo Pagan, Outreach Program Manager, Friendly House, Inc, Worcester, MA.

“Wide variety of topics and classes to keep you interested all the time.” Patrick Carley, Danville Police Department, Danville, IL.

“The diverse classes/choices .... so many options”. Gary Hensler, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The networking”. Det. Travis Holmes, Syracuse Police Department, Syracuse, NY.

“Networking, learning to other agencies do the same type of work”. Det. Mamoun Abraham, Syracuse Police Department, Syracuse, NY.

“A lot of good networking, good contacts: wish it was a full week!” Armandena Boyk, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Great class lists/good choices/having the Christian gang specialist reception. The ability to see & hear other Christians in this field was great to see.” Nathan Gregory, Polk County Sheriffs Department, Des Moines, IA.

“All the classes were presented well and very informative”. Robert T. David, City of Danville, Danville, VA.

“Freedom to chose sessions was a cool system.” Chris Cushenbery, Minneapolis Police Department, Minneapolis, MN.

“Training-Todd Negola. Experience-Tour at Cook County Juvenile Center. Dep. Director was great!”, Andrea K Jones, Superintendent, Franklin County Juvenile Detention Facility, Columbus, OH.

“I especially enjoy the wide variety of sessions offered by the conference.” Edwin Lee, Jr., New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“I like the different tracks & options.” Sgt. Chris Cavera, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“Large amount of options for classes and good instructors”. William Lind, Quad Cities Federal Gang Task Force, Moline, IL.

“Variety of city and states gang intel and solutions. Friendly people, great experience, educated and knowledgeable teachers.” Dante Brown, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Networking. Diverse Learning base. A lot of options”. Tanner Lewandowsky, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

“Many options to pick what classes you want for your needs.” Sgt. Oswaldo Hernandez, Kent County Sheriffs Department, Grand Rapids, MI.

“Excellent Selection and variety of classes. Well Organized and easy to move between classes easily”. Lee McWhorter, Norman Police Department, Norman, OK.

“The best thing about the conference is the way instructors interact with the participants”. Capt. Ney M. Hidalgo, Peumansend Creek Regional Jail, Caroline Detention Facility, Bowling Green, VA.

“Presenters, speakers and trainers did very well.” Det. Teddy Roque, Hudson County Prosecutors Office, Jersey City, NJ.

“A lot of valuable information was given through out the conference”. Sgt. Thomas Newland, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Belvidere, IL.

“Great presenters”. Daniel F. Marmolejo, San Bernadino Superitendent of Schools, San Bernadino, CA.

“Learning new information.” Jennifer Siwieck, U.S. Probation Office, St. Louis, MO.

“The conference was awesome!” Ezell Smith, Cook County Temporary Juvenile Detention Center, Chicago, IL.

“Liked all the opportunities to meet w/ people from many different places. Great networking opportunities like baseball game. Enjoyed all different topics. Great opportunity to hear state and fed laws.” Michelle Goldstein, Queens District Attorneys Office, Kew Gardens, NY.

“The staff is great and provide great access to any information you may need.” Lt. William Loescher, Puyallup Tribe Police Department, Tacoma, WA.

“I love that there are so may sessions, instead of every one being crammed into one room for 3 days. I also like the classes that are scheduled outside of traditional 8-5.” Curtis W Hedgepeth, Instructor, NCPDS - Office of Staff Development and Training, Apex, NC.

“I did get many new ideas and training tools”. Joseph Forgue, Gang Investigator, Rhode Island Department of Corrections, Cranston, RI.

“Variety of choices of classes To choose from. The registration room was easy and the snacks were appreciated”. Shawn Sheckard, York County Prison, York, PA.

“The ability to compare notes with experts from different jurisdictions is very valuable to me.” Scott Halperin, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“A lot of info! Great panel w/ former gang members”. Israel Echevarria Cazares, Washington County Juvenile Department, Hillsboro, OR.

“Networking”. Federico Leon, Washington County Juvenile Department, Hillsboro, OR.

“Staff, facility, vast amounts of knowledge, hospitality, ride along with CPD. Presenter Mulvaney was amazing! He did an amazing job at every session I attended”. Jordan Molnar, Corrections Officer, Lenawee County Sheriffs Office, Adrian, MI.

“All the knowledge from the presenters and how organized everything was.” Jacob Higgins, K-9 Sgt / STG Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Corrections, Pine Bluff, AR.

“The facility was fantastic. The overall experience in reference to the above question on the second and third days were very good. Overall grade would have been an A. Thank you!” Det. James Sutphin, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

“Quantity of classes provided.” Austin Mudd, Corrections Officer, Lenawee County Sheriffs Office, Adrian, MI.

“The best thing I can say about my experience at this conference was that the presenters were very knowledgeable and put on well prepared presentations. I love Todd Negola’s presentations. He always has great information that is presented in a way that keeps your interest.” Kodie D. Boyer, Noble County Sheriffs Department, Albion, IN.

“Offered a variety of classes”. James Pettit, Senior Trooper, Maryland State Police, North East, MD.

“Numerous courses to choose from”. Michael Porta, Maryland State Police, Salisbury, MD.

“The conference was excellent! Had a great time! Love meeting all the people!” Andy Polas, Portland Police Department, Portland, OR.

“I enjoyed the large number of different class options and topics.” Patrick Murphy, Portland Police Department, Portland, OR.

“Great classes and met some great people”. Jerry Ables, Portland Police Department, Portland, OR.

“Well organized. Enjoyed Conference”. Paul Reynolds, City of Marietta Police Department, Marietta, GA.

“Everyone was so informative and accessible”. Monica Rhodes, NOA Counseling, Hopkinsville, KY.

“Very good sessions.” Natascha Jensen, Koege Kommune, Denmark.

“High quality speakers and diversity”. Stine Lukowski, Koege Kommune, Denmark.

“Always excellent classes”. Kevin Kreuser, Cook County Juvenile Probation, Chicago, IL.

“Well put together”. Earnest Wallace, DuPage County Probation, Wheaton, IL.

“Great contacts + networking. Having academics + investigators together. Great info. Important updates + information relevant to my job. Vet reception and Cabrini Green trip were a huge bonus.” Det. Jeremy Mathews, Pueblo Police Department, Pueblo, CO.

“I thought the presenters + support staff were outstanding-sign them to a 10-year contract!” Christopher Claramunt, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“I really liked all the choices in classes. Lots of variety.” Tim Wilson, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“Allowing us to be accountable for our own time, as we are all adults. Phenomenal networking opportunities.” Richard Shanas, Evanston Police Department, Evanston, IL.

“All staff was friendly and professional.” Deputy Erik Merklin, Washington County Sheriffs Office, Hillsboro, OR.

“Flexibility in classes is great, being able to attend part of a class or switch between.” Christopher Tortorello, Evanston Police Department, Evanston, IL.

“I made connections with a nearby investigator and prosecutor who presented and we are going to meet in the future to get tips on how to prosecute gang statutes. Todd Negola is always a great presenter even though I’ve heard him talk on the same topic before. I always get something from his class.” Steven J. Stechschulte, Lima Police Department, Lima, OH.

“The Her Time presentation was great and showed a different perspective of looking at the female associates. El Savador presenter was great. Liked psychologists speaking about criminal minds”. Det. Eric Goetz, Arizona Department of Public Safety, Phoenix, AZ.

“Very organized friendly & accommodating staff welcoming environment.” Kayla Sexton, NOA Counseling, Paintsville, KY.

“Variety of presentations.” Anisha Parhar, Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Todd Negola was the best teacher!” Clarissa Escalante , Comprehensive Life Resources, Tacoma, WA.

“There were plenty of classes to choose from. All the presenters knew their material. The staff was Great! Thank you.” James Mellow, Gwinett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“The opportunity to meet with, and speak to, other people from the criminal justice field is invaluable. Having speakers who are practitioners and academics really helps to make it authentic and valuable”. Dr. Andy Bain,

“The organization, the staff, the volunteers and the documents. Bravo! Keep doing the good job”. Det. Charisse Orman, Intelligence Officer (Dutch Police), Waaigat, Willemstad, Curacao.

“The conference provided great across the board training that applies to all levels of gang prevention, suppression, prosecution and enforcement”. Sharon Mashburn, Probation Supervisor - Gang Unit, Cobb County Juvenile Court, Marietta, GA.

“Meeting others in this field and learning from their experiences and perspectives”. Yoshada Kwaning, Worcester Youth Center, Worcester, MA.

- - -

- - - -

Quotes from Those Who Attended the NGCRC's 2018 (Aug. 6-8, 2018) International Gang Specialist Training Conference in Chicago.

“I appreciated the level of expertise and the variety of backgrounds of the presenters (law enforcement, academics, faith based, social services etc.) The presenters were well prepared & professional in their presentations.” Rev. Clifford Parks, Peoria, IL.

“Best conference I attended all year. I would give up every other conference every year to guarantee I can come to this one. Very informative, interesting, and relatable to my job.” Bobbi Kelso, Senior Supervisor, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“This conference was spectacular. The sheer amount of individuals, all gathered in one place for the purpose of understanding gang-related issues involved in law enforcement investigations was, and is inspiring.” Jennifer Marie Torp, Marietta Police Department, Marietta, GA.

“This by far is the best gang and networking conference that I have been to. I’ve instructed gang awareness for over 15 years, I learn something every time I attend. The relationships are one of the best things also about the conference, see you next year” Roger L. Rice Jr., Department of Juvenile Services, Parkville, MD.

“The level of experience and knowledge of speakers was off the charts. I wish I could’ve gone to all classes offered, I just kept wanting more. Thank you for the opportunity to be here and expand my knowledge!” Jennifer De Mey, Probation Officer, Colorado Springs, CO.

“This is the best training conference I have ever attended in my 21 years in this profession. Great instructors, great class choices, great people!!” Heather Pickett, Classification Sergeant, Sherburne County Jail, Elk River, MN.

“Excellent presenters and coursers. Some of the best training a gang investigator can attend. Kimball Murdock is one of the best presenters here.” Stephen Stollar, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Carrollton, GA.

“The experience of presenters, the general diversity of the topics, facilitation of re-invigorating people who may be getting jaded about the topics given the # of years they’ve been doing the work” Christine Washburn, Chief Trial Deputy District Attorney, Denver District Attorney’s Office, Denver, CO.

“There is no one thing that can be identified as the best thing about the conference. Stand outs professionalism of staff, great ambience of training, deep content and well-researched, knowledgeable factors. This is my second time at this conference at it just gets better and better.” Wendell Codrington Wallace, The University of the West Indies, Trinidad.

“It was an amazing first experience. Great speakers, topics and trainees. The ball game was also a great treat. Will remember this forever and can’t wait to use the tools and knowledge I have learned!” Gurpreet Sidhu, Abbotsford Community Awareness Team, Abbotsford, BC, Canada.

“Some of the trainers/presenters (such as Dr. Lee Gilbertson, Ph.D., James Anderson & Dr. Philip Swift) were outstanding!! They made complex topics very understandable and very applicable to my work. I’d love to take additional classes from them.” Marco Monteblanco, Sr. Juvenile Counselor, Washington County Juvenile Department, Hillsboro, OR.

“Amazing content. Well worth it!” Shawanna Kendrick, Hamilton County District Attorney’s Office, Chattanooga, TN.

“I’m absolutely impressed, satisfied, with this conference. My learning experience was challenged but I was able to see a new perspective about my work.” Flor J. Orellana, UCSF Iwraparound, San Francisco, CA.

The flexibility to choose what topic you would like to attend.” Jeff Koch, Montgomery County Detective Bureau, Norristown, PA.

“There was not one class which did not keep me intrigued” “Session 16 should be used at every conference/police academy FANTASTIC” Simo Reinovich, South St. Paul, MN.

“Great combination of Law Enforcement and Community Facilitators in sharing their roles in gang prevention and intervention.” Pastor Martin Johnson, Peoria, IL.

“Many options on speakers” Brett Keag, Officer, Plainfield Police Department, Plainfield, IL.

“Snacks”, “Location of training”, and “Variety of trainers” Stacy Caudill, DuPage County Probation, Wheaton, IL

“Opportunity to connect with others.” Det. Sandy Avelar, Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver, BC, Canada.

“It was wonderful!”, “Thank you” Tammy Krueger, DuPage County Probation, Wheaton, IL.

“The trainers, material, staff and participants made this conference a top notch experience. I was very pleased with my overall experience at this conference.” Jennifer Safford-Farquharson, Youth and Gang Violence Projects Coordinator, Clark University, Worcester, MA.

“Really enjoy the selection/choices of classes offered” Jill Wells, Department of Juvenile Justice, Deland, FL.

“Network, variety of classes quality of speakers” Stine Lukowski, Project Manager, Koege Kommune, Koege, Denmark.

“Amount of training offered” Kelly W. Roberts, Topeka Public Schools Police, Topeka, KS.

“Learned a lot” Debra Cavanagh, Central Coalition of Good Neighbors, Central Islip, NY.

“I absolutely loved the Christian reception. I felt like I was with family and was proud to share my faith!” and “PS: Thanks for having it at the Westin!” Jenise Lucas, Winnebago County Juvenile Probation, Rockford, IL.

“Presenter topics and the wide array of topics” Steven Braun, Winnebago County Juvenile Probation, Rockford, IL.

“I have been to other gang conferences and I am relieved to finally be to one that discusses recent research and also humanizes work. Best experience I have ever had.” Susie Estrada, Salt Lake City, UT.

“excellent variety to satisfy your interests & professional development. Very good speakers/presenters with diverse backgrounds.” David Payette, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“Very qualified instructors, confirmed some of own thoughts about membership numbers. The connection(s) to terrorism and rise of 2^nd and 3^rd gen. Gangs was eye opening and worrying. Instructors willing to listen to anyone in the room.” Roy Keyes, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Bentonville, AR.

“Variety of topics and presenters was surprisingly awesome.” Clinton Wirtz, Juvenile Justice Trainer, MDHHS, Lansing, MI.

“I was very surprised to learn about juggalos. I had no idea they existed and I did not know much about hybrid gangs. The presenter was also very knowledgeable and passionate about his research.” Maritza Almonte, USPO, U.S. Probation Southern District of NY, New York, NY.

“I learned a multitude of useful information that will be helpful within my future career as a law enforcement officer.” Rebecca Okerstrom, Coon Rapids, MN.

“The size of the conference and layout was great. It allowed for networking opportunities.” Cammeron Woodyard, Camelot Education, Harrisburg, PA.

“The quantity and quality of the conference material and those that lead the courses.”, “Opened my eyes to the true ways of gangs in my world.” Sean T. Dull, Midland County Sheriff’s Office, Midland, MI.

“The conference was a great learning experience. I will be using the knowledge I learned at my organization.” Manpreet Kaur Sarai, Abbotsford Community Awareness Team, Abbotsford, BC, Canada.

“The information and networking is the best thing about this training.” Adam Walser, Midland County Sheriff’s Office, Midland, MI.

“Being able to talk with and get new ideas from other people working in the sam field as me.” Leah Price, Youth Development, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“It was a great experience. Extremely knowledgeable speakers. The staff were efficient and ran everything smoothly. And all were very friendly and helpful.” Susan Coufman, Department of Juvenile Justice, Titusville, FL.

“This conference was very well presented and the flow from session to session was great.” Sean M. Audy, Will County Sheriff’s Office, Joliet, IL.

“The infield training and exposure to actual gang member was prenominal”, “J.R. should be brought to the conference to speak” Ryan Brandon, Intel Analyst, Michigan State Police, Flint, MI.

“Session 113 was the best presentation I attended. He needs a better time slot for next year. The venue was great. Would have loved a ride along with Chicago PD.” Brent Barnhart, Officer, Tulsa Police Department, Tusla, OK.

“I love the variety of topics available and the networking opportunities.” William K. Murdock, Detective, Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta, GA.

“The depth of knowledge and experience of presenters.” Brock Pohl, Northwest Indian Treatment Center, Squaxin Island Tribe, Elma, WA.

“I appreciated Dr. Keiron McConnel he is amazing w/great information.”, “Rosia Julia Garcia Rivera is amazing! She gave the best information.” Sonja Ibabao, Squaxin Island Tribe, NWITC, Elma, WA.

“I always enjoy Carter Smith and Todd Negola. Even I already knew info I like to pay attention to how they present. My style is very similar so I like to pick up new approaches from them. Also, I did pick up 2 or 3 things I plan to use to apply to my gang investigations and prosecutions.” Steven J. Stechschuete, Jr., Lima Police Department, Lima, OH.

“Everyone was friendly. Very helpful.” Nikki Wilkerson, Teachers Aide, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“The facility (Westin) was excellent. Additionally, the wide variety of courses bolstered my knowledge.” Godwin Ogunmefun, USPO, U.S. Probation Southern District of NY, New York, NY.

“Good professional workshops!” Natascha Jensen, Social Worker, Koege Kommune, Koege, Denmark.

“A fantastic opportunity to meet and network with people from different lines of work, all relating to gangs.” Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton, Edge Hill University, Salford, England.

“The variety of sessions - not only the quantity, but the topic areas covered. For me personally, this is money well spent.” Dr. Andy Bain, University of Mount Union, Alliance, OH.

“Over great experience. I would love to attend future sessions. The presenters displayed a very positive attitude!” Brian Alvarado, U.S. Probation Office, Miami, FL.

“Many different types of individuals are passionate about preventing gangs, etc...” Roberto Garcia, U.S. Probation Office, Miami, FL.

“Certification, Networking, A variety of instructors, Location, and Excellent Moderators” Yvette Corbett-Bride, Central Islip School District, Huntington, NY.

“I was able to hear professionals who have worked/or still working in the field dealing with gangs It was an awesome experience. I have to get my law enforcement, JPPS, and all other agencies in my area to come to the conference next year.” Annjannette Turner, National Youth Advocate Program, Augusta, GA.

“The ability to network was incredible!, Recognizing and honoring religion, law enforcement, vets and interventions was appreciated.” Dr. Michelle Baker, VETTS, Inc, New Haven, CT.

“Variety of relevant topics, excellent presenters and outstanding networking opportunities whichd will enable to return and be more effective in my Community Corrections role. Negola is simply an outstanding presenter!” Jay L. Holmes, Sedgwick County Division of Corrections, Wichita, KS.

“I like how there was a global lens focus on the class I attend because the ideas of gangs is not one country, but effects the whole world” Ga Brina R. Cornelious, St. Cloud, MN.

“As Law Enforcement I value the opportunity to network with non-law enforcement. This allows me to learn and understand their roles in gang suppression and prevention.” Marco A. Ayala, detective, Lawrence Police Department, Lawrence, MA.

“Patron Saints training & Dr. Sally-Ann Ashton” Frederick Gray, Federal Probation and Pretrial Academy, Charleston, SC.

“Al the classes were very informative and very interesting. I always learned something new when attending a class.” Nayarit Romero, Chicago, IL.

“Great experience to use in the future and use for my community. It’s my 2^nd year participating and I have enjoyed both years.” Adilene Bahena, Chicago, IL.

“The ability to have multiple certificate/training options all in one conference.” Shawn O’Brien, London Police Service, London, Ontario, Canada.

“The networking with multiple different police departments” Stephen Oldenburger, Patrol Officer, Freeport Police Department, Freeport, IL.

“I believe the instructors gave a lot of great knowledge, experience, and procuedures that will be beneficial when dealing with gang activity and gang members.” Kodie Boyer, Noble County Sheriffs Department, Albion, IN.

“I like that the classes were an hour long. It’s nice to have different options. Sometimes being in a class for long periods of time learning about the same thing is over kill or a bit too much.” Chrissy M. Vaughan, Senior Analyst, Indiana HIDTA, Crown Point, IN.

“I learned new information & made potential networking opportunities/connections in the field of gang crime.” Brock Price, Crawford County Prosecutor’s Office, Van Buren, AR.

“Training and ride along w/ Chicago PD Gang Officers.” Sgt. Jeff Morefield, Edmond Police Department, Edmond, OK.

“Again, this is must training from LE/Probation/Parole/Program members. The Gold Standard that no other training program can compare to! Best in the country/world” Robert Fuller, Detective, Retired Denver DA / Charter Comm., Denver, CO.

“Everything was done very well” Jose Ramos Jr, Fresh Start, Worcester, MA.

“I have to say networking is the best part about this training as well as the information.” Damian Alexis, Youth Intervention Aide, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“Networking and taking back new ideas” Jason Pimentel, Department of Juvenile Justice, Ocala, FL.

“The Tour and the presenter @ the tour (JR)” DuVone Mitchell, Fresh Start, Worcester, MA.

“The knowledge shared at the conference allows you to have various insight fro professionals who have many different experiences in the field of gangs. I found the connections and outreach invaluable in moving forward in my career.” Kristi Bender, Probation, Lincoln, NE.

“I met many passionate individuals that will help me better my interactions with my youth.” Jessica Olsen-Hoek, Prevention Director, Youth Enrichment Services, West Islip, NY.

“Every presenter was very knowledgeable. Everyone was approachable and helpful, even during seminars I rated poorly.” Mary Beth Harmon, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Clinic Director, Youth Enrichment Services, West Islip, NY.

“The trainers were very knowledgeable, prepared and presented well.” Audrey P. McGhee, Department of Juvenile Justice, St. Pete., FL.

“The information was awesome, facilitators were very knowledgeable, and the staff was very accommodating.” Kevin A. Perry, City of Knoxville Community Relations Department, Knoxville, TN.

“The fact that there were so many different people from so many different places was so good for me.” Jesse De La Cruz, Fresh Start, Stockton, CA.

“Very Informational” Allen Mitchell, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“The selection of topics and presentations is a great asset to this conference.” Christopher Cavera, Will County Sheriff’s Department, Joliet, IL.

“Numerous training times and options.” Jennifer Siwiecki, U.S. Probation Officer, U.S. Probation Office, St. Louis, MO.

“All The Classes!” Eddie Savage, Task Force Officer - FBI Safe Streets, Waterloo Police Dept., Waterloo, IA.

“Very insightful and we are moving forward to help one another to deal with the epidemic of gangs” William Rodriguez, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“I was treated well, was able to network with agencies from different states.” Stephanie Quezada, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“Being able to network” Osiris Gomez, Lawrence Family Development, Lawrence, MA.

“Everything” Dr. John Rodriguez, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX.

“I learned a lot and learned new ideas that will help me in policing” Trevis Coleman, Worcester Police Department, Worcester, MA.

“Having people from all over is great” Brendon Tivnan, Worcester Police Department, Worcester, MA.

“Every workshop was extremely informative, valuable and educational” Carolyn Baez, Director of Programs, Youth Enrichment Services, West Islip, NY.

“The amount of classes offered” Evan Wigley, Corrections Officer/Gang Unit, Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Chicago was a great city to hold the conference.” Matthew “Korey” Milo, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“The speakers here were very knowledgeable and networking opportunities were tremendous. I was especially impressed with all the speakers who presented on international gang issues.” Anthony Franks, Assistant United States Attorney, St. Louis, MO.

“Easy to get to classes, variety of topics.” Natalie Karpac, United States Probation Officer, Detroit, MI.

“Number of training course options” Steve Young, Detective, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“There were several great presentation this week. I specifically liked the presentations by Todd Negola! Very informative and interesting presenters.” Jerred Adkins, Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center, Columbus, OH.

“Another year of great information, instructors and networking opportunities.” Jeff Caskey, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, DesMoines, IA.

“Several presenters were extremely dynamic and did a great job. I really enjoyed the wide variety of courses, subjects, and presenters. The wide variety gave the opportunity to learn things that I may not have gotten at a different conference.” Thomas L. Mangan, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“A lot of good instructors with varied backgrounds/experience” Sean Johnston, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“Amount of Classes” Aaron Watkins, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“The friendly environment and solid content” Ryan Clancy, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the different classes that I was able to pick out to attend. The instructors were on mark and they were very knowledgeable about their subject matter.” Wheeler Brent Patterson, Criminal Investigator, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Huntsville, AL.

“Everything was great” Monica Lofton, City of Dayton Human Relations Council, Dayton, OH.

“Always appreciate the opportunity to meet new gang instructors” Thomas Strausborger, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The really good information, and getting to network with other people who do what you are doing” Lorenzo Streeter, Youth Intervention Specialist, Pathways to Peace, Rochester, NY.

“Excellent Presentations, Great Networking, The NGCRC Staff Rocks!” Chris Przemieniecki, West Chester University, West Chester, PA.

“Conference was a good mix of law enforcement and academia. Lots of classes to chose from and hotel is a great location.” Peggy Tobin Trice, ATF/Department of Justice, Tulsa, OK.

“I liked the variety of classes that were offered.” Patrick Carley, Danville Police Department, Danville, IL.

“Schedule Flexibility” Miguel Martinez Jr., Mount Prospect Police Department, Mt. Prospect, IL.

“Location and speakers are amazing and interacted with listeners.” Dwayne Melton, State Training School, Eldora, IA.

“The activities provided such as ballgames.” Christopher P. Carter, Quad Cities Gang Task Force (FBI), Moline, IL.

“The networking opportunity and open discussions with like-minded professionals.” Jewel N. Jones, Gang Intervention Administrator, Ohio Department of Youth Services, Cleveland, OH.

“Great Presenters, Easy to Guide Through Classes” Rich Zapf, Officer, Belvidere Police Department, Belvidere, IL.

“Class flexibility” Jason Nemerow, Mount Prospect Police Department, Mt. Prospect, IL.

“The speakers were very knowledgeable on what they were teaching.” Richard Palocsik, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Augusta, GA.

“Lots of great choices” Travis Wolfe, Deputy, Macon County Sheriff’s Office, Decatur, IL.

“Well organized with excellent instructors” Frank Reznik, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Des Moines, IA.

“I liked having numerous choices to choose from” Bart M. Hickey, Deputy Macon County Sheriff’s Office, Decatur, IL.

“Cabrini Green was an amazing experience. As a gang investigator & someone who has studied history of gangs for years, this was great being able to see this legendary piece of gang history.” Adam Green, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, August, GA.

“I enjoyed the, come as you go approach, basically pick the Trainings you’re interested in & just go.” Eric Turton, DuPage County Adult Probation, Wheaton, IL.

“Really enjoy visiting Chicago. Great to netowrk and share experiences with other similarly situated professionals from other jurisdictions. Also enjoyed the casual format that allows participants to move about at their own pace.” Christopher Huband, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“Very Informational, the networking opportunities were Awesome!” Veronica L. Williams, Houston, TX.

“Very Awesome & met a lot of other gang intervention specialist” Estevan Medina, Second Chance Through Faith, Colorado Springs, CO.

“The classes are all good and being able to network with people that have same passion for what they do” John Reyes, Second Chance Through Faith, Colorado Springs, CO.

“Great presenters! I Love the energy of the presenters and attending the participants” Ruben Marquez, UCSF Iwraparound, San Francisco, CA.

“Well Organized, Snacks, thank you, Diverse presenters” Yvonne Woodard, Department of Juvenile Justice, Tallahassee, FL.

“Number of sessions and diversity of Instructors” Nicholas W. Hughett, Lansing Police Department, Lansing, MI.

- - -

Consistent Positive Feedback From Evaluations Over the Years: The Quotes from Persons Who Attended the 2017 NGCRC Conference.

The formal evaluation included mostly quantitative measurements as reflected in the results from the statistical calculations. But there is also a qualitative dimension to the evaluation because the same evaluation form included this question: "What is the best thing you can say about your experience at this training conference? (PRINT: we do appreciate hearing good news, so describe anything you really liked about the conference)".

“Best gang conference I have ever attended. You are able to network with other gang specialists from around the world and given plenty of material to assist you when you get back home to assist you in your job duties.” Sgt. Kevin White, DeKalb County Police Dept., Tucker, GA.

“Conference was well-planned and organized. Networking options were outstanding. Outstanding conference with an abundant number of sessions/classes- only regret not being able to attend more sessions-will have to come back in following years.” Robin Pascoe, Wilmington Police Department, Wilmington, NC.

“All presenters were very knowledgeable, professional. Conference clearly designed to provide the best possible experience for the attendees. Loved the huge variety of classes and flexible scheduling.” Christopher Huband, State’s Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville, FL.

“This is absolutely the best conference that I have been to bar none, the staff, volunteers were very accommodating, professional and the veteran + Law Enforcement reception were awesome, this is my third year being a presenter and my fourth year here, contacts and friends that I have made can’t be understated, the best ever.” Roger L. Rice, Jr., Training Resource Manager, Department of Juvenile Services, Parkville, MD.

“Gangs are finally being recognized in my community. I have so much great information to take back for training and new programming.” Geneva K. Smith, NECIC, Mansfield, OH.

“The amount of diversity in agencies represented in the presenters. Being able to hear from so many different agencies and presenters was educational in the most exceptional way. The ability to build networking opportunities nationwide...impressive.” Rebekah K. Pearson, Family Court of Jefferson County, Birmingham, AL.

“The amount of different training which covered a diverse number of topics that are valuable to different law enforcement agencies. I really took a lot away from the verbal de-escalation training.” Captain Vincent Fuca, New York City Department of Corrections, East Elmhurst, NY.

“This conference provided a variety of topics & information which will assist in future investigations. The conference provided a great atmosphere to absorb the information.” Det. Robert Beck, Detective Constable, Hamilton Police Service, Ontario, Canada.

“The majority of presenters INCREDIBLE from the content to presentation/delivery. I feel like I really learned a lot in a short period of time. It was a very worthwhile experience.” Crystal Grace Wilson, Palatine, IL.

“As a first timer, this was a great, knowledgeable experience. The entire conference was well organized and ran super smoothly-from an attendee’s perspective. This conference provided numerous opportunities to make network connections.” Allison Humes, DeKalb, IL.

“One of the best educational sessions I have ever been to. Love the scope of topics” Ryan Clancy, Chicago, IL.

“There are a lot of different classes to attend and you are not mandated to only go to certain classes. Allows people to attend classes of interest.” Dennis Stankiewicz Jr., DPSES, Intelligence & Investigative Division, Savage, MD.

“I personally enjoyed experiencing networking and hearing how other states/departments are on the same page. NGCRC is a great organization and would recommend this training in the future.” Paul Reynolds, City of Marietta Police, Marietta, GA.

“The information provided throughout the conference is relevant and up to date. I picked up some fresh ideas as to how to approach gang issues in my area.” Lt. Kenneth Winklepleck, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“Getting to see first hand the process other investigators go through to reach the same goal, conviction/prosecution.” Evan D. Waldrep, Marietta Police Department, Marietta, GA.

“Every presenter was awesome, excellent speakers, and very interactive with the class. They were extremely knowledgeable in their field of expertise. I learned so very much. I also met some awesome people. The panel discussion w/gang members was awesome and those two young men were inspiring-courageouss.” “Thank you so much!” Robin Marsh, FBI CJIS Division, Clarksburg, WV.

“This was my first time at a gang conference. I’m from Montana and I have received great information to bring back to my state.” “Thank you.” Amy Peters, Detention Officer, Lewis and Clark County Sheriffs Office, Helena, MT.

“Variety of topics under one roof.” Antonio J. Cruz, Director, New York City Department of Corrections, East Elmhurst, NY.

“This was my first time attending a gang conference. Most impressed with the quantity of topics covered and the quality of the presentations. I will not only attend next year but will also encourage others to attend as well. Awesome conference!!” D. Terry Hassell, Probation Officer / Case Manager, Bermuda Government, Pembroke, Bermuda.

“Great info! Diverse info! Thanks!!! Learned A Lot and had a great time in Chicago.” Angel Ross-Taylor, Richland County Prosecutor’s Office, Mansfield, OH.

“Informative, variety of class/speakers.” “Been in the criminal justice field over 12 years and attended tons of conferences. By far the best conference I’ve ever attended.” Bobbi Kelso, Abraxas Youth Center, South Mountain, PA.

“Choices for classes.” Tommy Jewell, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“Wonderful networking opportunity. The sharing of ideas and strategies was extremely helpful. You can get a good idea the problem we face with violent groups across the U.S. and abroad with possible ways to address the issue for your city or state. Also great location nice meeting spaces and content. Enjoyed the hotel and the service walking distance everything, awesome.” Mario T. Martin, City of Columbus Recreation & Parks, Columbus, OH.

“The networking/with the wide variety of people and experience.” Sgt. Jason A. Brock, Bradley County Sheriff’s Department, Cleveland, TN.

“Tons of variety.” Samantha L. Thompson, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Chicago, IL.

“Great classes and teachers.” Matthew Messer, PCAT Officer, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“Learning about upcoming trends.” Frank Ardino, U.S. Probation Office, Miami, FL.

“The well rounded coverage of different parts of the gang problem.” Brian Mooney, Orange Police Department, Orange, NJ.

“Great learning opportunity lots of Knowledge being presented.” Sgt. Kimball Mason Hottell, Steuben County Sheriffs Office, Angola, IN.

“There are so many classes to pick from. With a pre-made itinerary for myself I was able to navigate throughout the classes with ease.” Jason D. Hudson, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Learning different methods that are commonly used for gang intervention around the country. Hopefully we be able utilize these in our city.” Jamie Hockstetler, Goshen Police Department, Goshen, IN.

“Great chance to meet and network with others.” Det. Chris Geoghegan, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“Well organized!” Frank Reznik, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Des Moines, IA.

“Patience is the key to a successful event and a great desire to learn! All the instructors was very knowledgeable of their material. Thanks for “Interviewing the Criminal Mind” taught by Todd D. Negola.” Lena A. Shepherd, Alabama Department of Corrections, Montgomery, AL.

“Very informative presenters. Always look forward to coming back the next year. NGCRC staff do their best to make for a great training experience.” Christopher Calhoun, Jail Deputy, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Jail Division, Noblesville, IN.

“Enjoyed the psychology-based classes, as well as the classes focused on challenges in prosecuting gang cases.” Emily Petro, Assistant District Attorney General, 10^th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Cleveland, TN.

“All of the options for classes.” Adam M. Alikhan, Vermilion County State’s Attorney’s Office, Danville, IL.

“Some great classes, large variety of topics.” Brian Catanzarite, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, Pittsburgh, PA.

“Different class choices, almost too many options.” Peter Roberge, Worcester Police Department, Worcester, MA.

“Excellent and very diverse information concerning all levels of gangs. The realization that gangsterism is more socio-economic than racial. Educating and giving our youth the tools to survive lessens the chance of gang involvement.” Michael A. Weeks, Member of Parliament, Bermuda.

“The (number & variety) of classes to choose from.” Keith Baker, Fairfax County Police Department, Fairfax, VA.

“Lots of class options.” Jimmy Ward, Classification Officer, Floyd County Sheriffs Department, New Albany, IN.

“Always great training.” “Third time to attend and learn something every time.” Kelly Roberts, Topeka Public Schools Police, Topeka, KS.

“I attended several of the sessions lead by Todd D. Negola, Psy.D., I thought his presentations and knowledge of material were superior”. Lt. Rodney D. Jackson, Detroit Police Department, Detroit, MI.

“Networking with other jurisdictions.” Ramon Robertson, Fairfax County Police Department, Fairfax, VA.

“I really like the format, pick the classes you’re interested in, plus the wide variety of topics. Very well organized. Great Job!” Paul Lane, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Great motorcycle class” Det. Fiorella Soto, DeKalb County Police Department, Tucker, GA.

“The best thing I can say about this conference is the opportunity to network with all the other gang specialists across the country.” Tyler J. McDowell, Franklin County Sheriffs Office, Columbus, OH.

“The many options of classes available.” David Roman, DPSES - Intelligence & Investigative Division, Savage, MD.

“This was my second year and the information keeps getting better.” Sgt. Jeff Caskey, Polk County Sheriffs Office, Des Moines, IA.

“Great course selection, excellent instructors.” Sgt. Brian Hill, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“I appreciate the wide range of classes offered and the experience that is brought to the table by the instructors. Networking is huge and maybe even would like to see a round robin discussion session with what is going on locally with each attendee. There might be a question and answer session with the instructors that are presenting.” Sgt. Jesse W. Hambrick, Douglas County Sheriffs Office, Douglasville, GA

“High quality presentations.” “Diversity in networking is awesome.” Stine Lukowski, Special Advisor, Koege Kommune, Denmark.

“Having instructors and attendees from all over and from every different aspect of criminal justice.” Tobias Rogerson, Macomb, IL.

“This is one of the best opportunities to network with gang specialists throughout the U.S. and internationally.” Christopher L. Mallette, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“Informative, great place to network.” James A. Buccellato, Ph.D., Lecturer, Northern Arizona University, Dept. Of Criminology, Flagstaff, AZ.

“The range of classes/speakers/times was great. The presenters really knew their subject matter and cared that we learned something. The people running the conference were super helpful! Chicago is amazing.” Jennifer Welch, Assistant District Attorney, Knox County District Attorney’s Office, Knoxville, TN.

“The networking experience and opportunity to share knowledge is the reason I attend the NGCRC Conference.” Kristopher Hansgen, Investigator, TCF Bank, Plymouth, MN.

“As always the NGCRC sets the bar at the highest level for the education/research of gangs/gang prosecution/gang investigation.” “Brings the best and the brightest in the field together!” Robert Fuller, Investigator, Denver District Attorney’s Office, Metro Gang Task Force, Denver, CO.

“My prosecution team partner and I received extremely valuable information on constructing a gang presentation from the Battlecreek MI lecturers and Michael Bickis of the Stark County Pros Office in Canton Ohio who were willing to share their information in document form. A fantastic help!” Anne Crater, Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, Mays Landing, NJ.

“Great information, knowledgeable presenters, and good networking opportunities got to brainstorm some issues with prosecutors from 5 states” Michael Bickis, Stark County Prosecutor’s Office, Canton, OH.

“Great training, friend networking.” Mark Burchell, Federal Probation, U.S. District Court, Detroit, MI.

“This was a very informative training conference & I learned so much! Hurry up NGCRC Conference 2018!!” Kate Schwendener, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Chicago, IL.

“The conference provided good classes that allowed our unit to see the pro’s & con’s of other units that are in the same situation we are.” Det. Chad Taylor, Carrollton Police Department, Carrollton, GA.

“The Cabrini Green Tour was better than expected. Hearing from ex-gang members was informational.” Jason Caster, Wyoming MI DPS, Wyoming, MI.

“The conference instructors stay very current with the latest changes in gang operations and activities.” Ben Durian, Wyoming MI DPS, Wyoming, MI.

“The presenters are brilliant and well read on the subject matter.” Jared Grandy, City of Dayton Human Relations Council, Dayton, OH.

“Meeting others from all over, doing the same thing and learning from them.” Tommy Steele, SRO, Goshen Police Department, Goshen, IN.

“I learned several new things about gang activity and thought processes.” Trent Howard, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“Meeting other LEO’s from different states and agencies.” James Mellow, Gwinnett County Police Department, Lawrenceville, GA.

“Great networking opportunities. Diversity of material helped to expand my knowledge of gangs.” William Kimball Murdock, Atlanta Police Department, Atlanta, GA.

“Networking.” William Young, Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“The variety of classes.” Arthur Vasquez, Senior Lecturer, Criminology & Criminal Justice Department, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX.

“I really enjoyed the variety of the presentations and the networking.” Brandi Fowler, Intelligence Analyst, FBI Metro Gang Task Force, Denver, CO.

“Great support staff.” Felix Mickens, Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“Networking, very informational.” Amy Britain, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.

“The overwhelming variety of courses offered. I very much enjoyed the Chicago experience such as the area where we were (hotel, area of Chicago). Seeing a game at Wrigley was also worth writing home about. This conference was very well organized and at times there were so many good choices on classes, it made it hard to pick.” Caleb Ferren, Fort Worth Police Department, Fort Worth, TX.

“The vast offering of options, sessions, and speakers was amazing. It was great to hear so many perspectives.” Gabriel Mendoza, Assistant District Attorney, Queens County District Attorneys Office, Kew Gardens, NY.

“Lots of unique presentations and differing opinions/perspectives among students.” Det. Nick Valente, Cleveland Metro Parks Ranger Department, Fairview, OH.

“I loved the city and the area of the city several of the classes provided exactly the type of information I need to prosecute gang members in 2017.” Dallas Scott III, 10^th Judicial District Attorney’s Office4, Cleveland, TN.

“Great, a wonderful experience. Made a lot of new friends.” Det. Kobe Saffe, Hamilton Police Service, Ontario, Canada.

“I always learn a lot and meet great people when I come to this training. What I like best is the variety of insights that I come away with. All regions of the country, as well as different agencies and roles within the community and justice system are represented. This all underscores how diverse gangs are and how important it is for us to use multifaceted approaches when responding to them. Thanks!” James Sutton, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY.

“The convenience of the location of the conference as well as room assignments. The volunteers were very accommodating and generous. Enjoyed the wide variety of course options.” Jennifer Smith, Elkhart County Sheriffs Department, Elkhart, IN.

“The ability to come and go from different sessions at the same time slot. The large selection of courses to choose.” Detective Constable Shawn O’Brien, London Police Service, Ontario, Canada.

“Classes were extremely informative.” Nicholas Minder, Concord Community Schools Police Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Many choices in sessions to attend.” William Talley, Corrections Officer, Floyd County Sheriffs Department, New Albany, IN.

“The overall class variety and ability to go to classes not in your “track.” There was an expansive amount of knowledge coming together in one conference.” Heather Becker, Probation Officer, Denver, CO.

“Variety and level of expertise.” Derek Helmke, Ontario Provincial Police, Orillia, Ontario, Canada.

“I learned a ton and can apply it to my work.” Morgan Miller, Homer Glen, IL.

“A lot of useful information. Provided great ideas and topics for research projects.” Keona Morris, Chicago, IL.

“Great Speakers!” Veienice Sandoval, Macomb, IL.

“Networking and meeting different criminal justice personnel.” Gurpreet Chahal, Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Networking. I’ve met so many people.” Evan Wigley, Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Networking was key for me. I also appreciated the presenters sitting in on other presentations.” Christine Lynde, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Lees Summit, MO.

“Lots of great information.” Christopher J Kincaid, Midwest HIDTA, Kansas City, MO.

“The quality of Information. Everybody was very helpful.” Keyon Ashe, NCDPS - Governors Crime Commission, Raleigh, NC.

“The number of choices in different topics and all the speakers were really into what they were speaking about.” Stephen Oldenburger, Freeport Police Department, Freeport, IL.

“The experience showed a variety of aspects of gangs origin and evolution from different prospective.” Det. Clarence Muhammad, Memphis Police Department, Multiagency Gang Unit, Memphis, TN.

“All the material is cutting-edge and relevant. This is an extremely important conference.” Dr. Renee Figaro, Lecturer, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad, West Indies.

“The information given while attending the training, was very beneficial! I would highly recommend the training.” Derek L. Weldy, Corrections Corporal, Elkhart County Sheriffs Department, Elkhart, IN.

“Very informative and lots of information obtained and learned.” Joshua Qualls, Corrections Officer, Midland County Sheriffs Office, Midland, MI.

“Networking, good information for both students and professionals.” Nathaniel Mason, Saint Cloud, MN.

“Location, convenience, depth of presentations, extremely professional operation.” Eddie Johnson, Deputy Chief of Administration, Director of Research and Planning, Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Phoenix, AZ.

“The session on gang involvement in social justice movements was great. The tour to Cabrini Green was also great, they should offer another tour.” Greta Aldridge, Denver Pretrial Services, Denver, CO.

“The presenters have an amazing amount of knowledge and experience.” James V. Sloan, 48^th Circuit Court of Michigan, Allegan, MI.

“A lot of applicable knowledge.” Benjamin Schreur, 48^th Circuit Court of Michigan, Allegan, MI.

“I’ve met with some great presenters and also enjoyed making connections with them to possibly work with them in the future.” Jesus Tampa, Chicago, IL.

“The trainers are the best in the their field and really have a lot of knowledge to pass on.” Nathan Breeze, Matoon, IL.

“Got to meet many different people from around the world. Also had the chance to get to know them and learn about their job.” Adilene Bahena, Chicago, IL.

“The number of class options.” Steve A. Young, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“I like having all the different classes to choose from.” Shane Turley, Madison County District Attorney’s Office, Huntsville, AL.

“Loved networking w others from different professions-we are all about the same purpose-to help/serve.” Marsha Baird, Gang Prevention Coordinator, Provo City School District, Provo, UT.

“The information was relevant. I thought it addressed trends we may need to prepare for with gangs. Well organized conference and I would plan to attend for many years.” Ashton Adank, Kasson, MN.

“The Christian Reception was very good. It definitely covered the problem and an important part of the equation for a solution.” Sgt. Samuel D. Byrd, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus, OH.

“Networking! Also learned new mediation tactics.” Andre Davis, Community for New Direction, Columbus, OH.

“Networking.” Monica D Lofton, City of Dayton Human Relations Council, Dayton, OH.

“Everybody involved with NGCRC was great! Being able to choose our training path was awesome!” Roy Johnson, Gang Intelligence Deputy, Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department, Modesto, CA.

“Meeting new dept. and hearing how they work with gang members. Being part of a bigger family in this line of work.” Johnny Santos, Case Manager, Gang Reduction Initiative of Denver, Denver, CO.

“Meeting new people and the presenters were great.” Jessica Dugan, Case Manager, Community for New Direction, Columbus, OH.

“Meeting new people! Networking! Great conference to meet new people and get new ideas.” Brian Yazzie, Provo City School District, Provo, UT.

“Always a blast to see familiar faces, share ideas, network and meet new acquaintances.” “Being a presenter brings great joy to share with my colleagues foreign and domestic.” William Campbell, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, Elizabethtown, KY.

“Great Staff. This was a great opportunity to see what gang problems other communities across the country are facing and how they are choosing to combat them.” Inv. Jason E. Webb, Investigator, Oxford Police Department, Oxford, AL.

“Networking was a great experience and the staff provided a great experience.” Jermal Chambers, School Resource Officer, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, Athens, GA.

“This is the leading Gang (School) conference in my experiences. I’ve attended many and this one is above all others in info, knowledge, variety and trends.” Eddie Savage, Waterloo Police FBI Safe Streets Task Force, Waterloo, IA.

“Nice hotel, well organized, and a wide variety of learning topics.” Patrick J. Carley, Danville Police Department, Danville, IL.

“Meeting so many great people and learning so much.” Derrick L Showell, Community for New Direction, Columbus, OH.

“The classes were all great with very good info.” Brad Blackwell, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa, OK.

“Connecting with people who “walk the talk”!” Gangs signs of sign language, excellent presenter. Good new blood.” Doris D Yates, California State University - East Bay, Hayward, CA.

“There were great opportunities for networking and collaboration.” Jewel N. Jones, Juvenile Parole Officer, Cleveland, OH.

- - - -

Want a Short Six Page "Brochure Version" of What is in This Lengthy File?

Some people like all the details, that is provided in this file (www.ngcrc.com/conference.html). Others need something "short and sweet" to attach to a travel request. We have that too: it is the six page basic "Brochure Version" of this lengthy and detailed conference file. It also includes a registration form and cost information.

Click here for the Six Page Brochure Version in PDF Format. Or navigate to: https://ngcrc.com/brochure.pdf

- - -

Comments from those who attended the 2016 NGCRC Training Conference in Chicago:

SAMPLE COMMENTS FROM 2016 ATTENDEES:

“ ‘Networking’ with others was very helpful in gaining intel.”, “Baseball game” and “The variation of classes and the freedom of choosing the sessions I want to attend”. Captain Loretta D. Wells, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Omaha, NE.

“I have been to the conference 4 times over the last 5 years and there has been new material presented each year.” Crystal Thomas, Evansville Police Department, Evansville, IN.

“I have been to many drug and gang conferences. The NGCRC Conference is, by far, the best conference I have attended. Very few will offer such a wide range of expertise.” Mike O’Brien, F.B.I. Federal Gang Task Force, Moline, IL.

“The overall conference was great! I appreciate how organized everything was. The location was perfect. Most of the presenters appeared to be subject matter experts. This was my first time attending, it will not be my last.” Zaneta P. Simpson, Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office, Charlotte, NC.

“The best part of the conference is you can always find what your looking for from the vast array of instructors. From a basic class to a more extensive approach. This training is still the best in the nation & you will get out of it exactly what you put into it.” Michael Robbins, Adams County Sheriffs Office, Brighton, CO.

“As always 1st class training totally relevant useful information. Best gang training conference in the country, networking heaven!! Thank you Dr Knox and staff, looking forward to next year.” Dominick J. Cicala, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, Trenton, NJ.

“You have some of the best instructors that I have ever heard and I've taken classes for over 21 years.” Det. Jason Dwight Hudson, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“I have been a gang detective for 9 years and actually learned new things about street gangs and gang culture.” Det. Rigoberto Amaro, Waukegan Police Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Very well organized. Up to date information.” Lt. Kenneth Winklepleck, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“I really like the way classes are setup. You can travel from class to class and go to the ones that interest you the most. Also really enjoyed the variety of topics”. William Noon, Toledo Police Department, Toledo, OH.

SAMPLE COMMENTS FROM PREVENTION/INTERVENTION AREA:

“As an educator that works with At-Risk youth I feel as though I am much more informed and prepared to address gang members/activity. I feel as though all of my presenters were experts and will to help me understand my students.” Jennifer Shimon, teacher, Kenosha Unified School District, Kenosha, WI.

“Variety of option in courses to choose from. Hotel was great environment for conference & centrally located. Opportunity to network w/ people across the nation & world.” Chevist Johnson, S.O.E. Kingdom, Sacramento, CA.

“Networking and all the amazing information from the speakers.” Edgar Caceres, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“The presenters are always very professional and every year I leave the conference with a new level of expertise.” Christopher L. Mallette, Executive Director, Chicago Violence Prevention Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“Out of all the conferences that I attend, this organization has been the most effective. The topics & presenters have inspired me to do more w/ at risk youth”. Leonard D. Hunt, Cincinnati Job Corps, Cincinnati, OH.

“All instructors and classes were great.” John Reyes, Second Chance Through Faith, Colorado Springs, CO.

“The vast amount of information and knowledge in the courses, I wish I could have done more. My dept. could not find the money for this conference. I paid my own way and I will do it again.” Edward Savage, Shelby County Schools, Project Prevent, Memphis, TN.

“Meeting everyone was the best experience. Being able to network and get contacts was an experience I will not forget”. Osiris Gomez, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“I learned some very valuable information to use when I get back to my community.” Lorenzo Lawson, Youth Empowerment Zone, Columbia, MO.

“Great way to network and obtain new ideas and programs to try.” Kelly W. Roberts, Topeka Public Schools Police, Topeka, KS.

“The conference offered a large buffet of trainings with subject matter experts.” Lonnie L. Hall, Gary Job Corps Center, San Marcos, TX.

“Lots of classes to pick from”, “Lots of people to network with”, “2^nd time attending.” and “Always learn something and find the sessions to be full of information.” Scott Hatch, Penobscot Job Corps, Bangor, ME.

“There was so much valuable information that can be learned and applied in so many situations.” Steven Cochran, Penobscot Job Corps, Bangor, ME.

SAMPLE COMMENTS FROM CORRECTIONS AREA:

“The presenter(s)s were excellent”. John Douglas “A-Train" Atkinsson, Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center, Milwaukee, WI.

“I’ve been coming to this conference since 2009! I’ve met some great people and have been afforded the opportunity to be a presenter, networking and collaborating with like minded professionals. Always looking forward to learning more and doing more for Gang Research and the NGCRC! Can’t wait until next year.” William A. Campbell, Training Academy Coordinator, Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice - Training Center, Elizabethtown, KY.

“This conference provides opportunity to network and collaborate with other presenters in establishment of purposeful and meaningful relationships.” Jewel N. Jones, STG-Gang Coordinator, Ohio Department of Youth Services, Cleveland, OH.

“Very informative, instructors were very knowledgeable, information was easy to understand.” Jeff Caskey, detention supervisor, Polk County Sheriffs Office, Des Moines, IA.

“The variety and quality of classes and speakers”. Michael Artmann, Jail Intelligence Deputy, Hennepin County Sheriffs Office, Minneapolis, MN.

“The ability to complete the track to your own needs”, “Thanks” and “Love the experience”. Captain Matilda Serna, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Tecumseh, NE.

“Eye opening - work being done by LEO & Corrections to research & communicate what is happening”. Captain James Foster, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Lincoln, NE.

“Breakfast & Snacks!”, “The speakers are very smart & interactive!”, “The chairs w/cushions on them.”, “Carter F Smith, Dr. Simon Harding, Todd D. Negola & Deepa Patel are fantastic, very smart, intelligent, funny, interactive and keep the presentation entertaining.” and “Thank you to them.” Natalya Kandakova, Minnesota Department of Corrections, Burnsville, MN.

“Great speakers”. Clint LaFar, Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center, Peoria, IL.

“I have been teaching and working with juveniles for 5 years and I learned more about these gang culture, how to better work with them, and how the gangs are evolving in the last 3 days than my 5 previous years”. Timothy E. Cech, Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center, Peoria, IL.

“Presentation material.” Captain Shawn Freese, Nebraska Department of Corrections, Lincoln, NE.

COMMENTS FROM PROSECUTION AREA:

“Network; great selection of classes; I learned a lot!”. Lindsey Moreland, Assistant District Attorney, Nashville, TN

“Opening ceremony is a fantastic start, with so many tracks it's the only event that is open to everyone being together.” Elizabeth Caratini Buerger, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Palatine, IL.

“I liked the format (cafeteria style course selection)”. Crystal Uhe, Madison County State’s Attorneys office, Edwardsville, IL.

“The various professionals that were available to speak - from educators to attorneys, investigators, and parole|probation officers. To hear the different perspectives was extremely valuable. The presentation on Tactical Interviewing was AMAZING! By far the most interesting and helpful presentation throughout the course.” Merry M. Saunders, Athens County Prosecuting Attorneys Office, Athens, OH.

“Opportunity network, speakers willing to discuss class outside of session. Location|hotel & price were great. The opportunity to meet w/ experts & individuals heavily versed in the world of gangs provides for a priceless opportunity to learn & grow as a prosecutor.” Kristi Wilson, Assistant District Attorney, Douglas County District Attorneys Office, Douglasville, GA.

“The classes being non-regimented were nice having different lengths starting at different times and no breaks in between made the day far more seamless.” Kyle Aber, District Attorneys Office, Pueblo, CO.

COMMENTS FROM PROBATION/PAROLE/AFTERCARE AREA:

“Networking, Topic discussion”. Derrick Parker, Aftercare Specialist, Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, Chicago, IL.

“My best part of this conference was receiving one of the spirit awards. I can only imagine all the hard work that Mr. Knox and his staff puts into this training and to take the time to learn what certain people are doing in this field and then recognizing them is such an honor. The knowledge I gained from this training is something I am excited to take back to my team and share to move forward on our Gang Court and addressing gang issues.” Kelly Hobbs, Probation Officer, Metro Juvenile Court, Nashville, TN.

“Some great new sessions”. Kevin Kreuser, Cook County Juvenile Probation, Chicago, IL.

“The quality & knowledge of the trainers was exceptional. Additionally, everyone was very open|available to answer questions afterwards.” Matt Mills, juvenile probation officer, DeKalb County Court Services, Sycamore, IL.

“Great Overall Speakers.” Luis Lopez, Cook County Juvenile Court, Chicago, IL.

“I learned new & useful information.” Sara J. Mentore, Supervisory U.S. Probation Officer, U.S. Office of Probation & Pretrial Services, Gulf Port, MS.

“The information that I learned increased my knowledge of gangs”. Valencia E. Dedaux, U.S. Probation Office, Gulf Port, MS.

“The variety of topics available and the chosen presenters.” John Steinhilber, U.S. Probation Officer, Miami, FL.

COMMENTS FROM OTHERS:

“I like the location of the conference, and the variety of choices given.” Marcial Perez, Pleasant Hills, Iowa.

“All of the work shops that I attended were very informative & applicable to the work that I am involved in.” Thomas Hurley, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“Excellent Information!”. Robert Brzenchek , Douglasville, PA.

“NGCRC is something I look forward to every year, and every time I come to this conference, it exceeds my expectations.” Kristopher B.E. Hansgen, Gang Specialist, St. Joseph, MN.

“Wonderful Networking opportunity with people all over the world”. Stacia Potorff, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO.

“It was very pleasant to hear a combination of academics & real world practitioners on gang activities.” Carlos Hernandorena, Falls Church, VA.

“Best training I’ve been to. I learned so many new things both professionally & personally. It energized me & makes me excited be part of this field!” and “Thank you!”. Mallory Fuchs, Owatonna, MN.

“So many different class options...just about every aspect of "Gangs" were covered!”. Melissa Cordeiro, City of Tacoma, Tacoma, WA.

“Networking and having the ability to connect with other people in your field from other states. Finding out how they handle their gang issues and compare it to how my work handles it. The speakers were also outstanding!”. Kyra Luepke, Graduate Student, Prinsburg, MN.

“The Cyber Bullying gave essential information on the subject not only for my work but for my personal life with my 16 year old and red flags to pay attention to. Thank you!” and “Extremely Good Presenter!”. Debra A. Higens, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“The networking opportunities are excellent!”. Randall Strickland, Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy, Chicago, IL.

“A great opportunity to meet past colleagues and friends which provides the best circumstance to network and build professional ties.” Dr. Andy Bain, University of Mount Union, Alliance, OH.

“Registration staff were wonderful.” Mario Hesse, Professor, Dept. Of Criminal Justice, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN.

“Networking receptions are a great way to met others and decompress after absorbing a lot of information.” James A Anderson, Deputy State Fire Marshall, Little Falls, MN.

“The presenters and materials were well organized, professional and interesting!”. April Lyskowsky, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“Everything”. Carlos Collazo, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“It was very informative and the networking was very good.” William Rodriguez, Lawrence Family Development & Education Fund, Lawrence, MA.

“I enjoyed the excellent assistance received from student assistants and office staff. NGCRC staff did a great job.” Dr. Manuel R. Roman Jr., Sacramento, CA.

“By far an amazing training as always”. Deepa R. Patel, Springfield, VA.

COMMENTS FROM POLICE:

“I like the location of the conference, and the variety of choices given.” Marcial Perez, Pleasant Hills, Iowa.

“Opportunities to network and gather info on gangs/issues across the country not just my region.” Kris Murphy, Salt Lake Area Gang Project, Salt Lake City, UT.

“Great Hotel!! Great networking with other gang detectives from across the country.” Det. Esekia Afatas, Salt Lake Area Gang Project, Salt Lake City, UT.

“I really appreciated the veterans reception. I thought it was a great idea and haven't been to anything similar in the past. The number of training options was great.” Erin Nelson, Fairfax County Police Department, Springfield, VA.

“Enjoyed the "criminal mind and the gangster." I enjoyed the large number of offerings for training - the facility (hotel) was nice.” Jesse Hambrick, Douglas County Sheriffs Dept., Douglasville, GA.

“Meeting new officers and investigators”. Officer Eric Scott, Shelby County Schools, Memphis, TN.

“Well organized, great staff and excellent presenters”. Constable Boris Sark, Victoria Police Department, Victoria, BC, Canada.

“The variety of classes, allowed me to try different areas of training that I never would have before.” Anthony Caliendo, Deputy Sheriff, Lake County Sheriffs Office, Waukegan, IL.

“The volume of classes was nice to be able to choose from.” Officer Michael R. Ball, Sonoma County Sheriffs Office, Santa Rosa, CA.

“Recognition of our nations vets and law enforcement’s fallen - networking with old friends and new contacts”. Fred Moreno, Chicago, IL.

“Great Topics”. Det. Christopher Ryan Geoghegan, Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville, KY.

“There were great instructors”. Gary Hensler, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“Networking”. Morris Franklin, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“The workshops were great Dr. Todd Negola and Ken Davis were great”. Terrance Stone, Chairman, San Bernardino County Gangs & Drugs Task Force, San Bernardino, CA.

“Very informative, great venue”. Matthew Foote, Fort Wayne Police Department, Fort Wayne, IN.

“The presenters for each class that I attended were very knowledgeable.” Adele Gardner, Police Officer, Detroit Public Schools Police Department, Detroit, MI.

“The high level of specialists that were speakers.” Dante A. Salinas, patrolman, Waukegan Police Department, Waukegan, IL.

“Wide range of topics from all across, United States.” Det. Alan Beckman, Will County Sheriffs Office, Joliet, IL.

“Lots of great information”. Samer Kato, Macomb County Sheriffs Office, Mt. Clemens, MI.

“Really enjoyed Carter Smith, Todd Negola & Chris Przemieriecki Great speakers”. Stephen D. Stollar, Carroll County Sheriffs Office, Carrollton, GA.

“Extensive material”. Det. Michael Pivowar, Parke County Sheriffs Office, Rockville, IN.

“This was the first conference I have attended in my 9 years of law enforcement and it was a fantastic learning experience.” Justin J. Closen, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“Great Instructors and Great Class Diversity and Selection”. Jason Danner Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“Ken Davis & Dr. Rush they were great.” Michael Deese, Douglasville County Sheriffs Office, Douglasville, GA.

“Wide range of information available.” Jacob Beck, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“Tons of classes” and “Really enjoyed classes 64 & 20.” Marc Deshales, Ft. Wayne Police Department, Ft. Wayne, IN.

“I feel that my skills were expanded by attending”. Sgt. William Ceci Sr., Will County Sheriffs Office, Joliet, IL.

“The opportunity to listen to and learn from different specialists in gang investigations was great. Bringing different experiences and perspectives under one roof will elevate us all in the L.E. profession.” Marco A. Ayala, Lawrence Police Department, Lawrence, MA.

“NCIC class was great.” and “Most presenters seemed well organized & knowledgeable”. Officer Trent Howard, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“Your not in the same class listening to the same instructor in the same room the whole time”. Michael Spence, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Well organized considering the amount of classes.” and “I really enjoyed class 102. The instructor was excellent”. Laura Lightfoot, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“Training” and “Meeting Contacts From Over Country (Networking)”. Bryan Sylvester, Peoria Police Department, Peoria, IL.

“The conference provided a wealth of different subjects and expert presenters on those topics.” Robert Leman, Oakland County Sheriffs Office, Pontiac, MI.

“Presenters were very knowledgeable and informative.” John J. Grant, Indiana State Police, Ft. Wayne, IN.

“The amount of information”. Clint Fore, investigator, Biloxi Police Department, Biloxi, MS.

“Great instructors, great training.” Richard Hilliard, investigator, Biloxi Police Department, Biloxi, MS.

“The experience and good amount of knowledge.” Adam K. Siefman, Decatur Police Department, Decatur, IL.

“Variety of classes & fields.” Dustin Lind, Investigator, Lincoln Police Department, Lincoln, NE.

“The various classes and number of options for specialization”. Officer Lucas Liddle, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Cedar Rapids, IA.

“Presenters have a great passion for topics”. Det. Carlton Conway, Elkhart Police Department, Elkhart, IN.

“The Information!”. Keyon David Ashe, Department of Public Safety, Raleigh, NC.

“Excellent variety of classes and instructors.” Mark A. Taylor, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Networking and organization”. Chris Carter, FBI Federal Gang Task Force, Moline, IL.

“I enjoy how professional this conference is ran! Thank You!” and “I LOVE CHICAGO!”. Det. M. Santiago, Seattle Police Dept (Gang Unit), Seattle, WA.

“The instructors are very knowledgeable about what they are teaching.” Will Haley, Oakland County Sheriffs Office, Pontiac, MI.

“Freedom to choose my classes”. Michael Geddings, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“The variety of courses & various times available to attend the classes made it possible to attend the classes I wanted !!!” and “Thank You!!”. Robert T. Sevaaetasi, Gang Unit, Seattle Police Department, Bellevue, WA.

“Learned a lot of new and useful information.” Shalandra Burch, Department of Juvenile Justice, Chicago, IL.

“The instructors were very knowledgeable.” Brandon Singleton, Salt Lake Area Gang Project, Salt Lake City, UT.

“The NGCRC staff. Good communication with attendees.” Lt. William Loescher, Puyallup Tribal Police Department, Puyallup Tribee of Indians , Tacoma, WA.

“Getting to network with officers from around the country!”. Det. Juan Gonzalez, Douglasville Police Department, Douglasville, GA.

“Diversity of Education”. Benjamin A. Tobey, Portage Police Department, Portage, IN.

“The networking, resources learned. Also good updates since the last time I was here.” Ben Durian, Wyoming Department of Public Safety, Wyoming, MI.

“The variety of speakers, topics, & classes.” Jason Caster, Wyoming Department of Public Safety, Wyoming, MI.

“The speakers were very educated and professional, but kept the information unfiltered.” Jelani Coppage, Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office, Kansas City, KS.

“Many of the presenters were very knowledgeable, and had a great intel of the information they presented.” Adrienne D. Gilchrist, Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office, Kansas City, KS.

“I really enjoyed interacting with people of different agencies and backgrounds to learn about different gang problems & techniques”. Mark Boudreau, Flint Police Department, Flint, MI.

“Todd Negola is a phenomenal speaker, very interesting & keeps audience engaged”. Officer Sean McCoy, North Aurora Police Department, North Aurora, IL.

“Staff and presenters were very informative and helpful. Hotel was great and very clean. It was great networking with LEO’s from all over country”. Officer David Parr, North Aurora Police Department, North Aurora, IL.

“A large choice of courses.” Robert G. Rose, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“Several quality speakers presented new ideas and concepts I can take back to my department.”and “The networking reception & complimentary cubs ticket are always a plus!”. Thomas W. Epps, Knoxville Police Department, Knoxville, TN.

“The ability to network with other law enforcement officers that can assist with investigations and issues that are entering in Canada.” Constable David Jorgensen, Victoria Police Department, Victoria, BC, Canada.

“I liked being able to choose which classes to attend. Great variety.” Shauna K. Spurgess, FBI, Detroit, MI.

“The amount of seminars”. Joe Piscitelli, Rosemont Police Service, Rosemont, IL.

“Wide range of topics covered”. Anthony DiIacova, Rosemont Police Service, Rosemont, IL.

- - - -

THRASHER AWARDS:

A Call for Nominations

The Thrasher Award is named in honor of Frederic Milton Thrasher, the author of the classic 1927 study of Chicago gangs, who generated the first social scientific analysis of gangs. Some say he started a new field of study: gangology.

Thrasher is known for his book The Gang: 1,313 Gangs in Chicago.

The Thrasher Awards recognize outstanding contributions in research, scholarship, service, leadership, and other related accomplishments in dealing with the gang problem.

The Thrasher Award is international in scope, and has recognized a number of different experts and leaders in countries outside of the Unites States. Foreign recipients in the past have included gang experts from South Africa, the West Indies, Canada, Turkey, Great Britain, El Salvador, and Denmark.

The Thrasher Awards began in 1997 and have been a feature of the Offical Opening Ceremony of the NGCRC's annual international gang specialist training conference ever since. In 2025 the NGCRC celebrates 28 years of continuous, uninterrupted, classroom-based training in Chicago.

If you know someone who has achieved something outstanding in this area, then please send your nominations to: The 2025 Thrasher Awards Committee, National Gang Crime Research Center, P.O. Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. You can fax these as well: (708) 258-9546. You can email as well to: gangcrime@aol.com

Your nomination should be in the form of an official letter addressed to the NGCRC's 2025 Thrasher Awards Committee. It should indicate the primary category of accomplishment: remember the Thrasher Award recognizes outstanding contributions in research, scholarship, service, leadership, and other related accomplishments in dealing with the gang problem. Provides as much detail as you can and include any supportive documentation you feel is relevant (news coverage, endorsements, program history, historical summaries, etc). In no case should the full nomination narrative letter and supportive documentation exceed thirty typed pages.

The policy of the NGCRC is to provide complete and absolute identity protection to those who would want to nominate someone for a Thrasher Awards. The identity of a person or organization that would nominate someone for a Thrasher Award is therefore protected by this explicit written policy of the NGCRC. We will not reveal this information to recipients, it is considered confidential information. But by the same token, the NGCRC cannot accept "anonymous nominations". As a general guideline, for "how to prepare" a nomination: one cover letter, and then whatever attachments and documents you feel are necessary to support the nomination. Attachments can include: statements or letters from others, corroborating the nomination, newspaper coverage, any forms of documentation that can support the nomination.

Thrasher Awards will be made at NGCRC's 2025 Twenty Eighth International Gang Specialist Training Program for persons who have made outstanding contributions in research, scholarship, service, leadership, and other accomplishments in dealing with the gang problem. These Awards cannot be made in absentia.

Thrasher Awards are made on-site during the Conference in a special ceremony. Awards ceremony time and date is as follows: Monday, 7:00am, August 4, 2025, Chicago Ballroom, Westin Michigan Avenue Hotel. Award Recipients must be seated in the front row area. Arrive just before 7am and check in with the staff in front, tell them you are an Award Recipient.

Preliminary List of Thrasher Award Recipients for 2025:

TBA

Why the NGCRC has continued to set the "Gold Standard" for Gang Training:

The National Gang Crime Research Center (NGCRC) has pioneered the field by first of all being producers of gang knowledge, publishing and disseminating useful information recognized at the highest levels of the social scientific community. Additionally, the NGCRC has a long track record of service (1990 to present) to law enforcement and correctional agencies nationwide in the goal of reducing gang violence. The research and intelligence analysis developed by the NGCRC over the years, and published in its scholarly journal, the Journal of Gang Research (now in its 30th year of publication), is of great practical value for gang investigators in law enforcement and STG coordinators in the field of corrections. Gang investigators at all levels of government, here and abroad, as well as gang/STG experts in corrections who attend the NGCRC training conferences have clearly made their views known that the NGCRC training is the best in regard to offering high quality practical choices. Police and corrections experts teach a variety of courses at the NGCRC training conference.

The NGCRC, unlike other gang training groups, has a high level of transparency. The NGCRC provides a enormous amount of information about all details of the training conference. A lot of work goes into providing attendees with voluminous information about every aspect of the conference: from information about the trainers, to the descriptions of courses, to the tours, receptions, and special networkng events. The NGCRC even provides a preliminary schedule of events months before the actual training date, so that an attendee can literally "map out" and create an full personlized training experience by picking and choosing what to attend in advance. The NGCRC model illustrates a high level of professionalism.

The NGCRC training conference is specifically designed to “train the trainer”: someone who completes the training will be able to return to their police department or institution equipped to train others. Investigators return with a wealth of printed information, and lots of new “networking contacts”: persons to call upon in the future.

GOOD TO VERIFY IF YOU AREACTUALLY REGISTED FOR THISCONFERENCE:

It is good to verify it if you think you are registered for this conference and if you have not received what is called a "Confirmation of Conference Registration" letter from the NGCRC.

The NGCRC sends out a "registration confirmation" to everyone who is actually registered forthe conference. This letter documents what training track you may have signed up for, and canalso serve as a receipt for payment of conference fees.

So if you think you are registered and you have not received a "Registration Confirmation", thenyou may want to use a VERIFY MY REGISTRATION FORM. This form can be faxed or mailedin to the NGCRC and we will be able to promptly verify back to you if you are or are notregistered. Please no phone or email inquiries: we need it in writing.

This procedure is particularly helpful if your agency has "dropped the ball" in terms of getting the registration form/payment mailed off to the NGCRC.

You would not be eligible to register for the conference if you cannot sign the Policy statement on the regular NGCRC registration form; as a long standing rule, we do not allow journalists or defense attorneys because of the disruptive chilling effect they have. This is a mostly police conference: no one is authorized to take photographs or digitital recordings of any kind at the NGCRC conference, it is simply true that we get a lot of undercover detectives who deserve to have their privacy protected. We do not allow researchers to attend the Conference with the intent to use the attendees as informal or qualitative "data".

The Verify My Registration Form

Name:_______________________________________________________________________________________

Mailingaddress:________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

City, State,Zip:________________________________________________________________________________

Fax my confirmation back to me at this fax number: Area Code:________ FaxNumber:__________________________

PROCEDURE FOR REGISTERING BY MEANS OF A PURCHASE ORDER

While most people pay by credit card or check the NGCRC can accept goverenment Purhase Orders (PO). This explains the new streamlined policy and procedure for persons from government agencies who seek to register for the 2025 NGCRC Training Conference by means of a Purchase Order or related type of procurement method. There are four main provisions of this policy and procedure and they are as follows:

1. A purchase order number must be provided on the form used by the Agency, and it must bear asignature. It should reflect that the payee will be the NGCRC and the form should also reflect thespecific amount payable to the NGCRC (call if you have any questions in this regard). Pleaseprovide any special billing information (e.g., who specifically we should make the Invoice out toand where specifically we should mail the Invoice to).

2. Fax your registration forms and the Purchase Order to the NGCRC ASAP. The NGCRC fax number is (708) 258-9546. After faxing it in, simply complete the registration form and attach a purchase order and mail it in ASAP to: National Gang Crime Research Center, Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468. Or fax it. Please note that the NGCRC will not accept “onsite” registrations by means of oral declarations that “my agency is going to pay for it”, and will not accept on-site purchase orders. If you are planning to pay by means of Purchase Order, then it must be done before the conference.

3. Upon receipt of the registration form(s) and the purchase order form (or a letter head proforma version) the NGCRC will register the persons(s) and issue their agency an Invoice. The expected terms of the Invoice are that your agency pays "Net 30 Days". If you need something other than a "NET 30", then you need to discuss and inquire with the NGCRC about that in advance of issung a Purchase Order. At the same time, the NGCRC will send individual letters confirming the registration to those persons. There are no “on-site” registration options for payment by means of a Purchase Order.

4. Those registering by means of a Purchase Order or if paying by a credit card can simply fax in their registrations, the fax number for the NGCRC is (708) 258-9546. They can also email to: gangcrime@aol.com

THE TRAINING SCHEDULE:

The training schedule is as follows:

August 3 (Sunday), 2025: You can register from 3:00pm to 10:00pm, pick up your badge and bag of goodies. Early bird sessions 3pm-5pm and 5pm-7pm.

August 4 (Monday), 2025: Opening day begins 7am with an Official Welcoming Ceremony. Classes begin at 8:00am. And continue into the night.

August 5 (Tuesday), 2025: early riser sessions begin 6am; regular sessions begin 8am and continue into the night.

August 6 (Wednesday), 2025: early riser sessions begin 6am; regular sessions begin 8am, and terminate at 5:00p.m. You must pick up your certificates before 6:00pm.

Note: we provide early morning sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday; we provide noon sessions; and we provide early evening sessions on Mon. And Tues. Evenings — this "extra credit" allows persons to accumulate 24 hours of training by using the “customized schedule”, and by accumulating four hours out of the regular schedule allows you to leave at noon on Wednesday (giving you much flexibility on airline schedules for departing Chicago on Wednesday). These "early morning sessions" begin at either 6am or 7am; the evening courses begin at 5pm and can go up till 10pm if we need to. Thus, when you complete your 24 hours, you are eligible to depart with your certificates. Clothing suggestion: business casual.

The full schedule of events provides a day by day, hour by hour, room by room description of all events at the 2025 Conference, it is located at: https://www.ngcrc.com/schedule.html

An Option for 2025: The Double Major

(Signing Up for Two Tracks)

The NGCRC has had repeated requests for this over the years, the idea of having a "doublemajor": i.e., to be able to sign up for two (2) different specialty track areas. The benefit, ofcourse, is that such a "double major" would result in two different specialty track certificates: onecertificate for each of the two tracks.

The NGCRC is pleased to announce that the double major option is now available and it isdescribed here.

Q: What does it mean to have a double major?

A: All it means is you can have two "tracks"; you have to log in a minimum of four hours in eachof the two specialty areas.

Q: How many certificates do I get if I am registered for non-certification?

A: None.

Q: How many certificates do I get if I registered for certification?

A: Two: one for your program of study reflecting the completion of the 2025 program consisting of 24 hours of training, and one for your specialty area. Previously in history people attending the conference could only have one track.

Q: If I sign up for the Double Major or "two track option", how many certificates will I get?

A: Three: your basic 24 hour program completion certificate, and then one each for each of thetwo (2) different tracks.

Q: How much does it cost to sign up for the Two Track Option?

A: $90.00 if paid before July 1^st; $105 if paid on or after that or onsite.

Q: What if there is a scheduling conflict and I discover at the conference I cannot accumulate theminimum number of hours in one of the two tracks?

A: We will refund your Two Track Option amount in full, no problem; and return you to the onetrack registration mode of your choice.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

The Two Track Sign Up Form

Yes, sign me up for the Double Major.

Print Name:____________________________________________________

Address:______________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:_________________________________________________

Print name of 2^nd Track here:_______________________________________

Enclose $90.00 check or money order made payable to the National Gang Crime ResearchCenter, and mail to: NGCRC, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468-0990.

If paying on or after July 31, 2025 please note that the fee increases to $105.

PAYMENT METHOD: We do accept credit card payments.

_____Payment enclosed in check or money order made payable to "National Gang Crime Research Center"

_____VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover (Circle one).

Card number:________________________________________________________________________________

Expiration date: Month___________________________ Year:_______________________ CVC# On card:______

Name on card: (printed):___________________________________________________________________

Telephone of card holder in case we need to call:_________________________________________________

Your Signature:________________________________ Amount you authorize to charge (total):__$______________

Billing Address for the card holder(Printed): (street address)__________________________________________________________
Zip Code for the Billing Address:__________________________________

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

GOT QUESTIONS: Call the NGCRC at (708) 258-9111

The "Added Value" of NGCRC Training:

The added value of NGCRC training is easy to explain and it is designed to be different than other groups who sponsor such training conferences: you get more for your money. You see that reflected in the evaluation results from previous NGCRC Conferences. Other people "copy" what we do, or they try to. But you can do a quick check of facts here: who else offers as many different sessions or courses than the NGCRC? It is such a huge and massive undertaking, that persons who attend this conference benefit from the very factor of "diversity" in the choices they have ---- what they want to learn, what instructors they want to learn from, etc

First, all NGCRC trainees are given a wealth of high-quality take home printed trainingmaterials. The value of these books, reflecting the official books and journals from the NGCRCand related topics of interest about gangs, is itself a value comparable to the price of trainingitself. Most gang training programs provide a small amount of take-home written trainingmaterials, while the NGCRC provides an abundance of high-quality written take-home trainingmaterials. All persons attending the conference receive a "bag of goodies" which includes thesekinds of useful written take-home training materials.

Secondly, no other training organization in the world provides the large variety of training options that the NGCRC provides; the NGCRC brings in more trainers and provides, therefore, more "choices" to trainees. NGCRC provides a large professional training experience in an environment designed for training. For example in the 2023 Conference there were over one hundred different sessions. Typically, gang conferences offer a small selection of training options. So if you think a variety of choices is a good thing, then you need to attend our training conference.

Thirdly, the NGCRC training is designed to produce "trainers": trainees who attend and complete the training typically return to their respective jurisdictions with an incredible new arsenal of training tools to train others in the field. You will get new and useful gang information at our 2024 Training Conference.

Fourthly, the NGCRC training includes social opportunities that are structured to enhance theability of the trainee to network with others in the field at a national and international level.

BENEFITS OF ATTENDING THE 2025 NGCRC TRAINING CONFERENCE:

You have the power to "choose" what you want to learn. You have the right to "major in" whatarea of specialization or concentration you are interested in. Our conference provides anincredible array of different professional gang training sessions that trainees can make up theirown minds what they want to attend. This is not the "one size fits all" model of training whereevery trainee attends each of a small limited number of training sessions and every trainer worksall day to give the same talk three or four times. Our training program provides what we thinkpeople really want: the freedom to choose what kind of training they want from an incredible listof available choices. If you wanted a "Crash Course" on gangs, then this would be it.

There has never been a gang training conference where people can "specialize" in a wide variety of areas of expertise. So the 2025 NGCRC Gang Training Conference really is a "history making event". It allows persons to network with others in their special area of interests and it has the organizational strength of much diversity among the trainers. It also has curriculum materials that are truly "cutting-edge". No one else promises you NETWORKING RESULTS. We do, based on previous performance.

Obviously, no single person could ever attend each and every one of the many different sessions that will be available for the 2025 NGCRC 28th International Gang Specialist Training Program: one person has only 24 hours to spend in classroom training. There may be six or more different "sessions" being taught at the same time: you can only be in one place at one time. So make your session choices wisely by studying the huge curriculum.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATIONOPTIONS:

Trainees can register for Non-Certification or they can register for Certification. Both of theseregistration options are explained below.

Non-Certification: This option is for those who do not need a transcript to be maintained oftheir training experience and who do not desire a high quality certificate in an upward path ofgang specialist training. This option is best for those who just want to attend, get the trainingmaterials, and be free to come and go as they wish. Trainees are eligible to receive 24 hours ofon-site training during the conference. Please note that if you register for non-certification you donot receive any certificates of your training. Non-certification trainees do receive the same highquality set of take home training materials as those who register for Certification. Personsregistering for non-certification are allowed to "upgrade" their registration to Certification; pleaseinquire in writing about this procedure.

Certification: The certification is provided by the National Gang Crime Research Center, the premier gang research organization in the world, founded in 1990 it publishes the only professional international refereed journal about gangs (the Journal of Gang Research), it does extensive research on gangs, and it has a strong positive track record for providing high quality training on gang issues. TheJournal of Gang Research has 30+ years of gang research publishing experience and as the Official Publication of the NGCRC it is abstracted in the Psychological Abstracts, Criminal Justice Abstracts, Sociological Abstracts, Social Service Abstracts, and other international organizations that recognize professional journals. For more information about the accomplishments of the NGCRC, see its webpage information (www.ngcrc.com). The NGCRC was given much positive attention in the November/December 2002 (No. 67) National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS) Catalog, U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs as a source of useful information on gangs (pp. 15, 17; this is not "advertising", because the NGCRC reports it recommended at our Web site were not government-funded and the NGCRC is not government funded, thus it is simply achieved positive recognition.

There are a number of different choices for a person seeking certification. You must select ONE of these areas of specialization for your own designated track when you register for certification.

When you register for certification, you select one "track" as your primary interest area. Your"track" is like your "major" in college. You must spend at least four hours in sessions designatedfor your "track". The other 20 hours of training are "electives": spend that time in any session youwant to attend.

When you register for certification you receive two professionally printed color certificates of high display quality reflecting your training. One of these certificates reflects the completion of the 2021 Training Program (acknowleging you have completed 24 hours of training while in Chicago); and the second certificate reflects your specialized training in your chosen track area (acknowledging that you have completed a minimum of four hours of training in this track area). Those registering for non-certification do not receive such certificates.

The certificate we offer is designed for the gang specialist. The gang specialist is a person who works in the fields of expertise in the track areas and who deals in some way with the gang problem. The certificate we offer is not designed for the general public as a route to being employed in any of these track areas. The NGCRC training is not like the "Gangs 101" training offered by a local police or corrections training academy. The NGCRC training is more cerebral, it is more appreciative of criminological research and it is recognizes that sworn personnel can integrate with civilian specialists in the learning environment. The NGCRC does not solicit attendance from the general public. Rather the NGCRC explicitly reaches out to those persons working in a variety of professions that deal with the gang problem (law enforcement, county jail, county adult and juvenile probation officers, state prison and parole staff, prosecutors, public school safety/SRO staff, etc.

While there is no educational requirement or prerequisite to receive NGCRC training, the NGCRC does not promise that by receiving its certificates that it would be a key to the door of a job in any profession. Mostly professionals attend NGCRC training, people with college degrees of some sort. We get a number of Ph.D.'s who attend the training. And of course we receive a number of people with less than two years of college or university training. There is much occupational and educational diversity among the trainees who attend the NGCRC training conference. Our ideal trainer is not just a published professional, but also a pioneer and recognized leader in his/her field.

Some Q & A About the NGCRC Gang Training Conference:

Q: Is the NGCRC an anti-hate organization?

A: Yes, we have a special training track dedicated to this issue and it is called "Hate Group/White Racist Extremist Gangs". The NGCRC carries out research on the issue and publishes information about the role of hate and how to develop policies that effectively monitor and reduce hate crime in its journal, the Journal of Gang Research, now in its 30th year of publication as a professional quarterly journal. The NGCRC is an anti-hate organization.

Q: I see a lot of your presenters have Ph.D.'s or are lawyers with the JD degree, do you have to have a graduate degree to teach for the NGCRC?

A: No, but we prefer that our presenters be published professionals. The NGCRC recruits presenters who are highly qualified to speak to whatever subject matter their presentation focuses on.

Q: If I sign up for the eveing ride-alongs with the Chicago Police Department, do those hours count towards my required 24 hours for cerification?

A: No, but you will be enriched by the rewarding experience.

Q: I see from reading the "comments" from persons who have previously completed NGCRC training events that they describe the NGCRC conference as being "very organized" and "well planned", can you tell me next year's dates so I can start filling out the paper work now?

A: Yes, just call the NGCRC and ask, 708 258-9111

Q: What distinguishes the NGCRC from other providers of gang training services?

A: The NGCRC has over 30 years of service to the American criminal justice system (law enforcement, adult and juvenile corrections, prosecution, probation, etc); the NGCRC has a legacy of carrying out large scale gang research projects of much import and usefulness to the criminal justice system and schools, communities; the NGCRC has a remarkable and unparalleled history of publishing and disseminating useful information about dealing with the gang problem through the Journal of Gang Research (the official publication of the NGCRC) and The Gang Specialist newspaper we distribute free of charge; the NGCRC has a high level of accountability, each attendee has a lengthy evaluation form which becomes the transcript and official record of their attendance at any NGCRC training event; there is an NGCRC management and planning committee that reviews these annual evaluations for the purpose of improving operations and for feedback to specific presenters (an SPSS statistical analysis is made of the evaluation data and presenter feedback is provided to presenters, while general feedback is reported in full at the NGCRC website); the NGCRC is highly organized and leaves little to chance, the most important functions at the NGCRC conference are directly supervised by NGCRC staff who are also on one of the Conference Management Committees, examples include the networking receptions which typically have the same experienced professional and courteous staff from one year to the next, this provides continuity in supervision over a span of years, so these NGCRC staff have no learning curve to face, they know what they are doing, and they know how to do it.

Q: Does the NGCRC Provide Any Help on Parking?

A: The NGCRC lacks that ability. Parking can cost over $72 day (overnight) if you park at the hotel. Fact: There is no cheap parking in Chicago. The NGCRC has no control or authority over parking costs in Chicago. Nor can the NGCRC endorse any of the number of different I-phone and Android apps (e.g., "spothero") that claim to find you and guarantee you affordable parking. The City of Chicago Parking Garages are known to have the most competitive rates. Good website to find parking as close as next door to the hotel at the Water Tower Place: www.chicagoparkingmap.com

Q: Any special advice for people who are considering making a presentation at the NGCRC Conference?

A: At the start of your session, right after giving the title slide to your Power Point presentation, give an OUTLINE slide. This way attendees will know what will and what will not be covered in your session. This way they cannot complain the title does not match your content. Beware of Receiving the Criticism that Your Title Does Not Match Your Session Content. Target harden your session against this potential criticism by having an outline that corresponds to the structure an content of your training goals. Consider putting handouts on a website or make available by request through email. A presenter could also insert the sentence at the end of his/her session: "Attendees at this session will be provided online access or an emailed version of the hand-outs shortly after the conference if they request it while attending the session and completing the sign-in sheet email-handout request form inside the presenters training room.

Q: How do I pick my courses, how do I pick what sessions I should attend?

A: You will have an evaluation form where you check off how much time you spent at the conference, and in which sessions. If you are registered for certification, then You need to log in (accumulate) four (N = 4) hours in your track area, and another 20 hours so that you have a total of N = 24 hours logged in during the three day conference. If you have a double major (two tracks), you need four hours minimum in each track, and then another 16 hours in any sessions you want to attend. The way to pick your classes is read the course listings (www.ngcrc.com/courses.html), you will notive that all sessions have a section called "Session Credits:" where the session lists the training tracks that it gives credit for. Look for sessions in your track area, you need a minimum of 4 hours in your track, the remaining 20 hours can be spent in your track or anywhere, it is your choice. You cannot attend all 100+ courses. You need to make a decision about what will help you the most. Do this by reading the session information (www.ngcrc.com/courses.html), then pick out 24 hours or so that you want to attend. Then go to the schedule and see if this works: www.ngcrc.com/schedule.html. If two of your choices are being taught at the same time, you have to pick one of them: most of the sessions or courses to not "repeat". You may need to go back to the session description information (www.ngcrc.com/courses.html) and pick a different session. Then check the schedule until you know you have a schedule that works for you.

CERTIFICATION UPGRADE:

This is applicable ONLY for those who have previously received certification from the NGCRC.The NGCRC provides for Certification Upgrades as explained here, free, automatically when youindicate your previous certification training with the NGCRC.

The registration form asks if you have completed prior Certification Training with the NGCRC.If you have, then you are eligible for a Certification Upgrade, so fill this out on the registrationform. This Certification Upgrade procedure recognizes the cumulative nature of training overtime (1997-present).

The intermediate, advanced, expert, professional, and master levels of certification thereforerecognize this prior NGCRC training. The Basic Training Program is for those persons who havecompleted no prior certification with the NGCRC. When you register for Certification, youreceive two certificates: one in your area of specialization, and one reflecting your level ofCertification. The levels of certification are explained below.

If you have previously obtained Certification from the NGCRC, then you are eligible for aCertification Upgrade to one of the following options:

Intermediate Level Training Program: completed 24 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Advanced Level Training Program: completed 48 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Expert Level Training Program: completed 72 hours of prior certification with NGCRC.

Trainer/Consultant Level Training Program: completed 96 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 1 (First Degree) Training Program: completed 120 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 2 (Second Degree) Training Program: completed 144 hours of prior certificationwith the NGCRC.

Master Level 3 (Third Degree) Training Program: completed 168 hours of prior certification withthe NGCRC.

Master Level 4 (Fourth Degree) Training Program: completed 192 hours of prior certificationwith the NGCRC.

Master Level 5 (Fifth Degree) Training Program: completed 216 hours of prior certification withthe NGCRC.

Master Level 6 (Sixth Degree) Training Program: completed 240 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 7 (Seventh Degree) Training Program: completed 264 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 8 (Eighth Degree) Training Program: completed 288 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 9 (Ninth Degree) Training Program: completed 312 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Master Level 10 (Tenth Degree) Training Program: completed 336 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Professional Level 1 (First Degree) Training Program: completed 360 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC.

Professional Level 2 (Second Degree) Training Program: completed 384 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 3 (Third Degree) Training Program: completed 408 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 4 (Fourth Degree) Training Program: Completed 432 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 5 (Fifth Degree) Training Program: Completed 456 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 6 (Sixth Degree) Training Program: Completed 456 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 7 (Seventh Degree) Training Program: Completed 480 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 8 (Eighth Degree) Training Program: Completed 504 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 9 (Ninth Degree) Training Progarm: Completed 528 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

Professional Level 10 (Tenth Degree) Training Program: Completed 552 hours of prior certification with the NGCRC

CERTIFICATION OPTIONS: Those who register for certification receive two high quality certificates reflecting their training. Those who register for non-certification receive no certificate. However, those who register for non-certification are eligible to upgrade to full certification anytime prior to the conference itself, just pay the $100 additional cost.

- - -

Upgrade from Non-Certification to Full Certification Form

My name is:_______________________________________________________________

I am already registered for Non-Certification. I wish to change my registration to full Certification.

My training track will be:______________________________________________________

I enclose $100.00 to upgrade my registration to full Certification.

You can also just pay for this On Site at the conference.

Upgrade from Non-Certification to Certification is available only on or before August7, 2024.

It cannot be done after the date at which the conference officially ends.

Mail this form to: NGCRC, Conference Processing Center, PO Box 990, Peotone, IL 60468

PAYMENT METHOD: We prefer checks or money orders for payment. No personal checks will be accepted for on-site payment of conference registration fees. We do accept credit card payments.