Corrections_Today_January_February_2024_Vol.86_No.1

NEWS&VIEWS

anomalies that would be impossible for humans to identify given resource constraints. When AI is added to the mix, investigators have a visual picture of the complex networks and connections between various individu als and groups. By leveraging OSINT’s broad data access and automation capabilities, understaffed prisons can proactively identify gang activity and prevent their growth. OSINT solutions provide expanded visibility and early threat detection to stop gangs and other STGs from asserting dominance. As prison officials grapple with critical staff shortages, tools such as OSINT are essential to denying control to criminal elements and maintaining safety in undermanned facilities.

Adoption of OSINT does require changes to workflows, policies, and culture. As a result, there might be resistance to new technologies or re luctance to trust AI. However, proper training and governance are essential

for successful implementation of OSINT assisted by AI. The efficiency gains OSINT provides are becom ing vital for understaffed corrections departments hoping to maintain security and order.

Mark Wasson has over 20 years of hands-on experience in all aspects of state and federal corrections. Mark began his career with the Kentucky Department of Corrections and served as a Corrections Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Classification and Treatment Officer, Probation and Parole Officer, Corrections Emergency Response Team (CERT/CERT Regional Commander), Internal Affairs Lieutenant and Internal Affairs Branch Manager. Wasson also received a HERO Award and Officer of the Year while at the Kentucky Department of

Corrections. Mark has since specialized in assisting multiple law enforcement agencies and their partners on a national level in building and training their intelligence, contraband interdiction, digital forensics, drone, and mobile assessment programs utilizing new technologies. Additionally, agencies placed an emphasis on tasking him with conducting complex and sensitive criminal and non-criminal investigations based on advanced intelligence analysis and applications.

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24 — January/February 2024 Corrections Today