About Our Terrorism Liaison Officer Program

What is a Terrorism Liaison Officer?

A terrorism liaison officer (TLO) is an individual who has completed a fusion center recognized TLO Basic course in the state of California and can serve as a point of contact for a public safety agency in matters related to terrorism information and intelligence. A TLO, though not necessarily an expert in terrorism, attends meetings when able, receives training and intelligence from the local fusion center, online resources, and other agencies engaged in homeland security initiatives. The TLO then educates others within his or her agency, thereby enhancing situational awareness, early warning, and operational readiness.

Who Can Become a TLO Partner?

Law Enforcement  -  Fire / EMS  -  Public Health  -  Military

Benefits of Becoming a TLO Partner

  • Receive TLO training
  • Access to TLO materials and resources
  • OCIAC bulletins and notifications via email
  • Ability to connect with other TLO partners

How to Become a TLO Partner

1.Register for Training - See Calendar for Upcoming Classes
2.Complete the Training Class and Receive TLO Accreditation / Certification

  • TLO Basic - 8 hrs.
  • TLO Intermediate - Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) - 16 hrs. (Prerequisite - completion of TLO Basic)
  • TLO Advanced (various courses)
  • Certification  (POST & CE & STC)

Frequently Asked Questions

DO ALL TLOs PERFORM THE SAME DUTIES?

No. TLOs represent law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and public health agencies. Each of these disciplines has unique needs in dealing with the threat of terrorism. Although the information, intelligence, and training provided is frequently the same, the roles that these agencies play are quite different. As such, some TLOs may be more focused on detection and deterrence, whereas others may be more concerned with response issues. The role of the agency will dictate the specific responsibilities of their TLO.

WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL DUTIES OF A TLO?

  • Serving as their agency's point of contact in matters related to terrorism and terrorism-related tips and leads.
  • Maintaining a relationship with the local fusion center (such as the OCIAC); receiving and disseminating terrorism-related information and intelligence to others in their agency in a timely and lawful manner. Information and intelligence received must only be shared with those that have a valid need and right to know the information.
  • Helping others within their agency identify potential terrorism-related situations and share intelligence related to terrorist activity.
  • Receiving leads that originate from within their agency regarding suspicious activity that may be related to terrorism and forwarding the information to the local fusion center for follow-up. The TLO may also refer the reporting party to the fusion center for suspicious activity reporting.
  • Conducting, coordinating, and/or assisting with department training in topics related to terrorism.
  • Conducting, coordinating, and/or facilitating community meetings, conferences, and other terrorism information-sharing activities.