Homeland Security Fusion Center

Strategic Analysis and Information Center
As a result of the 9/11 Commission Report, the National Network of Fusion Centers was created through a joint effort of US DHS, U.S. Department of Justice and the Office of National Intelligence. The Strategic Analysis and Information Center (SAIC) is one of 72 centers that make up the National Fusion Center Network, and is designated by the Governor as the primary State fusion center.

Created in 2005, its mission is to develop and support a statewide information sharing environment that is engaged with local, state and federal agencies from across Ohio in an effort to increase homeland security and support the national intelligence community.

The SAIC is an information sharing entity that supports local, state, and federal agencies as they investigate terrorism and other related criminal activity. Fusing information that includes suspicious activity from the public and private sectors begins the intelligence cycle and creates actionable intelligence products that give us the ability to detect and prevent terrorism. The SAIC provides for an environment where all agencies and disciplines can share information and capabilities. The general public is also a key resource in this effort. Ohio participates in the national terrorism awareness campaign, “If you See Something, Say Something,” to engage Ohio citizens in the homeland security effort.

The SAIC has received national recognition on three occasions:

• In 2008, the SAIC was recognized for its policy to protect privacy and civil rights. To access this privacy policy, click here.
• In March 2009, the SAIC was recognized by US DHS Secretary Napolitano as the National Fusion Center of the Year. This selection was made by the National Fusion Center Coordination Group and recognized the center for its excellence in developing a statewide information sharing environment.
• In 2009, the SAIC was awarded the 2009 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Honorary Security Intelligence Award for their accomplishments which have promoted security, through the effective sharing of intelligence and information in the overall prevention of terrorism. This award recognized the operational benefit that the SAIC has provided to both Ohio’s and US DHS TSA’s operations through comprehensive information and intelligence exchanges.
  
  

In 2010, the SAIC re-located to a 10,000 sq ft facility with state-of-the-art communication and audio-visual capabilities. Co-located with; the Columbus police terrorism early warning unit, U.S. DHS I&A; / TSA representatives and the FBI. The SAIC is one of the few fusion centers in the country to fully integrate state, local, federal and private resources.

More information regarding Fusion Centers can be found on the Dept. of Homeland Security website.