Imagine a large-scale disaster, such as a major earthquake, terrorist attack, or cyberattack, has devastated a large metropolitan area
In this unit’s lesson, we explored constitutional law, civil liberties, and ethical decision-making in homeland security. These issues become especially acute during large-scale disaster scenarios, where federal and local agencies are called upon to make time-sensitive decisions under conditions of uncertainty, chaos, and public vulnerability. These actions must occur within the legal framework of the U.S. Constitution and be guided by ethical principles that reflect a commitment to justice, rights, and equity.
In Unit II, we examined the structure and functions of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its component agencies, such as FEMA, TSA, CBP, CISA, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Each of these agencies plays a specific role during emergency and disaster response, from deploying resources and managing public safety to ensuring border integrity and cybersecurity resilience. Understanding these institutional roles is critical for evaluating the legal and ethical dimensions of disaster response strategies.
Scenario
Imagine a large-scale disaster, such as a major earthquake, terrorist attack, or cyberattack, has devastated a large metropolitan area. In the aftermath, the following occurs.
· FEMA activates the National Response Framework and coordinates mass care operations.
· DHS authorizes the deployment of surveillance drones through CISA and other partners to monitor population movements.
· CBP and TSA extend security protocols to cover critical infrastructure like ports, highways, and airports.
· Local police and federal agents, operating under emergency declarations, impose curfews and conduct home searches in heavily damaged areas without warrants, citing exigent circumstances.
Instructions
Based on the above scenario, prepare a two-page essay that answers the following three questions:
· Do the actions taken in this scenario (e.g., curfews, surveillance, warrantless searches) raise legal or ethical concerns? Support your response using the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments and one ethical framework.
· How do the roles and responsibilities of DHS and its component agencies shape the response effort? Identify at least two agencies and explain their jurisdictional functions.
· As a homeland security leader, how would you balance protecting civil liberties with ensuring public safety during a disaster? Reflect on your personal values and priorities.
Formatting Requirements
· Submit as a Word document.
· Adhere to APA Style when constructing this assignment, including in-text citations and references for all sources that are used. Please note that no abstract is needed.
Course Textbook(s) Alperen, M. J. (2024). Foundations of homeland security and emergency management: Law and policy (3rd ed.). Wiley. https://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781394191611
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