04/27/2021
By Karen Mullins

The School of Criminology and Justice Studies is proud to announce a Dissertation Proposal Defense of Anthony M. Frongillo entitled "The Genesis and Development of a Suburban SWAT Team."

Date: Thursday, May 13
Time: 9 to 11 a.m.
Location: Zoom meeting

Committee:

  • Melissa Morabito, Chair
  • Christopher Harris
  • Jill Portnoy
  • Jason Rydberg

Abstract

This research on the genesis and development of one suburban Special Weapons and Tactics team in the northeastern United States employs a revelatory case study approach while using mixed methodology to investigate a few complex exploratory and explanatory research questions. Historically contextual data, along with a comprehensive literature review will frame the origins of these specialized units within American policing. Subsequently, document review, interviews, and surveys, all within the confines of organizational theory, aim to provide convergent evidence detailing this particular team’s distinctive perspective on its genesis and ensuing evolution over time. Both descriptive statistics and a time series analysis will evaluate this team’s performance relative to its specified goals and provide clarification on both its purpose and its outcomes over time. This research also aims to illuminate the depths of the underexplored facet of Special Weapons and Tactics Teams within American criminology, and evaluate policy implications and areas for future improvements.