Ohio Homeland Security Turns 20

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(Columbus) — Ohio Homeland Security (OHS), a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS), celebrated its 20th anniversary September 25th during a ceremony at ODPS headquarters and noted that sharing security-related information changed greatly since 9/11. 

During the ceremony, officials looked back at all of OHS’ accomplishments over the last two decades.  A handful of partners who have all been working tirelessly behind-the-scenes to help keep Ohioans safe for the past two decades were recognized, including the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association, the Ohio Fire Chief’s Association, and eight regional intelligence liaison organizations.

“Keeping Ohioans safe and our state secure is our priority,” ODPS Director Andy Wilson said. “For 20 years now, Ohio Homeland Security has helped lead those efforts by bringing partners together, sharing information, and acting on intelligence when necessary.”

One of the biggest changes in the past 20 years is how law enforcement intelligence information is handled. Before Sept. 11th, 2001, intelligence information was often siloed. Today, that information is shared broadly in an effort to protect Ohioans and the important infrastructure that is part of modern-day life.

At the ceremony, Director Wilson read a letter from former President George W. Bush, who served as commander-in-chief during the terrorist attacks and the creation of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Governor DeWine also delivered a congratulatory message via video.

OHS was formed Sept. 26, 2003, 90 days after then-governor Bob Taft signed the bill that created the division within ODPS. The safety and security of Ohio and its residents are bolstered by OHS through its operation of the Statewide Terrorism Analysis & Crime Center, the Intelligence Liaison Officer program, the Ohio Public Private Partnership, the Communication & Information Management System, the Critical Infrastructure and Cyber Protection Program, and the Private Investigator Security Guard Services.