The Watch Center provides tactical intelligence support to law enforcement agencies throughout the HIDTA region. Its specially trained staff (drawn from the region's law enforcement agencies and National Guard units) makes use of state of the art technology to improve the effectiveness of law enforcement operations and promote officer safety. Any federal, state or local law enforcement officer operating in the HIDTA region may apply for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) that will allow him or her to access the Center's services.

Case Management Services

The Watch Center also provides case/subject deconfliction and case management services using the HIDTA's Case Explorer system to promote more efficient use of investigative resources and interagency cooperation.

Reducing Risk

Another valuable service provided by the Watch Center is its Deconfliction Event Information System (DEIS), which allows agencies throughout the HIDTA region to submit information about upcoming high-risk events (such as buy-bust operations or the execution of search warrants) and alerts Watch Center staff to possible geographic conflicts with other known high-risk events. In the event that a possible conflict is detected, the Watch Center's Commander or Deputy Commander will alert all agencies involved and provide contact information for each of the other agencies involved, allowing law enforcement personnel to resolve the issue prior to the beginning of their operations. This system is a powerful tool for reducing the dangers that high-risk events pose to both law enforcement personnel and the general public.

Locating Suspects’ Financial Accounts

As part of its ongoing efforts to identify new resources and sources of information to support drug enforcement efforts, the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA recently joined the Maryland Association for Bank Security (MABS). Founded in 1972 by bank security officers, the Association seeks to advance the exchange of information between financial institutions and the law enforcement community. MABS can assist investigators in locating suspects’ accounts in member banks and financial institutions in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Investigators seeking assistance in locating suspects’ financial accounts are encouraged to contact the Watch Center to take advantage of this new resource.