I would like to see it applied scientifically, to the people who the US govt says are the greatest threats to our national security - rightwing extremists.

They’re out there, they’re not hiding, and they’re easy to find. And their children sit next to yours in class.

How about FCPS do something about THAT?

It seems like if this were in Florida, DeSantis would attempt to weaponize it against his opponents. But it isn’t Florida, so aside from a little Minority Report vibes, seems sensible.

Just wondering…

Does this announcement make you parents feel safer?
======9/26/23 email from FX County BOS Chair McKay=============
The Fairfax County Police Department has just launched a new unit that specializes in analyzing and deciphering possible threats of violence by using methods such as mental health assistance and gun seizures. The purpose of this unit is to restrict, prevent, and divert threats.

The Threat Assessment and Management Unit (TAM) is responsible for investigating active violence incidents, bomb threats, and coordination of Emergency Substantial Risk Orders (ESRO). This unit is comprised of highly skilled officers and analysts taking a systematic approach to vet and prevent potential threats, while also providing intervention assistance to individuals who indicate that they may commit an act of violence in the future.
 
The TAM unit is all about prevention. Remember, you can also aid in preventing acts of violence. ESRO, commonly referred to as the “red flag law,” went into effect in July 2020 and is one of the ways we can all help prevent acts of violence. The law prevents individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing, possessing, or transporting any kind of firearm. In the first half of 2023, Fairfax County Police Department has already recovered 589 firearms, including 111 firearms temporarily seized pursuant to ESRO cases. If you know of someone with a gun acting in a way that concerns you, speak up to prevent a gun tragedy. To request an ESRO, call the Police non-emergency line at 703-691-2131. If there is an immediate danger, call or text 9-1-1. To read more about the new TAM unit, visit this FCPD news article.