ADVISORY/Experts Available to Discuss FBI Warning That Al-Qaeda May Attempt Attack On U.S. Trains.

Business Editors

ADVISORY...

--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 25, 2002

TOPIC: Intelligence officials and the FBI warn that al-Qaeda may be planning an attack on U.S. passenger trains, according to an article by USA Today. The information came from interrogations of al-Qaeda prisoners this month as well as from materials taken from al-Qaeda camps. Among the threats reported by officials included bringing a bomb on board a train and destroying a rail bed to derail a train, the article says. The warning was given to Amtrak, commuter lines, subway systems and freight systems. In response, Amtrak has increased patrolling and surveillance, according to Ed Hamberger, president of the American Association of Railroads. EXPERTS: ExpertSource can offer several highly qualified experts to comment on this story:

John Cohen is the President and CEO of PSComm, LLC, a technology solutions management firm (with an emphasis on law enforcement and public safety) that helps governments and private sectors harness emerging information and communications technologies. Mr. Cohen has an extensive background in counter terrorism, public safety and national security issues. He served as a Special Agent with the US Department of Navy, Office of Naval Intelligence, a policy advisor in the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and a law enforcement officer, focusing on drug enforcement investigations, international crime and national security. Mr. Cohen is currently Co-Director of the Progressive Policy Institute's Homeland Security Task Force. He is frequently interviewed for his views on homeland security, and he has written and lectured extensively on related issues such as digital government technology, first responder needs and racial profiling. Mr. Cohen was responsible for the development of the 311 non-emergency telephone number concept while he was Senior Executive at AT&T. He oversaw the implementation of 311 in Baltimore and successfully led the effort to gain the FCC's designation of 311 as the national police non-emergency and government services number. PR: Carolyn Hong, 301-222-1450, [e-mail]

Ray Lashley, of Lashley Advanced Bi-Rail Systems, Inc. (LABIS), is a transportation engineer and developer of LABIS concept high speed consumer rail. Has been developing alternative rail project for 15 years. Formerly with the United States Government Department of Defense. Has developed a reputation for innovation and problem solving. 970-243-1849, [e-mail]

Professor Michael Stohl, of Purdue University, is an expert regarding political science and terrorism. 765-494-9399, 765-494-4600 (University PR Phone)

ExpertSource cannot guarantee the immediate availability of these experts or their familiarity with this specific issue.

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