Dallas Ambush: GW Experts on Mass Shootings, Police and Viral Videos Available to Comment

Newswise — Authorities are investigating the worst attack on law enforcement since 9/11 following the ambush in Dallas. George Washington University experts are available to discuss the psychology behind mass shooters, police practices and the effects of viral videos on news coverage.

To schedule interviews, contact GW Media Relations at 202-994-6460 or [email protected]. GW’s Flash Studio can accommodate live, remote or taped television and radio interviews.

Psychology of Mass ShootersRichard A. Cooter is the director of the Forensic Psychology Program at GW. Dr. Cooter performs psychological evaluations for courts and regularly represents individuals who are the subject of involuntary commitment proceedings. He can discuss the psychology of a would-be assassin and what motivates people to attack political leaders.

PolicingFrederic Lemieux, professor and program director of Police and Security Studies, is an expert in criminology. His research has focused on policing, homeland security and responses to mass shootings in the United States. Please note: Dr. Lemieux is only available for phone interviews.

Scott White is associate professor and director for cybersecurity at the GW College of Professional Studies. He is a criminologist with an accomplished career in security. Dr. White previously served as professor of national security management and director of the Computing and Security Technology program at Drexel University. He was a commissioned officer with the Canadian Forces Intelligence Command (Department of National Defence) and worked for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. He also served as an associate consultant in terrorism and intelligence analysis at Monad Security Audit Systems. Additionally, he has consulted with federal, state, provincial and municipal police services in the U.S., Canada and the U.K.

Media Analysis Lori Brainard, associate professor of public policy and public administration, is an expert on civic engagement and communication. She focuses on police departments’ uses of social media. She can discuss police use of social media in times of crisis and the effects that the rapid spread of police violence videos on social media may have.Please note: Dr. Brainard is only available for phone interviews.

Nikki Usher, assistant professor of media and public affairs, is an expert on journalism and social media. She can discuss how digital media is transforming the news industry, including how the spread of viral videos affects news coverage. She can also discuss how modern newsrooms gather and publish breaking news.

Race, Sexuality and ViolenceCalvin Warren, assistant professor of American studies, is a historian who has focused on the intersections of race, sexuality and violence. He can discuss hate-motivated violence and violence against LGBT people.

- GW -