Behavioral Threat Assessment: Predicting and Preventing Crises Before They Happen

At Preventative Measures Investigations (PMI), we understand that preventing violence starts with careful observation and early intervention. Our Behavioral Threat Assessment service employs a structured, evidence-based process to identify individuals who may pose a potential threat. Drawing on methodologies endorsed by leading experts and agencies, PMI integrates rigorous analysis with actionable solutions.

The foundation of our approach lies in identifying pre-incident indicators, or PINs. These are observable behaviors that often precede violent action. Indicators may include increased fixation on weapons, expressions of grievance or intent, social withdrawal, or leakage of violent thoughts. These warning signs offer an early opportunity to intervene, ideally before any harm occurs.

Research and national policy emphasize the importance of behavioral threat assessment over profiling. Rather than labeling individuals based on characteristics, the focus is placed on behavior, context, and situational factors. PMI follows this guidance to ensure assessments are objective, legally sound, and ethically executed.

Our process begins with gathering concerns from employers, schools, families, or institutions. From there, we conduct interviews, analyze digital footprints, assess past behaviors, and evaluate access to potential means of violence. Our analysis incorporates intent, capability, and opportunity, mirroring best practices recommended by security, law enforcement, and mental health professionals.

Once a comprehensive risk assessment is completed, PMI provides tailored recommendations to de-escalate the threat. These can include increased supervision, intervention plans, law enforcement coordination, or referrals to support resources. Our objective is not punishment but prevention.

Behavioral threat assessment works best when it is part of a multi-disciplinary strategy. PMI collaborates with legal advisors, educators, security teams, and mental health experts to create a complete risk management solution. This ensures our findings are not only investigative in nature but also aligned with broader safety and support goals.

Behavioral threat assessment is not about predicting who will commit violence. It is about evaluating potential pathways to violence and intervening before someone takes that final step. At PMI, we help our clients recognize when concern becomes risk—and how to respond with precision, professionalism, and purpose.

PMI Source References

1. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, National Threat Evaluation and Reporting Office – "Behavioral Indicators: Identifying Threats Before They Materialize"

2. Fein, R., Vossekuil, B., & Holden, G. (2002). Threat Assessment: An Approach to Prevent Targeted Violence. U.S. Secret Service

3. National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) – "Best Practices in Threat Assessment for Schools"

4. Cornell, D., & Sheras, P. (2006). Guidelines for Responding to Student Threats of Violence

5. Borum, R., Fein, R., Vossekuil, B., & Berglund, J. (1999). Threat Assessment: Defining an Emerging Discipline

6. U.S. Secret Service & Department of Education – Final Report and Findings of the Safe School Initiative: Implications for the Prevention of School Attacks in the United States

7. Randazzo, M. et al. (2006). The Role of Behavioral Threat Assessment in Preventing Targeted Violence