Book excerpt: The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) was directed by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2004, to submit a report to Congress on "best such as sporting events, concerts, and cultural exhibitions. The report, "Planning and Managing Security for Major Special Events: Guidelines for Law Enforcement," was prepared after a nationwide study that included: Consultations with representatives of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and other agencies charged with providing high levels of security for major national events. Interviews with private security experts regarding such events as National Football League and National Basketball Association games. On-site observations of security planning and management for the Republican and Democratic National Conventions, Kentucky Derby, and other major events. Extensive telephone interviews with more than 40 local law enforcement agencies concerning best practices for securing major events in their jurisdictions. Reviews of relevant security plans, reports, articles, guidelines, and other documents produced by experts in event security planning and management."