International and counter-terrorism expert Robert Milton will speak at Northern Essex Community College Thursday, March 22, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This talk is free and open to the public.

British international and counter-terrorism expert Robert Milton will present a lecture titled “The Path to Violent Radicalization” at Northern Essex Community College on Thursday, March 22, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Hartleb Technology Center on the Haverhill campus, 100 Elliott St.

This event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the NECC Criminal Justice Club.

Milton will discuss the definition of violent radicalization and extremism, examine the process of violent radicalization; discuss what can be done to prevent an individual from becoming a violent extremist; and explore whether we can de-radicalize people.

A retired commander of the London Metropolitan Police Service, New Scotland Yard, he is established as a leading figure in national and international security. During his career he played a leading role in the development and delivery of national counter-terrorism strategies. He is regularly called upon by the national and international media to provide expert commentary on security, counter-terrorism, and policing. Just recently he was asked by media outlets to speak on the March 22 London attacks.

“Understanding radicalization and what leads an individual to become radicalized can help us develop programs and strategies early,”said Scott Joubert, a professor in NECC’s criminal justice program. “Bob Milton’s visit to Northern Essex is an opportunity for us to create awareness and start a dialogue.”

Milton is currently the managing director of Milton Tezelin Ltd, established in 2005 to deliver training and support to countries facing the threat of terrorism. He has worked closely with the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the European Commission and law enforcement, intelligence, security and military organizations across Asia to provide high level training programs that develop both individual capability and national capacity to successfully manage the risk of terrorism.

Currently Milton is on the Department of Homeland Security Academic Advisory Sub-committee on Countering Violent Extremism Committee. He is developing policies that will help identify radical behaviors on college/university campuses.

For additional information on this event contact Joubert at sjoubert@necc.mass.edu

Northern Essex offers associate degrees in criminal justice and criminal justice: private & public safety option (accelerated) and a certificate in law enforcement. They prepare individuals for careers as police officers, state troopers, corrections officers, or insurance investigators. The criminal justice program features programs to either enter the workforce directly or transfer to a four-year program.