SST will deliver a critical session on the intersection of online drug trends, substance use, gang-associated behavior and threat assessment. With platforms such as Discord, Snapchat, and Telegram increasingly used for the illegal buying and selling of substances, Safety and Threat Assessment (S/TA) teams and law enforcement must understand how these spaces may fuel risk-enhancing behaviors among youth.

This workshop equips participants with the tools to identify timely digital leakage, assess the evolving drug-related coded language and respond to worrisome digital trends. Using real-world case walk-throughs, SST will highlight how online negative peer groups are targeting High Risk and Vulnerable Youth (HRVY), and why Digital Threat Assessment® (DTA®) continues to be essential in preventing tragedy. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for early prevention, identification, and intervention.