This document provides an overview of the federal COPS program since its inception and especially since the events of September 11, 2001. Describes how the ongoing threat of terrorism presents state, local, and tribal law enforcement with broad new challenges that range from resource allocation and curbing public fear to intelligence-gathering and crisis planning. Suggests that community oriented policing is even more relevant as law enforcement agencies are seeking new and more effective methods of protecting cities and counties nationwide. Prepared by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.