2026 Gatlinburg Law Enforcement Conference Agenda Summary
“Enhancing Public Safety through Law Enforcement Excellence”
The agenda is structured to advance law enforcement excellence by addressing emerging challenges, facilitating the exchange of best practices, and supporting officer well-being.
Tuesday, May 5, 2026: The Keynote Address will be delivered by Deputy Attorney General of the United States, Todd Blanche (tentative).
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (Morning Session):
Speaker: Scott D. Payne, Author of Pale Horse: How I Went Undercover to Expose America’s Nazis
New York Times bestseller • Code Name: Pale Horse chronicles the true story of Scott Payne, an undercover FBI agent who infiltrated the neo-Nazi organization known as The Base. In addition to his work against this group, Payne targeted the Outlaw Motorcycle Club, contributed to efforts against the opioid crisis, and conducted operations within the Ku Klux Klan. Despite considerable risks, he maintained a balance between his professional responsibilities, family life, and personal faith. This book provides a timely perspective on threats to national security while offering an authentic account of one agent’s commitment to justice.
Thursday, May 7, 2026 will feature a Presentation on Leadership and Critical Incidents - Officer involved shooting Presentation, as well as other current topics.
The agenda will encompass a broad range of current topics in law enforcement and public safety. The full agenda is listed below this summary.
Emerging Threats & Incident Response
- Hoax bombing and swatting incidents
- Integrated response to mass shootings
- Disrupting transnational human trafficking networks
Technology & Investigations
- Utilizing artificial intelligence in solving cold cases
- Social networking investigations and technology threats
- Sextortion cases and child exploitation “764” Extremist online network (including presentations by the FBI and US Secret Service)
Officer Wellness & Resilience
- Mental health and resilience strategies for law enforcement
- Surviving drug enforcement operations
- Safety through mental health programs (Valor)
Specialized Law Enforcement Skills
- Undercover operations
- Drug-related investigations and death investigations
- Case studies from experienced professionals
Conference Activities
- Keynote addresses
- Opening and closing ceremonies
- Networking opportunities and prize drawings
