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Center on Shadow Economics

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Phoenix, AZ
Center on Shadow Economics

The Center on Shadow Economics (CSE) is a nonprofit think tank disrupting the shadow economy — the criminal engine that drains communities.

We focus on smarter policy, economic-based policing, and business practices to shut down crime at its source. The Center on Shadow Economics (CSE) disrupts the criminal business models fueling the shadow economy — a competing economic engine powered entirely by crime. Through research, policy, and partnerships, we help leaders dismantle illicit markets, strengthen communities, and put crime out of business.

10/24/2025

*Denver, CO* -- A great week at the IACP with over 15,000 global police executives and staff attending five days of information and networking. Five of CSE's senior fellows were there to share their expertise across a wide range of committees, topics and trainings. David Lake | Daniel Garcia | Mike Garvey, Ph.D. | Ray Guidetti | Kev Metcalfe

09/16/2025

*Dallas, TX* | BEYOND REIMAGINE POLICING--THE TIME HAS COME TO REIMAGINE CRIME.

What drives it.
Who profits from it.
How it hides in plain sight.

That’s the conversation we had with police chiefs, prosecutors, and criminal justice leaders from across North Texas during a two-day executive session focused prioritizing prevention and disrupting crime at its source.

Deep gratitude to the speakers, sponsors, and strategic partners whose leadership made this event possible — David Lake Chief Daniel V. Garcia, Dallas D.A. John Creuzot Vince Vittatoe, Kimberly Lake, Michael Mirand, LPC & Shady Elsabie - Loomis, Bianca Davis -New Friends New Life, Steven Toth & Sara Stokes - RollKall Off-Duty, Mark Holder & Vicki Mayo The TouchPoint Solution

05/12/2025

*Lansing, Michigan* -- America’s gang problem has evolved—and so has the threat.*
At the 2025 Midwest Gang Investigators Association (MGIA) National Conference, CSE’s David Lake led an extended session on how gangs are embedding themselves in today’s shadow economy—not just for concealment, but because it offers massive criminal profits without the high risks and severe penalties tied to drug trafficking.

The session advanced the conversation beyond outdated narratives of turf wars, examining outlaw gang roles in global counterfeiting, organized retail crime, human trafficking and the ripple effects on local economies and public safety. These aren’t just street-level issues anymore—they’re systemic, networked, and socio-economically devastating.

Grateful for everything we learned from fellow speakers throughout the week—powerful, at times mind-blowing reminders of the deep and accelerating cultural destruction gangs are driving across our youth, families, and the broader safety of our communities.

A huge thanks to the outstanding leadership and seamless coordination from of Megan Johnston with the help of Paul Jensen and Brian Jorgenson— delivered!

04/25/2025

*Dar es Salaam, Tanzania* — CSE partnered with the African Transformational Initiative (ATI) and the Lusaka Agreement Task Force (LATF) to train investigators and prosecutors in dismantling wildlife and timber trafficking — a multibillion-dollar criminal enterprise that funds transnational syndicates and drains Africa’s future.

These aren’t solely environmental crimes — they’re acts of economic warfare. CSE sessions with David Lake exposed how illicit markets are destabilizing East African nations, how the shadow economy is draining long-term economic potential across the continent, and — most importantly — delivered advanced investigative and prosecutorial strategies to fundamentally disrupt these networks.

Special thanks to Adv. Wisdom Robert Mande Executive Director of ATI, for her guiding leadership — and to Rod Khattabi, Lead Instructor, for setting the standard with a top-notch, industry-shifting training experience.

10/25/2024

*Chicago, IL* -- David Lake, CEO of CSE, engaged with retailers, manufacturers, and promotions specialists at the ACP annual summit, to discuss essential strategies for safeguarding their sales and marketing programs from criminal exploitation. Great conversations on staying ahead of emerging threats and protecting business integrity in today’s dynamic environment.

10/24/2024

*Boston, MA* -- Another incredible experience at the annual International Chiefs of Police Conference! Honored to serve on the Police Investigative Operations Committee, where CSE shares insights, research, and emerging crime trends within the Shadow Economy. Grateful for the opportunity to engage with leaders driving innovative solutions in policing and public safety. David Lake

10/11/2024

*Miami-Dade County, FL* -- CSE was honored to feature Loomis Armored Car Services as a distinguished guest during our two-day training program at the Miami Dade College-School of Justice. Loomis Regional Investigators, Mike Mirand and Eric Fernandez, provided invaluable insights to local police chiefs and investigators, offering a rare look into the daily logistics of bulk cash and precious metal movements within communities. They shared real-world examples of the risks their employees and the public face, while emphasizing the exceptional preventive measures they take to mitigate these threats. Their dedication to safety and their engaging presentation were key to making the event a resounding success, and we deeply commend their professionalism. David Lake

10/10/2024

Miami-Dade County, FL -- CSE was privileged to host Lifescan's Director of Brand Protection, DeeJay Smith, during our two-day training program at the Miami Dade College, School of Justice. DeeJay provided police chiefs and investigators with an in-depth exploration of what lurks behind many of the street-side signage offering to buy diabetic test strips. Addressing the critical health and safety issues associated with this underground trade, while showcasing Lifescan's commitment to safeguarding patients from exploitation. Deejay's knowledge and engaging delivery contributed immensely to the success of the event, and we greatly appreciate his expertise and professionalism. David Lake

10/08/2024

*Miami-Dade County, FL* -- As the Miami-Dade area enjoys a surge in economic prosperity, police leaders around the county recognize the hidden risks often associated with population growth. Members of the Miami-Dade County Association of Chiefs of Police attended a full-day, CSE seminar on the shadow economy and the criminal undercurrents amplified by rapid expansion. Hosted by the Miami Dade College School of Justice, attendees explored cutting-edge crime reduction models designed to identify and disrupt emerging threats swiftly and effectively, all while minimizing resource strain. Special thanks to Chief Wayne Jones and Asst. Chief Daniel Morgalo.

06/11/2024

Charlotte, NC, -- As one of the most heinous crimes within the shadow economy, human trafficking buys and sells lives as commodities. CSE is honored to have David Lake join the team of experts dedicated to shedding light on the convergence of crimes that enable human exploitation. Together, we strive to bring awareness, provide solutions, and fight for the dignity and freedom of all individuals. -it

05/09/2024

*Sparking New Ideas in Law Enforcement Intelligence*
Honored to be a guest speaker to the bright minds in Dr. Patrick Tortorici’s class on advanced law enforcement intelligence at the University of Arizona. We delved into innovative approaches to police intelligence, challenging traditional data analysis and encouraging students to ask critical new questions. By exploring fresh perspectives, we can uncover hidden criminal networks and empower future law enforcement leaders to create safer communities. Connect with David Lake to discuss or share your thoughts in the comments below!

05/08/2024

Dallas, TX -- Spent last week with the great team of the IACP Police Investigative Operations Committee, deep diving into the challenges of digital evidence and the complexities of public/private partnerships.

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