About

SPR Group LLC was formed in 2018 by Shawn Rafferty. The strategic vision of SPR Group LLC is centered around threat management, preparedness, training, damage mitigation, and effective response. Shawn feels that there is a dangerous disconnect between the police, organizations, and individuals on how they can work together to help prevent, mitigate damage, and respond during an active shooter event or other life threatening situations. Even more troubling and what ultimately helped Shawn determine the direction of SPR Group LLC, was the lack of preparation and training for individuals and in organizations. It is unfortunate that even after so many active shooter events people and organizations are still not prepared, and many do not know what to do. Shawn's main objective is to help save lives by preparing organizations and individuals on how to prevent, prepare, and respond during an active shooter event.

SPR Group LLC is the culmination of everything Shawn learned and experienced in working over 25 years in various leadership and security roles. The work Shawn performed with the United States Military, local and federal law enforcement, and security firms opened his eyes in ways he never would have imagined. Far too often, people are left to just react and hope the natural fight or flight response helps them figure out what to do when the worst happens. Even with that response, it’s not enough. When lives are on the line, the first line of defense is developing a strategy. Throughout Shawn’s years of training and working as a security specialist for various organizations, strategy is Shawn’s first weapon of choice. When a strategy is in place, people can be trained on what to do when the time comes. And then, if the worst happens, training kicks in and that strategy helps reduce injuries and casualties.

The event that laid the groundwork and future formation of SPR Group LLC occurred in 2007. Shawn just returned back the U.S. from working in Iraq and was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first child. While Shawn was driving, he heard on the radio about the news of the Virginia Tech mass shooting that took the lives of over 32 people. Upon hearing the news Shawn was filled with anger and sadness. At that moment, Shawn thought out loud, “There must be a way to help people survive these horrible incidents.” From that point on, Shawn started to brainstorm ways to help better educate people on what they can do and even how to help police respond in a more direct, informed manner. Over a decade later, Shawn finally decided to put his thoughts and passion into action to help save lives.

Shawn has seen first hand the results of poor preparation, the lack of realistic training, and not having effective strategies. While law enforcement may have training regarding active shooter incidents, most organizations and individuals don’t. This lack of preparation led Shawn to make active shooter preparation and response the main mission and strategic vision of SPR Group LLC.

A brief overview of Shawn’s work experience and qualifications: