Crime Stoppers International World Summit

Cooperation Against Converging Crime

Panama City 14-16 October 2026
Full Programme

Summit Agenda

Panama City, 14 - 16 October 2026. Parallel sessions run in two streams: Bridging the Gap (Ballroom AB) and Following the Thread (Viveros). Programme subject to change.

Wednesday 14 October

Registration opens at 15:00 in the Foyer (Secretariat Office, Sebago). Welcome Reception 18:00 to 21:00, with addresses from Sharon Hanlon AM, President CSI, Alex McDonald, President CBLA, and H.E. Carlos Guevara Mann, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Panama.

Thursday 15 October
08:00
Registration and arrival coffee
08:50
Welcome from the Master of Ceremonies
Antonina Cuesta, Vice President CBLA and Regional Board Member, Crime Stoppers International
09:00
Official Summit Opening
H.E. Frank Alexis Abrego, Minister of Security, Republic of Panama, with Sharon Hanlon AM, President, Crime Stoppers International, Alex McDonald, President, CBLA, and Alejo Campos, CEO, CBLA
09:40
Morning coffee
10:05
The Future. Fifty Years of Fragments: What the Public SeesPlenary
Hayley van Loon, CEO, Crime Stoppers International
10:35
Disrupting the Industrialisation of CybercrimeKeynote
Derek Manky, Chief Security Strategist and Global VP of Threat Intelligence, Fortinet
11:10
Illicit Financial Flows: One Rail, Every CrimePanel
Moderated by Sean Doyle. With Antonio Crespo, Homeland Security Investigations; TC Mosikili, South African Police Service; Craig Jones, Cypol; Rick Penney, JTI
11:50
No Safe Harbour: Cyber Threat Actors in the Age of FusionPanel
Moderated by Luke Bencie. With Derek Manky, Sean Lyons, Kim Kelley, Matt Warren and Paulo Deus, Roblox
12:30
Lunch
13:30
Ballroom AB · Bridging the Gap
Crime Converged. Did We?
Paulo R.A. Deus, Law Enforcement Liaison Manager, Latin America, Roblox
Viveros · Following the Thread
The Panama Strategy in the Fight Against Criminal Convergence
Jaime Fernández Rodríguez, Director of Police, Panama
14:00
Ballroom AB · Bridging the Gap
Following the Money to Combat Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling
Juana Garcia, UNODC
Viveros · Following the Thread
CARVER Leadership: Following the Thread to Better Decisions
Luke Bencie, Carver Institute
14:35
Ballroom AB · Bridging the Gap
The Fundamental Role of the Trade Transparency Unit in the Fight Against Organised Crime, Smuggling and the Financing of Terrorism
Antonio Crespo, Homeland Security Investigations, and Christian Tello, Panama National Customs Authority
Viveros · Following the Thread
Sport, Betting and Organised Crime: The Global Picture
Juan Martín Ortiz, UNODC Panama
15:05
Afternoon coffee. Sessions continue in Ballroom AB
15:30
Ministerial Address
H.E. Morena Valdez, Minister of Tourism, El Salvador
15:45
Hybrid Threats and Human Trafficking: A Baltic Case Study
Professor Matthew Warren, RMIT University
16:15
Trade Based Money Laundering Challenges: From the Regulatory Bodies to the Private SectorPanel
Moderated by Juan Carlos Buitrago. With Isabel Vechio, Leroy Sheffer, Gianela Rivas and Giomar Gonzalez (tbc)
19:00
Summit Gala Dinner and CSI Awards
Pre-dinner drinks in the Foyer from 19:00, dinner from 19:30 to 22:30. MC Mick Duthie, Vice President, Crime Stoppers International
Friday 16 October
08:00
Registration and arrival coffee
08:45
Crime Stoppers Programs Workshop: 50 Years, What's NextWorkshop
Primarily for Crime Stoppers program delegates and open to all attendees
09:45
MC outline and review
Elise Rasmussen, Master of Ceremonies
09:50
Unravelling the Network: Operationalising Global Cooperation Against Converging CrimePlenary
Craig Jones, Cypol
10:25
Wildlife Trafficking: Convergence with Other Forms of Environmental and Cyber CrimePlenary
Patricia Anne Raxter, PhD, United for Wildlife
11:00
Morning coffee
11:30
Ballroom AB · Bridging the Gap
From Intelligence to Impact: Building Public, Private and Police Partnerships Against Illicit Trade
Rick Penney, JTI
Viveros · Following the Thread
From Intelligence to Impact: Crime Stoppers' Role in Combatting Organised Retail Crime
Sean Sportun, Sobeys
12:00
Ballroom AB · Bridging the Gap
Alan Pamplin
Head of Security Department, SSA Marine MIT
Viveros · Following the Thread
Sean Lyons
Netsafe New Zealand
12:30
Lunch. Afternoon sessions in Ballroom AB
13:30
Public Private Cooperation with Crime Stoppers in Guatemala
David Custodio Boteo, General Director of Police, Guatemala
14:00
See Past the Script: Understanding the Systems Behind Exploitation
Kim Kelley, Director, Digital Defenders United
14:30
Connecting Intelligence, Protecting Sport: The Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network (GAIIN)
Natalia Chaparro, World Anti-Doping Agency
15:00
Afternoon coffee
15:30
The Compact: What Business, Government and Community Each OwePanel
Moderated by Sean Doyle. With Gabriel Juarez, UNODC; Derek Manky, Fortinet; Hayley van Loon, Crime Stoppers International; Patricia Raxter, United for Wildlife; Antonio Crespo, Homeland Security Investigations
16:15
Summit Wrap Up and the Panama Declaration
Hayley van Loon, CEO, Crime Stoppers International
16:45
Summit Farewell
Sharon Hanlon AM, President, Crime Stoppers International
19:30
Summit Final Event at Calle de Dragones
Hosted by CBLA, with transport arranged by CBLA. Separate registration required (USD 120)

To be delivered in partnership with our Regional member, the Caribbean Bermuda and Latin America (CBLA) Foundation, our 2026 Summit will be held at the iconic JW Marriott Panama, overlooking the Bay of Panama and Pacific Ocean.

Summit Goals

01

The Panama Declaration

A signed closing statement where each participant contributes the fragment they hold. Founding-signatory status is permanent and referenceable.

02

The Fusion Commitment

Named agencies and companies committing to a shared-intelligence pilot within the next twelve months.

03

The Public-Private Commitment

A clear, lawful model for private-sector partners to share intelligence, not just funding.

The theme of this milestone event is, Crime Convergence, reflecting the evolving nature of transnational criminal networks, where trafficking, financial crime, cybercrime, organized crime, corruption and exploitation increasingly overlap.

Against this backdrop and recognizing an incredible 50 years of Crime Stoppers providing trusted platforms for citizens to safely share information to assist authorities in the pursuit of justice, this World Summit will highlight the importance of public-private engagement, intelligence sharing, collaborative partnerships, and cross-border cooperation in preventing and disrupting these interconnected threats.

We invite global leaders from government, law enforcement, international organizations, civil society, academia, the private sector and Crime Stoppers programs to join us in advancing practical cooperation, intelligence sharing, and collaborative strategies to strengthen public safety worldwide.

High-Level Agenda

Three days in Panama City

Wednesday 14 October - production and stage set-up

Wednesday 14 October

Arrivals and Registration Desk open (from 1600).

The Summit Welcome Reception (1800-2100) will provide delegates and guests the chance to connect or re-connect and build rapport, setting the stage for two productive days identifying areas of current fragmentation and emerging risks, ahead of developing a transformative, forward-looking shared vision of action.

Thursday 15 October - keynote and session delivery

Thursday 15 October

Day One will begin to explore closing the seams in our systems, structures and partnerships that criminal networks exploit; and how we can build the intelligence capability to map, anticipate and dismantle them.

A Gala Summit and Awards Dinner will provide time to debrief, foster deeper engagement, celebrate 50 Years of Crime Stoppers, and recognize some of the most outstanding contributions made to community safety over the last 12 months.

Friday 16 October - delegates in session

Friday 16 October

Day Two will examine the critical pressure points within criminal networks and how coordinated action can unravel them; how we can get ahead of the curve by moving toward predictive, intelligence-led approaches; and how we can shape public-private partnerships, cross-border collaboration, and spur enhanced community intelligence to advance global security.

A Farewell Panama event will provide time to strengthen networking, allow for a wind-down, and a celebration of new connections. This is an optional extra and ticketed separately.

Essential Information

What you need to know

Who should attend

Global leaders, senior executives, specialists, policy makers, professionals and experts from:

  • Government agencies & departments
  • Law enforcement & policing
  • Major corporates & international businesses
  • Civil society & NFPs
  • Research, academia & education
  • Community partners; and
  • Crime Stoppers programs

Why attend

The Crime Stoppers International 2026 World Summit is bringing the global community together at a critical moment.

Under the theme, Crime Convergence – Cooperation Against Converging Crime, the Summit will confront the growing overlap of transnational threats including trafficking, financial crime, cybercrime, organized crime, corruption, and exploitation.

From the opening Welcome Reception through two productive days of shared insights and collaboration, delegates will identify areas of fragmentation, explore emerging risks, and contribute to a forward-looking shared vision of action to prevent and disrupt interconnected crime.

This is your opportunity to be part of practical, global drive to harness the power of enhanced information and intelligence sharing, strengthened public-private partnerships, and increased cross-border cooperation.

Ticketing

  • Earlybird Registration* : closed
  • Standard Registration* : available now to 9 October
  • Single Day Registrations : available now to 9 October
  • Social Event ticketing for guests : available now

*A full Registration (Earlybird and Standard) gives you access to all Summit sessions, including meals and breaks, the Welcome Reception and the Gala Summit & Awards Dinner.

Note: the Farewell Panama event is ticketed separately, and we hope you’ll join us!

Accommodation

Scroll down to access information on how to book your room at the Summit venue - the JW Marriott, Panama.

CSI Global Annual Awards

  • Entries open : 1 June
  • Entries close : 31 July

This year’s prestigious Crime Stoppers International Global Annual Award winners will be posted the week commencing 12 October.

Winners of select categories, along with recipients of the President’s Award, will be announced at the Summit Gala Dinner.

Summit Speakers

Who you will hear from

Derek Manky

Derek Manky

Chief Security Strategist & Global VP Threat Intelligence - Fortinet

Keynote Speaker Learn more
Robert Pittenger

Robert Pittenger

Former Congressman - US Parliamentary Security-Intelligence Forum

Special Remarks
Morena Valdez

Mrs. Morena Valdez

Minister of Tourism - El Salvador

Learn more
Lt General Tebello Mosikili

Lt General Tebello Mosikili

Deputy Commissioner of Police - South African Police Service

Learn more
Carlos Guevara Mann

Carlos Guevara Mann

Deputy Minister for Multilateral Affairs and Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Relations of the Republic of Panama

Frank Alexis Abrego

Frank Alexis Abrego

Ministro de Seguridad Pública

Hayley van Loon

Hayley van Loon

Chief Executive Officer - Crime Stoppers International

Learn more
Alejo Campos

Alejo Campos

Director, CSI Board; Regional Director & CEO - Crime Stoppers Caribbean, Bermuda & Latin America

Learn more
Luke Bencie

Luke Bencie

Founder of the CARVER Training Institute | Former US Intelligence Officer

Learn more
Natalia Chaparro

Natalia Chaparro

Investigator - Intelligence & Investigations Department at the World Anti-Doping Agency

Learn more
Antonio L. Crespo, CAMS

Antonio L. Crespo, CAMS

Section Chief, Trade Transparency Unit - Homeland Security Investigations

Learn more
David Custodio Boteo

David Custodio Boteo

General Director of the National Police in Guatemala

Paulo R. A. Deus

Paulo R. A. Deus

Law Enforcement Liaison Manager, Latin America - Roblox

Learn more
Sean Doyle

Seán Doyle

Director, Anti-Cybercrime - Crime Stoppers International

Learn more
Mick Duthie

Mick Duthie

Director of Operations - Crimestoppers UK

Learn more
Jaime Fernández

Jaime Fernández

Director of the National Police of Panama

Juana Marcela Garcia Galindo

Juana Marcela Garcia Galindo

Coordinadora de Proyectos - Human Trafficking and Smuggling of Migrants Section - United Nations

Sharon Hanlon AM

Sharon Hanlon AM

President - Crime Stoppers International

Learn more
Craig Jones

Craig Jones

Director CyPol, Immediate Past Director Cybercrime at INTERPOL

Learn more
Kim Kelley

Kim Kelley

CMO & Director of Anti-Trafficking - RanchTX.org

Learn more
Sean Lyons

Sean Lyons

Chief Online Safety Officer - Netsafe New Zealand

Learn more
Alex Macdonald

Alex Macdonald

Board Executive, Immediate Past President, Crime Stoppers International

Glenn Maiden

Glenn Maiden

Chief Security Officer & Head of Threat Intelligence - Fortinet

Learn more
Juan Martín Ortiz

Juan Martín Ortiz

Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Officer - Corruption and Financial Crime Hub for Latin America and the Caribbean - UNODC

Learn more
Alan David Pamplin

Alan David Pamplin

Head - Security, SSA Marine MIT, Colon, Republic of Panama

Rick Penney

Rick Penney

Manager, Anti Illicit Trade Operations, Americas - JTI

Learn more
Patricia Raxter, PhD

Patricia Raxter, PhD

Director of Intelligence and Analysis, Illegal Wildlife Trade - United for Wildlife

Learn more
Sean Sportun

Sean Sportun

National Director, Loss Prevention & Corporate Security - Sobeys

Learn more
Christian Tello

Christian Tello

Deputy Chief & Analyst, Commercial Transparency Unit - National Customs Authority, Panama

Axel van Pel (MA)

Axel van Pel (MA)

Directeur, Meld Misdaad Anoniem - Netherlands

Learn more
Professor Matthew (Matt) Warren

Professor Matthew (Matt) Warren

Director of the Centre for Cyber Security Research and Innovation (CCSRI) - RMIT

Learn more
Jarrad Warwick

Jarrad Warwick

Chief of Staff and Head of Strategic Technology & Capability - Crime Stoppers International

Learn more
Gillian Wilson APM

Gillian Wilson APM

Head of Sponsorship & Fundraising - Crime Stoppers International

Learn more

New speakers announced soon

We’re regularly adding to our speaker line-up, so be sure to check back in. Announcements go out on our socials first.

Follow for announcements
Summit venue

JW Marriott Panama

Panama has been chosen to host this important event in recognition of its status as a major international trade, logistics and financial hub, home to the critical international shipping artery – the Panama Canal, and the Central American headquarters for many leading, global corporations and agencies.

The five-star JW Marriott Panama is a spectacular 70 floors waterfront hotel and condominium tower in the area of Punta Pacifica, Panama City. It is the tallest building in Central America, with sweeping views over the Bay of Panama, and its striking design resembles a sail facing out to the Pacific Ocean. The hotel’s 12th Floor is our Summit venue for all plenary and breakout sessions, lunches, Welcome Reception, Gala Summit and Awards Dinner, and Summit exhibitors.

Room booking information and rates

Special room rates, inclusive of a daily buffet breakfast and high-speed WiFi, have been negotiated – US $190.00/per night (Deluxe Room, single occupancy) and US $210.00/per night (Deluxe Room, double occupancy) plus bellboy, housekeeping and 10% local tax charges. For those arriving early or staying on, this room rate is available two (2) days pre- and post-Summit, subject to hotel availability.

To enjoy the convenience of staying on-site and to secure the heavily discounted CSI 2026 World Summit room rate, use this direct link.

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities

Connect, collaborate, communicate

CONNECT

with professionals including industry leaders and global experts.

COLLABORATE

with delegates to develop business opportunities.

COMMUNICATE

through one-on-one conversations or set a meeting at the Summit.

To explore sponsorship, marketing and exhibition opportunities for your business at this event, including the chance to sponsor this year’s Crime Stoppers International Global Annual Awards, please contact us at connect@crimestoppersinternational.org. Our team will be happy to discuss options tailored to your organisation.

Detail

FAQs

Where can I find more information about the Summit agenda?

Information will be regularly updated here on our website and announced on our socials as we build out the Summit agenda and confirm keynote speakers, session presenters and panel members.

Where do I book accommodation?

A very attractive room rate (Deluxe Room single or double occupancy, inclusive of buffet breakfast at the Masi Restaurant, WiFi, and access to the on-property gym and pool) has been negotiated at the Summit venue – the iconic JW Marriott Panama – for the nights of 14-16 October 2026.

Delegates arriving early or wanting to stay a little longer will be pleased to know this rate also applies for the two (2) nights pre- and post-Summit, subject to hotel availability.

To enjoy the convenience of staying on-site and to secure the heavily discounted Summit room rate, use this direct link: Book My Room

Do I need a visa for Panama?

Citizens from most countries, including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, the EU, Japan and Singapore can enter Panama visa-free but must have a passport that meets the validity requirements for Panama, proof of economic solvency (cash or credit card statement indicating at least US $500), a return/onward ticket (note: this is a strict requirement), and your vaccination record (recommended).

If you are not from a visa-exempt country (see the full list here), you may need a ‘stamped’ or ‘authorized’ visa from a Panamanian Consulate.

Check official Panama immigration updates before you travel as policies can change.

Should you need one, the Summit Organizing Team can provide an Invitation Letter for visa purposes. Please email your request to connect@crimestoppersinternational.org

What is the working language of the event?

The Summit will be conducted in English.

What is the dress code for the Summit and its social events?

  • Welcome Reception – smart casual
  • Summit Opening Ceremony and all sessions – business casual
  • Gala Dinner – cocktail
  • Farewell Panama event – smart casual

Is there a Code of Conduct for the event?

Absolutely! We expect all delegates and accompanying persons, exhibitors and sponsors, venue and event staff to abide by our Code of Conduct at all Summit sessions and social events, including at related venues, to ensure everyone enjoys a harassment-free experience.

What if I require support?

Please reach out to the Summit Organizing Team at connect@crimestoppersinternational.org to let us know if there are specific accommodations you need to help you fully participate.

Can delegates' spouses/partners participate?

Spouses or partners of delegates are very welcome to attend the Welcome Reception, Gala Summit & Global Awards Dinner and the Farewell Panama event. Each of these social occasions is ticketed separately and tickets can be purchased here.

Alternatively, full Registration entitles the holder to all Summit sessions and the on-site social events - Reception and Dinner.

Where can I find more information about ticketing, payment options and T&Cs?

The Summit 2026 Terms & Conditions contain more detail about ticketing, payment options, cancellations etc. If, after reading the T&Cs, you still have a question, please reach out to the Summit Organizing Team at connect@crimestoppersinternational.org

I’m having trouble buying multiple Registrations/Tickets

Credit card/debit card – the Summit Registration payment platform, operated by Zeffy, accepts payment by major credit cards (eg Visa, MasterCard, Amex) as well as CVV debit cards for payments up to US $4,999.

ACH (Automated Clearing House) – for payments between US $5,000 and US $9,999 you have the option of ACH (electronic funds transfer bank-to-bank) but you must have a US bank account.

If you choose the ACH payment method, you won't immediately see a field to enter your information as you work through the registration payment process. You will need to click on "proceed to payment" at the bottom of the relevant page, and then you will be asked to enter your banking information.

ACH payments will not be accepted after Tuesday 29 September 2026.

Invoice – if your organization requires a formal invoice to enable a Wire Transfer (EFT) for Registration payment, please submit your request in writing to the CSI Summit Organizing Team at connect@crimestoppersinternational.org

  • A US $65 administrative fee applies per Invoice produced.
  • Invoices will stipulate payment in USD with payment due within 14 days of the date of issue.
  • CSI reserves the right to cancel Registrations if payment is not received by the due date.
  • Payment must be made in full to receive access to the Summit.
  • Invoicing to enable a Wire Transfer (EFT) payment is subject to Registration availability and will not be available after close of business (5pm Panama time) on Tuesday 22 September 2026, to ensure full payment is received and cleared prior to the event.
  • CSI reserves the right to not issue an Invoice.

What is the weather like in Panama in October?

Daytime temperatures remain warm, usually hovering between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C). Humidity is high, being the rainy season, so it’s not uncommon to experience sunny mornings with fast-moving, heavy showers in the afternoon. Pack a light rain jacket if you plan to stay on and do some sightseeing.

What can I expect at the JW Marriott Panama?

The iconic 70-story JW Marriott hotel is a 5-star oceanfront property with stunning bay views situated in Punta Pacifica, renowned for its excellent service, quality dining/catering, diverse amenities, and close proximity to Punta Pacifica’s shopping and upscale neighborhoods.

The hotel boasts luxurious rooms; 4 restaurants and bars; a wellness level with gym, cardio equipment, outdoor pools and spa; 24-hour room service; a business center; shops within the building; and the 13th-floor pool area is a major highlight, featuring multiple pools, including an infinity pool with ocean views, a pool bar, and cabanas.

Check-in is 3:00pm; Check-out is 12 noon

Typical travel time from Tocumen International Airport is 20-30 minutes by car. Uber is strongly recommended as being safer and easier than using a taxi.

Safety and security

Here are a few basic tips to ensure your attendance at the Summit and your visit to Panama City is a pleasant one.

DO

  • Use your hotel room safe, and carry only what you need.
  • Keep phones, bags, and valuables close – petty theft is the main issue in Panama.
  • Stick to well-known areas like Casco Viejo, Cinta Costera, Punta Pacifica, and Amador Causeway.
  • Use Uber rather than street taxis, especially at night, and travel in a group after dark where practical.
  • Use ATMs (cash machines) inside malls or banks.
  • Report lost property early.
  • For emergencies: 911 (general) or 104 (police).

DON’T

  • Walk alone through poorly lit areas.
  • Leave devices, badges or confidential papers unattended.

Who do I contact for more information?

Please get in touch with our Summit Organizing Team by emailing: connect@crimestoppersinternational.org