A Chattanooga nonprofit with a global network is recognizing Champions Fighting Human Crime.
The Knoble is a Chattanooga based non-profit that is an international network of financial service professionals, law enforcement, regulators, and nonprofit organizations.
Dave Worland, the executive director of The Knoble, said, “Our global network of financial services professionals works every day to raise awareness about the reality of human crime and emphasize the critical role the financial services industry plays in disrupting exploitation. By learning to leverage financial clues, individuals across the industry can contribute to fighting human crime, regardless of their position within the broader financial ecosystem.”
According to Mr. Worland, “Chattanooga is home to this Network that leads and innovates more effective ways to reduce the number of victims of human crime. By leveraging financial clues, data, and cross-industry collaboration, The Knoble works to protect vulnerable populations from human trafficking, elder financial exploitation, financial scams, and child sexual exploitation.”
The Knoble Network members have the opportunity to collaborate across disciplines, fostering innovation in solutions and processes that can be shared widely for the benefit of all in the fight against Human Crime.
Introducing the 2024 Knoble Award Recipients
Amanda Maxfield, The Director of Membership Engagement for the Knoble, noted, “Each award recipient has made a significant impact in their respective areas, showcasing innovative approaches and inspiring change. Their stories of dedication and accomplishment are not only commendable but essential in driving forward the fight against human crime.”
Ian Mitchell, the Founder and Board Chairman of the Knoble, in announcing these awards said, “ I am excited about the growing influence of the Knoble Network in Changning the landscape of financial services focus’ on reducing the number of victims caught in these financial crimes. There are real people being affected by each of these crimes and there are real people fighting every day to help them. We are honored to be able to recognize them.”
Freddy Massimi: Recipient of The Knoble Award for Excellence in Human Trafficking Prevention
Freddy’s dedication to the anti-human trafficking community, combined with his expertise in financial crime prevention, has made him an invaluable volunteer. Whether it’s working on anti-human trafficking projects, developing strategies to prevent scams, or contributing to roundtable discussions, Freddy’s volunteer work with The Knoble and other organizations is helping to create a world where exploitation and trafficking have no place. His tireless advocacy and hands-on involvement reflect a commitment to making a tangible difference, one that protects vulnerable populations and upholds the principles of justice and human dignity.
Jen Lamont: Recipient of The Knoble Award for Excellence in Elder Financial Exploitation Prevention
Jen Lamont has been honored with The Knoble Award of Excellence in Prevention of Elder Financial Exploitation for her outstanding contributions to protecting vulnerable older adults from financial abuse. Jen moderated The Knoble’s very first Third Thursday Talk, which featured fruitful conversations, collaborative development of a resource list, and the creation of a presentation aimed at raising community awareness. Her leadership has driven key initiatives that have significantly raised awareness and provided critical resources for combating elder financial exploitation. Jen’s steadfast efforts make her a worthy recipient of this prestigious award.
Ken Palla: Recipient of The Knoble Award for Excellence in Financial Scam Prevention
Ken Palla’s commitment to scam prevention extends well beyond his retirement as Director of Online Security at one of the largest banking institutions with ties to both the U.S. and international markets. Through his writing, including his blog “Faster Payments: Is Adding Sand in the Gears Necessary?”, he urges banks and credit unions to implement thoughtful scam controls like manual activation options for faster payments, behavioral biometrics to detect signs of coercion, and effective money mule management. With a passion for protecting consumers, Ken tenaciously advocates for the industry to take a proactive role in combating scams, furthering the Knoble’s mission to disrupt human crime.
Karen Arrabal Recipient of The Knoble Award for Excellence in Online Child Sexual Exploitation Prevention
The Knoble is honored to recognize Karen Arrabal, Director of Financial Crimes Investigations, as the winner of our first annual Award for Excellence in Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Prevention. Karen has been a leading voice in our alliance of financial professionals. Last year, Karen and her bank participated in Project Umbra, proving that transactional patterns can identify potential CSE behavior. This year, she is leading Phase 2 of Project Umbra to expand the initiative to more partners, including law enforcement. Karen’s leadership, knowledge, and passion make her a true exemplar in this fight.
Natalie Loebner: Recipient of The Knoble Award for Excellence in Cross-Sector Collaboration
Natalie Loebner, Owner/President of Loebner Consulting, LLC, has been an outstanding co-facilitator of our SAR Attachment Project. Her firsthand knowledge of law enforcement’s use of data has been invaluable in advocating for meaningful improvements. Over the past few months, she has collaborated with law enforcement and financial institutions to recommend enhancements in data-sharing processes, making them more adaptable. With her unique background in law and data analytics, along with her experience as a former Department of Justice litigator, Natalie’s expertise, positive attitude, and work ethic have been instrumental in advancing the project’s goals.
Mr. Maxfield noted,” We are so proud of our network and the work they are doing to stop trafficking and exploitation of people. Anyone interested in learning more about the Knoble or how to get involved or support the fight against Human Crime, visit our website, www.theknoble.com, and click, Join the Fight.”