NCJ Number
185329
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 69 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2000 Pages: 16-24
Date Published
September 2000
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article guides law enforcement officials in assessing the possible threat to public safety of a "new religious movement" (NRM), using a case study from Garland, Tex.
Abstract
Most religious scholars avoid using the word "cult" because it carries negative connotations. The term "new religious movement" is used to refer to any young religious movement still in its first generation. This term is used throughout this article. The majority of NRMs stay within the law, practicing their religions peacefully and without harm to their followers or the community. In assessing the threat of an NRM to public safety, law enforcement agencies must be objective and accurate in determining whether an NRM is breaking any laws. Some common allegations against NRMs that law enforcement agencies must evaluate are the "brainwashing" of adherents, such that their freedom of choice is violated, and the charge that NRM's involve con games by opportunistic leaders. The Garland Police Department (Texas) had to assess the threat of an NRM when the Chen Tao religious movement arrived in its community. To safeguard Garland residents as well as NRM group members themselves, the department obtained accurate information about the religious movement, established a meaningful dialog with the group's members, mobilized community resources, and planned for the worst. This article details how the department avoided any serious confrontations with the NRM and between the NRM and the community. 23 notes