Prosecuting Domestic Terrorists: Some Recommendations (From The Future of Terrorism: Violence in the New Millennium, 157-162, 1998, Harvey W. Kushner, ed., -- see NCJ-191292)

• NCJ Number: 191299
• Author(s): Tomas C. Mijares; Wayman C. Mullins
• Date Published: 1998
• Length: 6 pages
• Sale Source: Sage Publications, Inc
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter examines the efficacy of law enforcement efforts directed toward extremist individuals and groups, and includes recommendations about managing and prosecuting the extremist Right.

Abstract

The tragedy of Ruby Ridge, where two family members of a separatist were killed, is just one of several major government efforts against extremists that turned into a public relations nightmare while gaining sympathy and support for the targeted groups. Robert Jay Mathews, leader of an underground terrorist group sworn to bring victory to the Aryan race by destroying the Federal Government, was killed in a firestorm created when the flares fired by Federal agents ignited the ammunition stored in the house. Authorities hoped that Mathews’ death would cripple the Order and severely curtail the activities of the Aryan Nations; neither occurred. Instead, Mathews earned the rank of martyr, and the Aryan Nations became a magnet for the violent fringe of the extreme Right. James Ellison agreed to testify against others in the violent, extreme Right movement. Fourteen members were charged with sedition. Despite Ellison’s testimony, the jury acquitted the men of all charges. The “Fort Smith verdict” says that no matter how offensive someone’s thoughts, they are still only thoughts, or “extremism is not terrorism.” This verdict severely hampered the Government’s proactive policy of arresting members of extremist groups that articulate unpopular, albeit violent, beliefs. It served to unify the leadership of the extreme Right into an even tighter cohesive unit. Recommendations are to avoid elevating common criminals to an almost romantic status within the media and society as well. Authorities should concentrate on using already existing laws to prosecute domestic terrorists for traditional criminal activities. Private citizens should be encouraged to initiate civil action against domestic terrorists. Capturing the assets of extremist organizations may prove beneficial in deterring and countering terrorism. Authorities from different legal jurisdictions must agree to work together against domestic terrorist activity.