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Plan to address domestic terrrorism in your agency
The Prompt:
This module discussed domestic terrorism, which is arguably the most feared concerning form of terrorism in the United States. On March 27, 2019 bill S. 894 was introduced to analyze and monitor domestic terrorist activity and require the Federal Government to take steps to prevent domestic terrorism (see below link). According to the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), in 2021, 28 hate groups were documented operating in North Carolina (see link below). After the January 6th incident (riot, terrorist event, etc.) it became apparent that numerous groups (Oath Keepers, etc.) had infiltrated law enforcement and the military at the local and federal level. An investigation revealed, which was released in December 2022, that 309 Oath Keepers were employees of DHS.
https://www.congress.gov/116/bills/s894/BILLS-116s894is.xml
North Carolina (SPLC Hate Groups)
https://www.csis.org/analysis/military-police-and-rise-terrorism-united-states (Interesting article from the Center for Strategic and International Studies)
https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/National-Strategy-for-Countering-Domestic-Terrorism.pdf
https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/homeland-security (Homeland Security – State of North Carolina)
http://www.co.bertie.nc.us/departments/em/EOP/eplan/webver/terrorism.htm (Bertie County Emergency Management Division Terrorism Plan)
https://www.start.umd.edu/news/start-in-the-news/homeland-security-today-new-data-map-illustrates-connections-between-january
Assignment: Propose a plan to address domestic terrrorism in your agency (could be any agency, ie police department, EMS, 911 Center, Emergency Management Division)? What safeguards can you put into place? Do you change how background investigations are completed? As you write your plan remember individuals freedoms and constitutional rights.
Resources:
You can use your textbook, other books, magazines, newspapers, personal interviews and Internet materials for this assignment. Make sure all materials are cited to avoid plagiarism.
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The first step in addressing domestic terrorism is to define what it means for your agency. This may involve working with experts in the field to identify the types of threats that are most relevant to your agency’s mission and operations. Once you have a clear understanding of what domestic terrorism means for your agency, you can begin to develop a plan to address it.
One key safeguard that can be put into place is to ensure that all personnel are thoroughly vetted during the hiring process. This may involve conducting more extensive background investigations, including checks of social media and online activity, to identify any potential links to extremist groups or ideologies.
Another important safeguard is to establish protocols for reporting and responding to potential threats. This may involve training personnel to identify warning signs of radicalization or extremist activity, as well as establishing clear procedures for reporting and escalating concerns to appropriate authorities.
In addition to these safeguards, it is also important to consider how your agency can work with other organizations and agencies to address domestic terrorism. This may involve coordinating with local law enforcement, the FBI, or other federal agencies to share intelligence and collaborate on investigations. It may also involve working with community organizations and leaders to build trust and identify potential sources of radicalization.
Throughout this process, it is important to balance the need to protect public safety with respect for individual freedoms and constitutional rights. This may involve developing policies and procedures that are transparent and accountable, as well as ensuring that all actions are taken in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. By working collaboratively and thoughtfully, agencies can help to prevent and respond to domestic terrorism while upholding the values and principles of a free and democratic society.
