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Domestic Extremism: Still a Potent Threat

NCJ Number
202122
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 70 Issue: 8 Dated: August 2003 Pages: 32-35
Author(s)
Mark Pitcavage
Editor(s)
Charles E. Higginbotham
Date Published
August 2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article presents an overview of recent extremist activity in the United States and the need for law enforcement to protect citizens from those from within, domestic extremists.
Abstract
With the threat of domestic terrorism not subsiding since the attack on September 11, 2001, it has become more important for State and local law enforcement agencies in the United States to ensure that members of extreme groups and movements do not get away with committing criminal acts. Since the early 1990's, the extreme right-wing in the United States has underwent a considerable resurgence. Two new movements were formed and are discussed in this article: (1) the militia movement and (2) white supremacists. The militia movement grew quickly in the mid-1990's, but steadily declined later in the decade with militia-related arrests continuing to occur. However, the white supremacists have not suffered significant declines and criminal activity has remained high. Even though the United States attempts to eradicate international terrorist groups, it cannot forget to protect its citizens from domestic extremists. This article provides an update on domestic extremism and a brief overview of extremist activities in the United States.