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Counterterrorism Efforts Against the Earth Liberation Front (ELF). Ethan Komarinski. Early Efforts. 1996 – 2001: criminal investigations local and state law enforcement 2001: domestic terrorist group Joint Terrorism Task Forces (JTTFs) FBI and ATF Agents state and local law enforcement.
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Counterterrorism Efforts Against the Earth Liberation Front (ELF) Ethan Komarinski
Early Efforts • 1996 – 2001: criminal investigations • local and state law enforcement • 2001: domestic terrorist group • Joint Terrorism Task Forces (JTTFs) • FBI and ATF Agents • state and local law enforcement
Operation Backfire • 2004: Consolidation of seven independent field office investigations • January 20, 2006: 11 members of an ELF cell, known as “The Family”, were charged with acts of domestic terrorism • To date, 17 individuals have been indicted, with 15 pleading guilty
Legislation • Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996 (AEDPA) • Terrorism enhancement • Enhanced penalties for use of explosives or arson crimes • 5 to 20 year imprisonment for property damage • 7 to 40 year imprisonment for personal injury • Death Penalty, or 20 years to life for cause of death
Conclusion • Since 2005, indictments against 30 individuals related to eco-terrorism • ELF still exists • Still a possibility for ELF members to resurface • Plan of deterrence for future attacks • No major incidents since 2009