The Definition Of Domestic Terrorism, Crime And Hate Crime

The definition of domestic terrorism can be described as actions by individuals or a group that can be dangerous and that are intended to harm, intimidate or influence either an individual or entire group most often within areas that covered by U.S. law and government. Certain groups, more than others, are targeted in order to make a statement and get attention through multiple injuries or deaths, extreme destruction, and/or the taking of influential persons. The FBI uses three main characteristics to determine if an activity is actually an act of “domestic terrorism”. (FBI.gov – definition of terrorism). Domestic terrorism can happen anywhere, at any time and without warning. Law enforcement agencies, both local and national, have the

Not all individuals who experience a crime against their person feel that the crime is a hate crime so therefore they do not report them. The distinction between an ordinary vandalism and an actual crime based on hate is very thin and will be determined mainly by the victim themselves. Many reports of such hate crimes cannot necessarily be solved or closed for a number of reasons, but mainly because the individuals who commit the crime are often inconspicuous and not a person that the victim or law enforcement would suspect. Another part of this is that the perpetrator may wait indefinitely before striking again, therefore making it that much harder to determine if he/she is the one committing the

This information and assistance from departments outside their immediate area, or even nationwide, is not normally available. There appears to be misconception that each individual department has to solve their cases without outside help or it shows a possible weakness and inability to do their job. There should only be one purpose which is to solve the crime and bring the person(s) responsible to justice. With this being said, working in conjunction with other departments should be a priority and need. A multi-jurisdictional task force would be a good way to communicate and be used for all crimes that could potentially cross from one area to another, including hate crimes. By utilizing individuals who have been well trained, they could potentially prevent crimes as well as work together to solve cases. We do know that prosecution of hate crimes has become more a high priority and some new specialized units created in the US court system. These new units go after those accused in a more vigorous way than every day prosecutors can. They have specialized training that allows them to use legal case studies and law to be able to prosecute more strongly and effectively. The courts seem to find these specialized units to have benefit and what these individuals working in the units do can instill