NCJ Number
127968
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 60 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1991) Pages: 14-17
Date Published
1991
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the FBI's activities and responsibilities in investigating crimes that stem from racial/ethnic hatred ("hate-violence" crimes).
Abstract
Currently, the FBI is the lead Federal agency responsible for investigating hate-violence incidents. Such cases receive top priority in the FBI's Civil Rights Program. Responsibilities include prevention efforts as well as swift action when incidents occur. The FBI has two distinct investigative programs designed to combat hate violence. The Domestic Counter-terrorism Program focuses on the unlawful use of force or violence by terrorist groups for political or social ends. Targeted organizations include hate groups such as The Order, Aryan Nations, the White Patriots Party, and the Skinheads. Such groups target blacks, Orientals, Mexicans, Jews, and other racial and ethnic groups. The FBI can legally investigate violent groups to determine their structure, scope, and membership. Such intelligence information may help prevent violence by these groups. In contrast to the Domestic Counter-terrorism Program, which focuses on organizations, the Civil Rights Program addresses hate violence committed by individuals or small, unorganized groups. This is accomplished by responding to the thousands of criminal civil rights complaints received each year. Case studies of FBI operations under the two aforementioned programs are presented.