Islamophobic Think Tank Helped Prosectors Write Terror Indictment Against ICE Protesters
The Bottom Line
An Islamophobic think tank researcher helped prosecutors draft a terror indictment against ICE protesters.
How This Affects You
This case could set a precedent for how federal prosecutors use outside groups to target activists, potentially affecting your right to protest.
A researcher from the Center for Security Policy assisted Justice Department prosecutors in crafting the indictment for terror charges against alleged "north Texas antifa cell" members, according to his Monday testimony. Kyle Shideler stated he provided language used in the first-ever domestic terrorism case against a purported antifa cell, a month before the indictment was obtained. Defense attorneys questioned Shideler's qualifications and the Center for Security Policy's designation as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. Shideler's testimony, which will continue, aims to link the defendants' actions to antifa practices, despite some defendants denying affiliation. This cooperation between federal prosecutors and an advocacy group highlights the government's approach to left-wing activism.
What's Being Done
Actions, solutions, and how to get involved
Defense attorneys are challenging the involvement of a researcher from the Center for Security Policy in crafting a federal indictment against alleged 'north Texas antifa cell' members, questioning his qualifications and the organization's designation as a hate group. The ongoing legal proceedings include testimony from the researcher regarding his assistance to Justice Department prosecutors. Citizens can monitor court proceedings and support organizations advocating for prosecutorial independence and civil liberties.
This article is part of a story we're tracking:
ISIS-Inspired Terror Charges After NYC Protest Bombing
Two individuals have been charged with terrorism offenses after allegedly attempting to detonate nail bombs near an anti-Islam protest in New York City. Federal authorities state the incident was ISIS-inspired, leading to an FBI terrorism investigation.
ISIS-Inspired Terror Charges Following Explosives Incident in NYC
Two individuals have been charged with ISIS-inspired terrorism offenses after allegedly throwing a nail bomb and explosives near an anti-Islam protest and the New York City mayor's residence. Federal authorities are investigating the incident, which caused significant backlash and concern.
Should this be getting more attention?
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