Squirrel Hill rep says anti-domestic terror resources should be increased
Rep. Dan B. Frankel April 2, 2019 | 4:13 PM
PITTSBURGH, April 2 – A reported move by the federal Homeland Security Department to disband a group of intelligence agents focused on domestic terrorism and homegrown extremists comes at a time when the federal government should be increasing resources to counter these groups, said state Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny.
“Domestic terrorism and right-wing extremism have forever changed my community, who lost 11 innocent people last year to homegrown hate,” Frankel said. “This is the time to increase resources to study these groups and stop them before more lives are lost.
“Soon, I will introduce a package of bills to address hate crimes more fully at the state level, but I am disappointed to learn that we cannot count on our federal counterparts to be a full partner in our effort to keep all people safe and secure.”
According to media reports, the intelligence group in question was a branch of analysts in DHS’s Office of Intelligence and Analysis. They focused on the threat from homegrown violent extremists and domestic terrorists. Those analysts shared their information with state and local law enforcement to help them protect their communities from these threats.
A Southern Poverty Law Center analysis released last month found that hate group activity reached a record high last year. Their report is available at: https://www.splcenter.org/news/2019/02/19/hate-groups-reach-record-high
Please use the form below to sign up for email updates. By completing this form you are acknowledging your request to receive periodic email updates.
By completing this form, you are verifying your request to opt in for email updates.
Thank you. Your email signup has been sent. You should start getting emails within 24 hours.
Please use the form below to email Rep. Dan B. Frankel.
Thank you. Your feedback has been sent.
2345 Murray Avenue, Suite 205Pittsburgh, PA 15217
P*: (412) 422-1774
F*: (412) 420-2011
332 Main Capitol BuildingPO Box 202023Harrisburg, PA 17120-2023
P*: (717) 705-1875