Lone wolf terrorism
Lone wolf terrorism is on the rise both domestically within the United States and abroad. Local, state, federal, and international law enforcement and intelligence agencies are working diligently to prevent future attacks.
In a two-page reflection paper, complete the following:
Locate one recent lone wolf terrorist attack that occurred in the United States and abroad (two events).
Provide a synopsis on the events and the lessons learned by local, state, federal, and global law enforcement and intelligence agencies. How are law enforcement and intelligence agencies using the lessons learned to create new resiliency-based strategies to prevent similar attacks from re-occurring?
Explain the psychological and sociological impacts that each of these attacks had on society.
Reflect on three recommendations that could be used to reduce lone wolf terrorism globally.
Sample Solution
In recent years, the scourge of lone wolf terrorism has become a major threat to security both domestically and abroad. This form of terrorism is highly unpredictable and can often be difficult to detect or prevent; as such it requires a concerted collaboration between local, state, federal, and international law enforcement agencies in order ensure public safety. One recent example of this type attack occurred in August 2019 when an armed gunman opened fire at the Walmart in El Paso Texas—killing twenty-two people and injuring numerous others before being apprehended by police.
This incident serves as an example how serious lone wolf attacks can be despite their unpredictability. In response to this tragedy—along with other similar events which have occurred throughout US history—law enforcement and intelligence agencies are now implementing new “resiliency-based” strategies which seek help mitigate any potential threats posed by individuals who may present radical ideologies or share extremist views online. This includes things like using data analytics track activity on certain websites/social media platforms monitor for suspicious behavior from known troublemakers while still respecting privacy rights; increased surveillance on high-profile locations where large crowds gather; recruiting members of foreign governments into joint task forces etc.
More broadly speaking, though these efforts demonstrate just how important it is for all levels government work together protect citizens against terroristic activities no matter where they occur. It also shows us that although physical barriers like walls or heightened security measures are beneficial deterrents there will always need proper planning coordination if we want keep our communities safe long term.
