counterterrorism efforts against the earth liberation front (elf)

Ethan Komarinski

1996 – 2001: criminal investigations◦ local and state law enforcement

2001: domestic terrorist group◦ Joint Terrorism Task Forces (JTTFs)

FBI and ATF Agents state and local law enforcement

2004: Consolidation of seven independent field office investigations

January 20, 2006: 11 members of an ELF cell, known as “The Family”, were charged with acts of domestic terrorism

To date, 17 individuals have been indicted, with 15 pleading guilty

Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996 (AEDPA)◦ Terrorism enhancement◦ Enhanced penalties for use of explosives or arson

crimes◦ 5 to 20 year imprisonment for property damage◦ 7 to 40 year imprisonment for personal injury◦ Death Penalty, or 20 years to life for cause of

death

Since 2005, indictments against 30 individuals related to eco-terrorism

ELF still exists Still a possibility for ELF members to

resurface Plan of deterrence for future attacks No major incidents since 2009