What Should I Do if I Am Facing Charges of Domestic Terrorism?

 Posted on August 17, 2022 in Federal Crimes

After the horrific events of September 11, 2001, U.S. Congress enacted the USA PATRIOT Act. Meant to deter and punish terrorists, the PATRIOT Act significantly broadened measures to catch terrorists, including domestic terrorists, and keep Americans safe. 

While the PATRIOT Act was undoubtedly enacted with lofty goals in mind, critics immediately voiced concerns that continue to this day. Activist campaigns and organizations frequently engage in activities that could technically be considered domestic terrorism, and indeed, people are sometimes prosecuted for acts of conscience. Certain sections of the Act, including those on civil forfeiture, broadened government powers in ways that critics claim are easily abused. If you are facing charges of domestic terrorism, know that you do not have to face them alone. You can get help from a criminal defense attorney and fight the charges against you. 

Claims of Domestic Terrorism Increasing

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have made big claims in recent years about the extent to which domestic terrorism has spread throughout the country. While some people firmly believe the broadened scope of what is considered domestic terrorism is politically motivated, if you are hit with domestic terrorism charges, it does not matter what political party you are - you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. 

To complicate matters, domestic terrorism is not a specific crime per se - instead, it is defined as any act which occurs within American jurisdiction, is dangerous to human life, violates state or federal laws, and appears to be intended to: 

• Intimidate civilians

• Influence government policy by use of intimidation of coercion

• Influence governmental conduct by kidnapping, assassination, or mass destruction 

The PATRIOT Act also expanded the government’s ability to legally monitor civilian activities during a domestic terrorism investigation. It reduces the amount of governmental oversight required to acquire private records like taxpayer and educational records. 

Convictions for domestic terrorism carry serious, life-changing penalties. These include life imprisonment without parole, expensive fines, permanent felon status or other criminal records, loss of flying privileges, passport revocation, and more. 

Call an Illinois Federal Crimes Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with domestic terrorism, or if you are even being questioned by the FBI or other law enforcement about terrorist activity, get help right away from an experienced Chicago federal crimes defense attorney. You can fight charges and get representation from an attorney who will protect your rights and prevent federal law enforcement from deceiving you or unjustly persecuting you. Call the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney now at 312-629-0669 to schedule your free consultation. 

Source: 

https://www.congress.gov/107/plaws/publ56/PLAW-107publ56.htm

https://www.aclu.org/other/how-usa-patriot-act-redefines-domestic-terrorism