He infiltrated America’s militias — and then spilled their secrets
Jan 23, 2025
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Joshua Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter, dives into the tumultuous world of American militias. He discusses the ramifications of Donald Trump's pardons, which have reignited militia activity, highlighting experiences of an undercover operative who infiltrated these groups. Kaplan reveals the dual nature of militias — part community clubs, part paramilitary organizations — and the dangers of extremism, illustrated by a former member's struggle to leave. The conversation also explores the troubling connection between law enforcement and militia affiliations.
Donald Trump's pardons for January 6th participants signify a dangerous shift that could revitalize support for militias in America.
Infiltrator John Williams revealed how militias integrate law enforcement personnel and use community service to gain operational freedom.
Deep dives
Impact of Trump's Pardons on Militia Groups
Donald Trump's issuance of pardons for individuals involved in the January 6th attack on the Capitol represents a significant shift in public sentiment towards militias. With pardons granted to influential figures such as Enrique Tarrio of the Proud Boys and Stuart Rhodes of the Oath Keepers, these groups are gaining renewed credibility and support. The rhetoric surrounding these pardons portrays the rioters as political prisoners, which could embolden militia movements previously thought to be marginalized following the attack. This unprecedented clemency decision signals a potential resurgence for militias that had been retreating in the wake of backlash from the January 6th events.
The Role of Informant Infiltration
An undercover infiltrator, known as John Williams, has provided crucial insights into militia operations from within. Operating independently, he collected extensive evidence revealing recruitment practices that included integrating active duty police and military personnel into militia ranks. The information he gathered highlights dangerous activities, such as armed patrols and the planning of violent acts against perceived enemies of the militia. His motivations stemmed from a desire to mitigate the influence of these groups, using tactical deception to rise within their ranks and ultimately expose their activities.
Tactics for Establishing Law Enforcement Ties
Militia groups have developed sophisticated strategies for ingratiating themselves with law enforcement to ensure operational freedom. These tactics include community service endeavors aimed at presenting themselves as beneficial community members while simultaneously downplaying their militia identity. By maintaining friendly relations with local authorities, they hope to mitigate scrutiny and foster an environment where they can operate with more autonomy. This relationship with law enforcement not only bolsters their credibility but also allows them to navigate volatile situations with less resistance from the very entities tasked with upholding the law.
The militia movement in America has a long, embattled history — and President Trump ushered in a new chapter with his sweeping grant of clemency to the more than 1,500 people charged for their involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. ProPublica reporter Joshua Kaplan sat down with Apple News In Conversation host Shumita Basu to talk about the message these pardons send and the insights of a unique source who secretly infiltrated and climbed the ranks of militia groups in America.
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