CNAS: Preventing and mitigating domestic violent extremism in the military, veteran, and law enforcement communities

The involvement of military and law enforcement personnel and veterans in domestic violent extremist organisations and activities is a cause for concern due to their authority to use force for national security and public safety. To prevent engagement with extremist groups, this report recommends screening done during the recruitment, training and management currently serving personnel, and as well as screening and educating those transitioning out of service. While the Department of Defense has a centralised structure to address extremism within the military, the law enforcement community operates in a decentralised manner, making it difficult to implement formal mechanisms. In addition to policy updates, engaging in and enforcing a shared professional ethic through internal enforcement and membership organisations can be effective in preventing participation in extremist activities.