Friday, October 17, 2008

The Act lists new Federal crimes

The Act also lists several new federal crimes. Two of the more important ones are “domestic terrorism” and “material support”.

“Domestic terrorism” extends beyond acts of violence to include any “ acts dangerous to human life that are a violation of the criminal laws- - - if such acts - -appears to be intended- - to influence the policy of a gov’t by intimidation or coercion” and are conducted primarily within the” U. S. (Room for protest or disagreement?)(Martin Luther King protests for instance.)

Lending material support, “to any terrorist organization designated as such by federal officials, who have complete discretion in deciding which groups have “terrorist” aims. “Material support” is broadly defined to include any, ”physical asset,” “personnel”, “training” or “expert advice or assistance.” This provision does not require proof that a person charged with this crime intended to further any terrorist activities.

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