NCJ Number
102293
Date Published
1985
Length
90 pages
Annotation
A study group established by New York State in 1984 assessed the level of threat that terrorism poses for New York and the current resources and capabilities for dealing with the problem.
Abstract
Group members came from Federal, State, and local agencies involved in counterterrorism. The group defined terrorism as involving an organized group opposed to the political order or a policy, involved in conspiracy, and willing to use violence or to place people at risk to attain goals. The United States has a relatively low rate of terrorism, but 30 to 50 percent of these acts take place in New York State. The State's geography and diverse population permit clandestine activities. The State also has many types of targets, and New York City's role as the world's media capital ensures immediate attention to terrorist acts. Thus, activities of both domestic and international terrorist groups will probably continue. The State must make firm, timely, and consistent responses and must clearly distinguish between responding to legitimate grievances and acceding to terrorist demands. The State must conduct ongoing planning and threat assessment to be prepared to meet any eventuality. Specific steps needed and a list of accomplishments of the study group are provided. Appendixes contain descriptions of a terrorist incident, change of venue legislation, a threat assessment proposal, and a list of escapes/rescues by radicals in the United States.