U.S. Attorney Convenes Multi-Agency Briefing Informing Local Community Leaders on Targeted Violence Indicators

SAN DIEGO – In response to recent violent shootings, online white supremacist rhetoric, and a significant increase in hate crimes, U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman today gathered key law enforcement and community leaders for a briefing that included a threat assessment, an overview of pre-attack indicators and the best ways to report and mitigate threats. 

Grossman was joined by DHS officials in Washington, D.C., Marcus Coleman, Director of the DHS Faith Based and Community Relations Program, and Dominic Cucciarre, Team Lead in the DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis, Counterterrorism Mission Center, several local law enforcement leaders, including Curtis Jones, Deputy National Sector Chief, FBI - InfraGard Program, San Diego Police Department Chief Dave Nisleit, Assistant District Attorney Dwain Woodley, FBI Supervisory Special Agent Renee Green, and two Fusion Center Senior Intelligence Analysts, as well as more than a dozen stakeholders who work in  Southeast San Diego, including leaders of the San Diego Organizing Project, which requested the briefing.

“While the combination of hateful online rhetoric and access to firearms presents a chilling challenge, prevention through partnerships has saved lives, both nationally and here in San Diego,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “Violent remarks by online extremists have resulted in public ‘tip’ reports to law enforcement, followed by a gun violence restraining order and successful federal prosecution. To ensure this prevention strategy is repeated, it is essential to arm our community leaders with information.”

“It’s important that the community members know they are not alone in this battle against radical extremism, hateful threats and targeted gun violence: federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are with you, ready to assist in every way possible,” Grossman added. “We want to work hand in hand with you to keep your loved ones and community safe.”

“Our faith and nonprofit leaders are often in the best position to notice and report suspicious behavior,” Marcus Coleman stated. “We need to ensure they are briefed on the latest intelligence so they can better identify pre-attack indicators and contact law enforcement.”