This excerpt originally appeared in Policing White Supremacy: The Enemy Within, published by The New Press.
White Supremacy Within Law Enforcement: A Persistent Threat
The persistent issue of white supremacist infiltration within law enforcement poses a significant threat to the communities meant to be protected by these agencies. Despite the gravity of this issue, the FBI has shown reluctance to address it. In a House of Representatives testimony, the scope of racism, white supremacy, and far-right extremism within police forces was discussed. However, invitations for the FBI to participate in the hearing were declined. According to Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), bureau officials refuted previously issued intelligence reports highlighting this problem, minimizing its current significance. Such denials were starkly contradicted by the events of January 6th, which exposed the severe risk posed by unchecked extremist elements within law enforcement.
A Call to Action
The book emphasizes the urgent need for reforms at all levels of law enforcement to better protect the public from right-wing extremism and to eliminate blatant racism and white supremacy within their ranks. Historically, police have been utilized to uphold racist legislation, from early slave patrols in the American colonies to contemporary institutional inequities in the criminal justice system. The ongoing passivity of law enforcement towards racist violence aids in perpetuating discriminatory systems, making a statement about whose lives are prioritized in America.
Addressing the Issue
Correcting deficiencies in managing violent white supremacy is more feasible than it seems. Congress has already endowed law enforcement with the necessary tools to investigate and prosecute those involved in white supremacist and far-right violence. When utilized correctly, these tools prove highly effective, as demonstrated by the U.S. Justice Department charging over 1,200 individuals involved in the Capitol insurrection, including those from prominent extremist groups. Most defendants have either pled guilty or been convicted. Additionally, legal actions have been pursued against a former president and his allies for efforts to subvert a legitimate election.
Challenges in Prioritization
Despite these successes, law enforcement has yet to fully prioritize far-right violence as a pressing national security concern. Many participants from the January 6th riot remain uncharged, despite being identified by independent investigators. Far-right groups continue to commit acts of violence without adequate response from authorities. The Justice Department and FBI have resisted legislative calls to gather comprehensive national data on violent acts committed by white supremacists and far-right militants. The recognition and documentation of this violence are essential steps towards effective enforcement, allowing for accountability and resource allocation tailored to the threat.
Strategic and Focused Approaches Needed
Effective counteraction against white supremacist violence necessitates strategies that are both strategic and focused. Law enforcement must utilize data to comprehend the extent and nature of extremist violence and recognize the overarching goal of these militants to normalize it as a political tactic. Furthermore, the focus should be on evidence of violent criminal conduct rather than political beliefs, to prevent biased investigations and ensure resources are directed at real threats.
Limiting Police Roles and Empowering Communities
Limiting the police’s role in addressing white supremacy involves reallocating resources to communities affected by such violence. Restorative approaches to hate crimes and far-right violence can repair social cohesion, countering the divisive aims of white supremacists.
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Copyright © 2025 by Mike German and Beth Zasloff. Reprinted here with permission.
