Policing Religion: Identifying Strategies to Prevent Violence Perpetrated by New Religious Movements

• In Event: Terrorism Grievances, Ideology, and Violence

Abstract

While many new religious movements do not engage in violence, examples of extreme harm by new religious movements—such as sexual abuse, homicide, mass suicide, and terrorism—have drawn concern from law enforcement around the world. In the wake of violence by NRMs, the law enforcement response or failure to respond is often criticized by the public and policy makers. This study investigates how law enforcement may identify risk for NRM violence and which law enforcement strategies may prevent harm to the NRM members and surrounding community. Using a novel open-source dataset of NRMs, we assess the outcomes of law enforcement interventions in order to identify viable intervention strategies. Suitable intervention options will be recommended based on observable NRM characteristics and behaviors. I will conclude with a discussion of the potential conflicts and policy concerns that may arise when law enforcement intervenes in religious activities and communities.

Author

• Tess Hemmila, University of Massachusetts Lowell