Retired Commander from Scotland Yard sheds some light on Violent Radicalization

International Counterterrorism Expert Robert Milton presented a frank discussion on terrorism in today’s society, discussing the recent terror attacks and how the criminal justice system as a whole must work together to stop similarly events from occurring. The lecture was part of the QCC Criminal Justice Department Speaker Series.

As a retired Commander of Scotland Yard, Mr. Milton examined terrorism throughout history and discussed the process that leads up to violent radicalization. Terrorism is defined as an active opposition to the fundamental values of a country. Violent extremism is taking radical views and putting them into action.

“What we need to do is get upstream of the problem,” he said.

Citing case after case of global terror attacks, Mr. Milton discussed the similarities with many of the attacked and the attackers. 

“Is there a profile? Is there a process of radicalization? Who is susceptible? What can we do to interrupt that process,” he asked.

He noted that when dealing with human behavior people are motivated by causes they are passionate about – sometimes so passionate that they are willing to sacrifice themselves even for a stranger because they’re passion for a cause is so strong.

So who is more likely to be susceptible? According to studies, mainly males on average 25 years of age, although recently they are seeing more women and teenagers. They may suffer from mental illness; males may have an increased likelihood of a criminal background and acquire extremist views while in prison.  Being an under-achiever, being isolated or unpopular are also known profile traits.

However, Mr. Milton said the real reality is that there really isn’t a true profile. He said the key is to watch for warning signs, behavioral indicators. Signs to watch for include a person:

• having a perception of grievances or injustices
• having been a victim of mistreatment, a crime or perceived racial abuse or prejudice
• having empathy for the plight of others and blames authority for suffering (military, government, the media)
• blaming other for lack of opportunities
• Envying others
• lacking trust and tolerance in others (particularly government and law enforcement)
• gets angry and defensive if they are questioned on their beliefs
• becomes rude and aggressive towards a particular group of people
• joins a group of people with similar ideology
• begins researching and googling to identify other similar people and groups and what they are saying
• becomes secretive
• becomes very passionate about some issue or belief

 While individual warning signs may not be a concern, grouped together they become a red flag.

Recognizing the warning signs might help families, he said, adding, “Don’t ignore small changes.”