The irony of an Occupy-affiliated group bombing the Democrats would be rich.
CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) – Law enforcement officials are concerned about possible violence by anarchist extremists at the upcoming Republican and Democratic national conventions, according to an intelligence bulletin prepared by the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.
The seven-page bulletin, obtained by WBTV, outlines information about potential anarchist extremism-related violent criminal activity and threats to public safety during the national political conventions, which start next week in Tampa.
At one point, the Joint Intelligence Bulletin states that anarchists could try to use improvised explosive devices.
“Anarchist extremists and other domestic extremist groups probably lack the capability to overcome the heightened security measures at the RNC and DNC venues,” the report states, “but could target nearby infrastructure, including local businesses or transportation systems and law enforcement personnel.”
The report states that a majority of anarchist activities during major events usually involve acts of property damage, vandalism and trespassing. Past extremists have escalated to violent tactics such as assault and arson.
According to the unclassified document, individuals were reported coordinating criminal actions against the Bank of America in Charlotte, via a free downloadable software application, in May 2012.
A spokesperson for the Charlotte office of the FBI told WBTV that she could not comment on the document.
“I can tell you the FBI utilizes a variety of means to communicate with law enforcement and share information to assist in their overall situational awareness.” she told WBTV.
The document notes anarchists have a history of trying to disrupt major events.
“During past national and international political and economic events, anarchist extremists have blocked streets, intersections, and bridges to disrupt or impede local business operations and public transportation access and, in some instances have initiated violent confrontations with police,” the document states.