Facebook’s Boogaloo Purge Linked to Whitmer Kidnapping Plot: Key Details
FBI Uncovers Violent Plot Against Michigan Governor
According to a newly released FBI affidavit, federal investigators uncovered a group planning “violent action against multiple state governments,” including a detailed scheme to kidnap or kill Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The plotters allegedly coordinated through:
- Facebook groups
- In-person meetings
- Encrypted chat apps (unnamed by the FBI)
How Anti-Lockdown Sentiment Fueled Extremism
Governor Whitmer, a Democrat, became a prime target of right-wing anti-lockdown protests after implementing COVID-19 safety measures. Key developments:
- June 2020: Group members discussed murdering “tyrants” at an in-person meeting
- 13 individuals charged in connection with the plot
- Group expanded by connecting with Michigan’s Wolverine Watchmen militia
Facebook’s Role in the Investigation
Facebook removed the Wolverine Watchmen group during its June 2020 purge of boogaloo movement affiliates. Key facts:
- Group recruited on Facebook from November 2019-June 2020
- Facebook designated the network as “dangerous” and banned it
- Company claims “proactive” cooperation with FBI investigation
“We remove content, disable accounts and immediately report to law enforcement when there is a credible threat of imminent harm,” a Facebook spokesperson stated.
Escalating Threats and Planning
The plot evolved through several phases:
- Initial Rage: Adam Fox, an alleged organizer, live-streamed rants calling Whitmer a “tyrant bitch”
- Target Selection: Group considered attacking a police station before focusing on Whitmer
- Detailed Planning: Conducted surveillance of Whitmer’s vacation home and discussed:
- Kidnapping for a “trial”
- Potential execution
- Bridge explosion to divert police
Facebook’s Evolving Extremism Policies
The platform has implemented several recent policy changes:
- August 2020: Crackdown on “militarized social movements”
- October 2020: Bans on QAnon and voter intimidation content
- Ongoing removal of state militia groups (Michigan Liberty Militia, Michigan Militia Corps)
The Broader Challenge of Online Extremism
Experts warn about systemic issues:
- Algorithmic recommendations can radicalize users
- Public groups serve as recruitment tools before moving to private channels
- Groups often reorganize under new names after bans
Facebook continues facing difficult balancing acts between free expression and public safety as it addresses domestic extremism on its platform.
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