Secrets and Sabotage: One Man’s Fight Against America’s Militias
Explore Joshua Kaplan's gripping ProPublica investigation into John Williams, a wilderness survivalist who risked his life to infiltrate and expose America’s militia movements.
Being January 6th, I'm reflecting on the complete and total failure of our intelligence agencies and justice system in allowing Trump to once again take office (I'm looking at you Merrick Garland). That said, here's something interesting, take infiltration and investigation into your own hands...
In The Militia and the Mole, Joshua Kaplan takes readers deep into the dangerous and clandestine world of right-wing militias through the story of John Williams, a wilderness survival trainer turned undercover operative. Over two years, Williams infiltrated some of the most prominent militia groups in the United States, including the Oath Keepers and American Patriots Three Percent (AP3). The trove of documents and recordings he provided offers a rare and unsettling glimpse into the operations, beliefs, and high-profile connections within these groups.
Key Takeaways
- A New Generation of Militias: Kaplan reveals how modern militias include professionals like doctors, government attorneys, and law enforcement officers.
- Dangerous Liaisons: Williams uncovered disturbing ties between militia groups and law enforcement, raising questions about the extent of extremist influence in public institutions.
- The Psychological Toll: Living as a double agent pushed Williams to the brink, illustrating the immense personal costs of his mission.
Kaplan meticulously details Williams' journey, from his first contact with the militia world to his dramatic flight into hiding after his identity was compromised. Along the way, we learn about the secret operations he uncovered—like surveillance of journalists—and the risks he took to sabotage extremist activities from within.
Jacob Orledge
