New FBI rules relax restrictions

[kayell]

http://www.ajc.com/news/content/news/1103/06fbiterror.html

(reposting a thread that was closed earlier for incorrect title
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=102&topic_id=204455 )

WASHINGTON -- The FBI will be able to more easily check a person's background for potential terrorist activities under national security guidelines issued Wednesday by Attorney General John Ashcroft.

Civil libertarians said the rules could invite abuses against innocent people.

The guidelines enable the FBI to conduct a "threat assessment" of potential terrorists or terrorist activity without initial evidence of a crime or national security threat, as required to begin a more formal preliminary or full investigation.

The purpose is to ensure the FBI approaches these investigations "with an eye toward early intervention and prevention of acts of terrorism before they occur," according to the guidelines.

more

[rumguy]

1. Creeping totalitarianism...

I wouldn't be so worried if there wasn't a joyless religous freak behind all these changes. What kind of person thinks dancing is immoral? Talk about being about being out of touch with the American people.

[tom_paine]

3. Yep one more step towards Totalitarian Empire

An Ashcroft thinks dancing is immoral?

Got a link for that bit of insanity?

I guess he must also think the movie "Footloose" is the work of the devil, eh?

I hope you are mistaken about this.

[E_Zapata]

2. well, that solves that little problem in the Supreme Court

re the question about secret search warrants that is getting some heat on Ashcroft. (the secret search warrants under foreign threats that is now being used against citizens).

What a solution! Screw the warrants and the courts entirely. The FBI will just police itself!

I gotta get the hell out of this insane country.

[Rex]

4. Pre-emptive strikes on potential terrorists with Lord Crisco

at the helm...the horror...the horror... :scared:

[Tom Yossarian Joad]

5. kick