Militia activity has disrupted FEMA workers efforts in North Carolina post hurricane helene. One party William Jacob Parsons was arrested for allegedly threatening workers FEMA and other emergency personnel have had to hold back operations because of the threats. There appears to be misinformation leading to the challenges and fears .
Disruption in Relief Efforts
RFollowing the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, reports emerged of a hostile environment for federal employees in Rutherford County, North Carolina. The threats were reportedly made by armed militia members who targeted Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) employees. Email advisories were sent out, prompting FEMA staff to evacuate the area for their own safety.
FFederal emergency teams temporarily halted their efforts. This decision was made after National Guard troops came across armed people. These incidents hampered on-the-ground relief efforts aimed at assisting hurricane victims in need.
“Federal emergency response personnel on Saturday had employees operating in hard-hit Rutherford County, N.C., stop working and move to a different area because of concerns over ‘armed militia’ threatening government workers in the region…” pic.twitter.com/20bwCnXsrx
— David Gura (@davidgura) October 14, 2024
Safety Measures and Adjustments
IIn response to these threats, FEMA modified its strategy to better protect its employees. As a precaution, teams switched from door-to-door operations to more secure, permanent disaster assistance sites. While these changes ensure worker safety, they raise concerns about potential delays in providing critical assistance.
“FEMA continues to support communities impacted by Helene and help survivors apply for assistance. For the safety of our dedicated staff and the disaster survivors we are helping, FEMA has made some operational adjustments. Disaster Recovery Centers will continue to be open as scheduled, survivors continue to register for assistance, and we continue to help the people of North Carolina with their recovery,” FEMA said in a statement to CBS News.
Despite these interruptions, FEMA maintained a strong presence in the area, committed to guiding survivors through the assistance application process. Efforts to keep Disaster Recovery Centers operational highlighted FEMA’s dedication.
Federal emergency response personnel on Saturday had employees operating in Rutherford County, N.C., stop working because of concerns over “armed militia” threatening government workers in the region, according to an email sent to federal agencies. https://t.co/TuIOeqjiaq
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) October 14, 2024
Unverified Misinformation and Misinstructed Actions
AMisinformation about federal response measures spread across social media platforms, fueling fears and misunderstandings. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper urged citizens to be wary of these rumors and emphasized the importance of community recovery efforts. Concerns grew as some false claims sparked vigilante actions, exacerbating fears among federal agencies.
“We are aware of significant misinformation online and reports of threats to response workers on the ground and the safety of responders must be taken seriously,” said Jordan Monaghan, deputy communications director for North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper.
The federal response included $600 million in promised aid for hurricane-devastated areas. Despite challenges, FEMA and local law enforcement remain focused on ensuring these relief efforts continue, undeterred by misinformation and intimidations.
Sources:
Hurricane Response Disrupted By Reports of Militia ‘Hunting FEMA’
Arrest made after threat to FEMA in North Carolina as hurricane relief operations continue
