If you’ve been paying attention to the news, including numerous articles here at The Moderate Voice, you already know about “The List” of 1300 supposed illegal immigrants circulated in Utah. What has gone under the radar is Arizona’s one-upmanship on the issue.
Those familiar with my articles on Arizona’s SB1070 have read about a character named J. T. Ready. A neo-nazi sympathizer and guest speaker for the movement, Ready has, in the past, been a close political ally of SB1070’s chief sponsor in the Arizona Senate. Apparently unfulfilled with his role in the passage of Arizona’s anti-immigrant law, J. T. has formed a vigilante militia to comb the border looking for illegals.
No ordinary citizens assist group, Ready’s vigilantes sport military fatigues, body armor and gas masks. The outfits are accessorized with military helmets and assault rifles. Ready reports that he and his followers have “declared war” on “narco-terrorists.” Here is what AZcentral.com reports:
“Jason ‘J.T.’ Ready says he’s taking matters into his own hands, declaring war on “narco-terrorists” and keeping an eye out for illegal immigrants. The 37-year-old ex-Marine and his friends are outfitted with military fatigues, body armor and gas masks, and carry assault rifles. Ready takes offense at the term “neo-Nazi,” but admits he identifies with the National Socialist Movement.”
The images that accompany the report show Ready in battle gear and the equipment for his private war laid neatly out for the cameras. Take a look here. Notice, in particular, the shirts and baseball caps that have “POLICE” emblazened across them. And you thought Utah had a problem with vigilante justice.
[Photo above is J. T. Ready in “uniform”].
Cross posted at Elijah’s Sweete Spot.
Contributor, aka tidbits. Retired attorney in complex litigation, death penalty defense and constitutional law. Former Nat’l Board Chair: Alzheimer’s Association. Served on multiple political campaigns, including two for U.S. Senator Mark O. Hatfield (R-OR). Contributing author to three legal books and multiple legal publications.