The following is a statement from the FBI regarding the Armed Militia takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Harney County, Oregon.
“The FBI recognizes that many in the community have questions about why we are here and our role in helping to end the occupation of the wildlife refuge. We are here to work closely with Sheriff Ward and our local, state and federal partners to protect the safety and welfare of this community. This occupation has caused tremendous disruption and hardship for the people of Harney County, and our response has been deliberate and measured as we seek a peaceful resolution. Due to safety considerations for both those inside the refuge as well as the law enforcement officers involved, we will not be releasing any specifics with regards to the law enforcement response.”
On January 2, 2016, the headquarters of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge were occupied by armed members of rump militias who had split off from an earlier peaceful march in protest of the prison sentences for ranchers Dwight Hammond and his son, Steven Hammond. The two were convicted of arson on federal land, were ultimately sentenced to five years imprisonment, and are now seeking clemency from the U.S. president.
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