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A rather unfortunate report from the Defense Department’s inspector general shows major flaws in military screening practices meant to weed out extremists during the recruitment process. A press release from the inspector general’s office summarized the report’s findings Monday:
This report highlights that the military service recruiting organizations generally screened applicants for extremist and criminal gang behavior using applicant interviews, screening questionnaires, tattoo reviews, and background investigations. However, we identified a number of instances where military service recruiters did not complete required screening steps in accordance [with] military service guidance. For example, military service recruiters did not always administer screening questionnaires or forms, provide evidence of fingerprint check results, or provide evidence that a background investigation was initiated.
The report found that recruiters “generally” screened applicants for extremist and criminal gang behavior in accordance with department policy. But, importantly, applicants required to go through additional screening often received an insufficient review, according to the report, potentially allowing extremists to slip through.
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