Fact Check: Is there a group of people called Veterans on Patrol vandalizing weather radar systems?
What We Know
Recent reports indicate that a group known as Veterans on Patrol has been linked to threats against weather radar systems, specifically the Doppler radar network operated by the National Weather Service (NWS). According to emails from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this group has been described as a "violent militia-style group" that believes these radars are "weather weapons" used by the government to manipulate weather patterns (CNN). The Southern Poverty Law Center categorizes Veterans on Patrol as an anti-government militia organization (CNN).
In a specific incident, the founder of Veterans on Patrol, Michael Lewis Arthur Meyer, confirmed that the group is actively targeting weather radars in Oklahoma, stating, "Absolutely," when asked if they were targeting these systems (News 9). This claim was corroborated by the presence of a sign near an Oklahoma weather radar warning of the group's intentions (News 9).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that Veterans on Patrol is vandalizing weather radar systems is substantial. NOAA's internal communications indicate that the group has been involved in multiple encounters with NWS facilities, advocating for "penetration drills" to identify weaknesses in the radar systems (CNN). This suggests a proactive approach to potentially damaging these critical infrastructures.
Moreover, the group's beliefs about weather manipulation are not only fringe but have led to actual vandalism, as evidenced by a recent incident where an individual associated with Veterans on Patrol vandalized a weather radar operated by News 9 in Oklahoma City (News 9). The police are currently investigating this incident, further indicating that there is a tangible threat posed by the group.
While the claims made by Veterans on Patrol regarding weather manipulation are scientifically unfounded, the group's actions and intentions have been documented by credible news sources and government communications. The Southern Poverty Law Center's classification of the group adds a layer of credibility to the concerns about their activities, as this organization specializes in monitoring hate groups and extremist organizations.
Conclusion
The claim that Veterans on Patrol is vandalizing weather radar systems is True. The evidence from multiple sources, including NOAA communications and direct statements from the group's leadership, confirms that they are actively targeting these systems under the belief that they are involved in weather manipulation. The documented vandalism incident in Oklahoma further substantiates the claim.
Sources
- A militarized conspiracy theorist group believes radars are ... CNN
- 'Anti-government militia' says it’s targeting Oklahoma ... News 9
- Odd news: Man vandalizes Oklahoma City News 9 radar Laredo Morning Times
