Terrorism

Human caused hazards are intentional, criminal, malicious uses of force and violence to perpetrate disasters against people or property.  They can be the result of terrorism, actions intended to intimidate or coerce a government or the civilian population to further political or social objectives, which can be either domestic or international, depending on the origin, base and objectives of the terrorist organization. Or they can be acts of individuals perpetrated for personal reasons.

Hazards can result from the use of weapons of mass destruction, including biological, chemical, nuclear and radiological weapons; arson, incendiary, explosive and armed attacks; industrial sabotage and intentional hazardous materials releases; and cyber terrorism.

The Duluth/Superior Harbor and the Duluth Airport could be potential targets for terrorism as well as other infrastructure such as power and pipelines traversing the County. The Coast Guard has conducted a risk assessment for facilities within the Duluth Superior Harbor as part of their Western Lake Superior Maritime Security Plan.

History

St. Louis County has no history of terrorist activity or individual acts to cause disasters against people or property. However, during the Anthrax scare there were a number of false anthrax threats that had to be responded to in the County. Vandalism, assaults and other criminal acts do occur, but these isolated incidents fall within the purview of local law enforcement.