Builders Be Watchful: Radical Environmental Group Damaging Construction Sites
NAHB has learned that a radical environmental group — the Earth Liberation Front (ELF) — is stepping up its acts of destruction at residential construction sites. 

Recently, two acts of arson were allegedly committed by ELF at job sites in Michigan. In both cases, homes under construction were burned to the ground and the words “E.L.F.” and “Stop Sprawl” were scribbled on equipment.

The recent acts of arson at residential construction sites in Michigan suggest ELF is resuming its campaign against development. 

The FBI labels ELF as one of the nation's most active and destructive domestic terror groups, responsible for more than $43 million in damage in more than 600 attacks since 1996 to corporations, individuals and government agencies. Among the group's acts was a 1998 arson attack at the Vail Ski Resort in Colorado that did up to $14 million in damage when seven fires simultaneously erupted at the top of the ski area. Earlier this year, their prime targets were sport utility vehicles and car dealerships. They claimed responsibility for the burning and/or vandalism of several dealerships in Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan and California. 

NAHB members should take precautions to ensure security at their job site, especially after hours. These precautions could include meeting with security companies, local law enforcement officials, fire departments and insurance providers to learn how to better protect their construction sites from arson; and installing security video cameras and signage stating that the job site is monitored and protected through the use of security cameras. 

For more information, contact Neil Gaffney at 800-368-5242 x8495. [ return to top ]