Crooks' Fantasy: Assassination Attempt Not Politically Motivated

An expert in extremism claims that Thomas Crooks' assassination attempt on former President Trump was not politically driven, but rather a manifestation of a fantasy for attention and notoriety.

**Bethel Park, Pennsylvania** - An expert in extremism and terrorism has concluded that Thomas Matthew Crooks' assassination attempt on former President Trump was unlikely to have been politically motivated. Instead, it is theorized that the 20-year-old was fulfilling a fantasy and seeking a target that would bring him widespread recognition and fame.

Jytte Klausen, a political science professor at Brandeis University, who has extensively studied terrorist networks and violent extremism for two decades, believes that Crooks' actions were not primarily driven by political beliefs. Based on an analysis of his search history, she found no evidence to suggest that he aimed to influence the election.

Crooks' Fantasy: Assassination Attempt Not Politically Motivated

Klausen posits that Crooks desired to make an impact and leave a mark on the world. "He wanted to become somebody - he wanted to make a mark," she said, suggesting that he saw the assassination attempt as a way to achieve notoriety and attention.

Klausen highlights that Crooks did not leave behind a manifesto, a characteristic more typical of school shooters than politically-motivated terrorists. His actions appear to have been isolated, with no evidence of organized elements.

Crooks' Fantasy: Assassination Attempt Not Politically Motivated

Senators were informed that Crooks had posted a chilling message on the gaming platform Steam: "July 13 will be my premiere, watch as it unfolds." Klausen notes the uncertainty surrounding Crooks' expectations for the aftermath of his attack, speculating that he may have envisioned himself surviving and carrying out further acts or attaining widespread recognition.

Klausen emphasizes that there is no typical age range for mass shooters or terrorists, citing the example of Las Vegas shooter Stephen Paddock, who was 64 years old. However, she acknowledges that risk assessment capabilities are typically weaker in younger individuals such as Crooks.

Crooks' Fantasy: Assassination Attempt Not Politically Motivated

While Bethel Park High School denies claims that Crooks was bullied, Klausen points out that some classmates have shared such experiences. She also highlights red flags in his home life, such as his mother's blindness, an alleged hoarding situation, and the failure of his parents to notice deliveries of explosive components.

The extent of Crooks' involvement in online gaming is unclear, but Klausen notes that excessive gaming can lead to a blurring of the lines between the online and real worlds. She emphasizes that it is not a predictor of violence but a risk factor that warrants attention.

Crooks' Fantasy: Assassination Attempt Not Politically Motivated

Klausen stresses the importance of paying attention to young people, especially those who exhibit signs of social isolation, struggles with distinguishing online and real-life interactions, and potential exposure to hazardous materials. The assassination attempt on former President Trump serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent similar incidents.