The Mole Within: How a Freelance Vigilante Infiltrated Two Leading Right-Wing Militias

A wilderness survival trainer, who operated undercover for over two years, has shared his explosive experiences within right-wing militias with unprecedented detail, revealing a troubling synergy between extremist groups and certain law enforcement officials.

John Williams, a 6-foot-4-inch vigilante with a knack for deception, meticulously documented his time infiltrating the Oath Keepers and other militia organizations, capturing numerous conversations on tape. His investigation presents a stark look into a realm populated by militia members that include DOCTORS and attorneys, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of such groups in the current political climate.

In April 2023, Williams launched his escape, fearing that his dual identity had been discovered. With a go-bag filled with essential survival gear and encrypted files, he fled to the foothills near Salt Lake City, where he spent nights in his aging car, recording a diary entry laden with anxiety and uncertainty.

His infiltration began post-January 6, 2021, driven by disillusionment with the political landscape. Motivated by what he perceived as a growing domestic terrorism threat, Williams decided to act independently, refusing to collaborate with law enforcement for fear of being branded an informant. Instead, he focused on gathering intelligence that could expose the dangerous undertones of the militia movement.

The documents and recordings he provided to ProPublica, which highlight his intricate web of deceit, document his rise to notable positions within these groups. Williams became the Utah commander of one militia, subverting operations while convincing members he was one of them.

Amid increasing paranoia about his safety and the ethical implications of his secretive actions, Williams expressed deep concerns about the threats that the militia members posed, including an emphasis on armed confrontations at protests. He took measures to undermine volatile situations, attempting to mislead militia members away from potential clashes.

As he gathered information, Williams stumbled upon disturbing connections between local militias and law enforcement, including a sheriff he later identified as an Oath Keepers ally. The implications of these relationships painted a concerning picture of complicity that deeply unsettled him.

The culmination of his activities and research led Williams to make a decision to come forward, documenting every detail meticulously while preparing to expose the movement from within. His resolve intensified when he realized the urgency of releasing his findings to a broader audience, thereby ensuring that the groups would face scrutiny.

Now, as he navigates life on the edge of visibility, Williams is contemplating his next steps. He has committed to continue his work against the very groups he once infiltrated, seeking to disrupt their activities through the exposure of their internal secrets. His story, encapsulating the complexities of modern militia movements, serves as a warning about the intersections of extremism and authority.