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This is the archived version of MPAC's website. For the latest updates, visit mpac.org.
This is the archived version of MPAC's website. For the latest updates, visit mpac.org.
Muslim Public Affairs Council
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Islam and Law Enforcement

Former LAPD Deputy Chief: “Terrorism Is Not About Religion”

Videos
Counterterrorism
Gang Prevention
Islam and Law Enforcement
lapd
mike downing
muslim public affairs council
National Security Policy
public safety
radicalization
salam al-marayati
On August 26, 2026 By MPAC
In this clip from The MPAC Podcast, former LAPD Deputy Chief Mike Downing explains why radicalization mirrors street gang recruitment rather than religious theology. Drawing from his briefings with international security agencies, Downing breaks down the behavioral pipeline of indoctrination and mobilization - reminding us that violent extremists are criminals, regardless of the faith they claim. Watch full podcast episodes and policy breakdowns on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts. Links in the description! Subscribe to MPAC's channel: http://bit.ly/MPACYouTube Like MPAC on Facebook: http://fb.com/mpacnational Follow MPAC on Twitter: http://twitter.com/mpac_national Follow MPAC on Instagram: http://instagram.com/mpac_national Visit MPAC's website: http://mpac.org About the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) We improve public understanding and policies that impact American Muslims by engaging our government, media, and communities. Help us to continue this work by making a donation today: http://mpac.org/give.
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