Reports show FEMA contractors were asked to “stand down” after security threats

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – An inspection agency working as a contractor for the Federal Emergency Management Agency has ordered its employees in western North Carolina to stop weekend inspections and return to hotels, WBTV has confirmed.

On Sunday evening, The Washington Post first reported reports of threats against FEMA member workers in Rutherford County. WBTV has independently confirmed that reporting came from sources with direct knowledge of the threats.

The news comes after FEMA workers across the Hurricane Helene disaster area in western North Carolina were the target of misinformation and rumors about the federal government's recovery efforts in the region.

Messages reviewed by WBTV that were sent to employees of a contract agency that works with FEMA for inspections appear to show an impact area in western North Carolina.

“Effective immediately, disaster-wide – stop inspections today and return to your hotels,” said an alert from Vanguard Inspection Services on Saturday. “FEMA received word that Title 10 (active military unit deployed in NC) had encountered some trucks with militia units saying they were on the hunt for FEMA personnel.”

Vanguard could not immediately be reached for comment.

In a second message late Sunday evening, the company asked employees to continue their standstill throughout Monday until further notice.

Earlier Sunday morning, the Ashe County Sheriff's Office confirmed threats against FEMA employees and contractors in Western North Carolina in a Facebook post, but said there had been no reports in Ashe County.

“We wanted to address the current issues circulating in Ashe County related to FEMA,” wrote Sheriff B. Phil Howell. “In response, they were here to help and support those in need. There have recently been threats against them in the mountainous region. This has not happened in Ashe County or surrounding counties. Out of an abundance of caution, they have paused their process while they assess the threats.”

Also on Sunday, a FEMA spokesman confirmed some “operational adjustments” due to safety issues in western North Carolina, but did not confirm any threats.

“FEMA continues to support the communities affected by Helene and help survivors apply for assistance,” a spokesperson wrote.

“For the safety of our dedicated employees and the disaster survivors we serve, FEMA has made some operational adjustments. Disaster Recovery Centers will continue to operate as planned, survivors will continue to sign up for assistance, and we will continue to help North Carolinians recover.”

Copyright 2024 WBTV. All rights reserved.