In numerous writings and interviews in the late 1990s and early 2000s , Johnson deemphasized the threat stemming from terrorism . In 1998 , he commented on Osama bin Laden , saying that he was possessed by " hatred and craziness . " If left unanswered , " he would continue to terrorize Americans around the world . He has no compunction about killing women and children . He 's a complete egalitarian in his murderous attitude . " In later interviews ( 1999 , 2000 ) , Johnson said Americans exaggerated the threats stemming from bin Laden . In July 2001 , two months before the September 11 attacks , Johnson wrote a '' New York Times '' op-ed entitled , " The Declining Terrorist Threat , " arguing that " terrorism is not the biggest security challenge confronting the United States , and it should not be portrayed that way . " In 2003 , Johnson said that while he did not condone torture , he suggested that a " sleep deprivation and reward system " might be useful for getting information from Khalid Sheikh Mohammed
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Larry C. Johnson