John Mark Dougan’s Intricate Web of Deception and Disinformation

John Mark Dougan, a former deputy sheriff from Palm Beach County, Florida, has transitioned from engaging in deceptive tactics within the United States to playing a significant role in Russia’s disinformation campaigns against the West. Over a decade ago, Dougan misled voters in Florida by impersonating a county commissioner via email and later leaked confidential information under the guise of a Russian tech worker. His exploits included deceiving an adviser to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office by posing as a fictional heiress, which led to the exposure of improper conduct within the department.

Dougan’s activities in the U.S. served as a prelude to his more concerning efforts from Moscow, where he has been granted political asylum. According to U.S. and European officials and various research groups, Dougan has created a network of over 160 fake news websites that mimic reputable news outlets in the United States, Britain, and France. Using artificial intelligence tools, he has populated these sites with thousands of articles, mixing real news events with fabricated stories intended to mislead readers and propagate Russian disinformation.

These efforts have had a significant reach, with nearly 8,000 citations across social media and more than 37 million views in 16 languages. Among the false narratives spread by Dougan’s network are claims about Ukraine’s president smuggling cocaine and the CIA working to undermine Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. Despite denying operating these sites, evidence suggests otherwise, and Dougan has been linked to the creation and operation of this extensive disinformation network.

Before fleeing to Russia in 2016 ahead of facing felony charges in Florida, Dougan had a controversial career in law enforcement and a history of clashing with superiors. In Russia, he has refashioned himself as a journalist, documenting his travels and appearing on state media. Dougan’s reporting from the Russian side of the front lines in Ukraine and his involvement in Russian propaganda efforts highlight his transformation into a tool of the Kremlin’s disinformation warfare.

Researchers and government officials warn that Dougan’s disinformation network could pose risks for upcoming elections worldwide, indicating the potential for an expanded scope of operations targeting democratic systems in Europe and other Western nations.