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Rebecca Rubin, wanted by the FBI for allegedly setting fires in the name of the environment, is in the public spotlight again—this time because she shares her name with a new American Girl.
The most recent doll to be released by the American Girl company was named Rebecca because the moniker was popular in New York at the turn of the century, the setting for her character. Coupling Rebecca with Rubin resulted in an easy to pronounce alliteration the proved to be the most attractive appellation, Julie Parks, an American Girl spokeswoman, told The New York Times. The company was unaware that the doll shared its name with a suspected eco-terrorist until a week ago, reported the article.
Crimes committed by the flesh-and-blood Rubin were purportedly made on behalf of the Part of the Earth Liberation Front (ELF) or the Animal Liberation Front (ALF), two groups that have a reputation for taking drastic and illegal measures to protect the environment and animals. She has been on the run since 2006. There is currently a $50,000 reward for the real-life Rubin, who is suspected of residing in Canada, where she was born. (The doll costs $95 and can be found in an American Girl store near you.)
Any attention may be good attention in this case. As little girls across the country ask their mommies for the newest addition to the American Girl collection, the FBI is hoping that one of its most wanted will materialize so she can be brought to justice.
Eco-terrorism is still considered by federal officials to be the number one terrorism threat in the country, according to an article published last year on Fox.com. So far, no one has been hurt in the crimes the groups have taken credit for, which include arson, bombing, vandalism, and harassment. More than 10 people were prosecuted and sentenced for ELF and ALF actions in 2007, The New York Times reported last year.
Rubin, the person, is considered “armed and dangerous.” Rubin, the doll, is armed, too—with challah bread (sold separately).