Ian Michael Elliott works for Knight Division Tactical, a private security outfit paid millions by the USDA to patrol national forests and grasslands.
The company landed $1.8 million in contracts for 2024 and $2.1 million for 2025, including a stint in Eureka, California, from July to October 2025.
In September 2025, a Knight Division executive posted a photo of Elliott and other staff waving the company flag during west coast crisis relief. Elliott himself left a glowing five-star review for the firm online. After The Guardian started asking questions, the executive quickly deleted the post.
Knight Division Tactical, incorporated in Wyoming in 2023 and led by co-founders Michael Schulz and Matthew McCalla, recruits for domestic and international assignments with competitive pay. Schulz and McCalla have described the company as upholding Christian virtues in public statements.
The USDA stated that contractors handle their own hiring, background checks, and personnel oversight independently of the agency.
Elliott is tied to Patriot Front, a group that pushes national pride and physical training. He runs Patria Gloria, a grappling team linked to the group, and has taken part in their self-defense and discipline sessions. Reports show he’s represented Patriot Front at martial arts events and joined pro-life rallies like the March for Life in Washington, D.C.
Media coverage has highlighted Elliott's involvement in Patriot Front activities, including his role providing security for founder Thomas Rousseau. The group organizes fitness and training initiatives, often through active club networks that encourage young men to build strength and community.
Knight Division Tactical did not respond to requests for comment on Elliott's employment.