Why I Am Leaving the F.B.I.
And, as the former director, James Comey, would frequently say in underscoring the importance of high standards, whether
a jury believes an agent’s testimony depends on whether it has faith in the bureau’s honesty and independence.
While it would be disingenuous to claim that those two are not at least guilty of exercising incredibly poor judgment, it would be
equally disingenuous for anyone who really knows the modern-day bureau to insinuate that the organization is plotting from within.
But every statement of fact included in an affidavit for foreign intelligence collection must withstand the scrutiny
of at least 10 people in the Department of Justice hierarchy before it is reviewed by an independent court
When an agent working to stop a terrorist plot attempts to recruit an informant, the agent’s success in gathering
critical intelligence depends on the informant’s belief that the agent is credible and trustworthy.
After more than a decade of service, which included investigating terrorism, working to rescue kidnapping victims overseas
and being special assistant to the director, I am reluctantly turning in my badge and leaving an organization I love.
Because they are not infallible, the bureau is subject to a robust system of checks
and balances, including its internal affairs division, the Department of Justice inspector general, congressional committees and the courts.
After 21 weeks of intensive training, my class swore an oath
and became federal agents entrusted with the solemn duty of protecting Americans and upholding the Constitution.
