The acting deputy attorney general has accused FBI leadership of 'insubordination' for not identifying a 'core team' of bureau employees who worked on January 6 investigations. In a memo obtained, the deputy attorney general assured that rank-and-file agents who followed orders ethically will not face termination unless they acted with corrupt intent.
The memo, sent by acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, stated that FBI employees who acted ethically in the January 6 investigations are not at risk of termination. However, those who acted with corrupt or partisan intent may face consequences, including termination.
Last week, Bove instructed the FBI to provide information on all current and former employees involved in January 6 investigations. Despite initial resistance, the bureau handed over details of over 5,000 agents and employees involved in the Capitol riot investigations.
FBI Agents Association President Natalie Bara welcomed Bove's attempt to reassure agents but sought further clarification on the next steps. Bove emphasized the need to address any politicization within the Bureau and ensure accountability for those who defied orders or acted with corrupt intent.
The Justice Department's recent actions have included pushing out employees perceived as 'weaponizing' law enforcement, leading to firings and reassignments of agents and prosecutors. The department has also reassigned high-level career positions in divisions handling international affairs and national security.
