Twelve former FBI agents have filed a lawsuit against the Bureau, alleging unlawful dismissal after they took a knee during racial justice protests in Washington, D.C., in June 2020. Their actions were a response to the national unrest following George Floyd’s death, where a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck. The agents, who collectively boast nearly 200 years of experience, claim they were not provided proper crowd control training or protective equipment during these volatile events.
Details of the Lawsuit
Filed in federal court in Washington, the lawsuit alleges the agents intended to de-escalate a potentially volatile situation, not to demonstrate any political allegiance. They assert that their actions were mischaracterized as politically motivated, leading to their termination by the new FBI Director, Kash Patel.
The lawsuit, represented by former Justice Department prosecutor Mary Dohrmann, states that the agents were cornered during protests and aimed to prevent further violence. It claims that their dismissal was a form of retaliation rather than a justified decision based on their conduct.
Allegations Against FBI Leadership
- The agents, previously recognized for their service, lost their jobs shortly after the new FBI leadership took over.
- Patel’s letters to the agents cited “unprofessional conduct” and “lack of impartiality”, accusing them of aligning with political movements.
- The Justice Department’s inspector general found no misconduct related to the kneeling incident, contradicting the FBI’s actions.
The plaintiffs are seeking reinstatement to their positions and back pay, claiming their First Amendment rights to free association were violated. They argue that their firing circumvented the standard procedures for FBI misconduct investigations.
Impact of Dismissals
The sudden separation of these agents has hindered critical operations, including evidence gathering in the aftermath of the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The lawsuit highlights concerns about the handling of politically sensitive matters within the FBI and potential misuse of authority.
As the case unfolds, the FBI has opted not to comment on pending litigation, leaving the allegations unresolved in the public eye.
