Former FBI officials decry bureau management
By Chris Strohm
cstrohm@govexec.com
Former FBI employees alleged Wednesday that national security and counterterrorism investigations have been placed at risk by bureau managers who are more interested in protecting themselves and covering up mistakes than pursuing cases.
A group of national security whistleblowers and family members of Sept. 11 victims held a press conference Wednesday to demand that the government stop silencing employees who expose wrongdoing. The group also called on Congress to hold hearings to examine retaliatory actions against whistleblowers.
Former FBI agent Mike German defended the work of front-line agents, but said counterterrorism investigations that he was part of were hampered by managers.
"FBI agents are the most honest, intelligent, capable and dedicated employees in government, and they risk everything to protect our national security," said German, who choked up with emotion. "But unfortunately, too much of their talent is wasted by mismanagement."
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