FBI Agents Fired, Including Those Who Kneled During 2020 Protests
In a shocking move, over a dozen FBI agents have been fired, including some who made headlines in 2020 for peacefully kneeling with protesters during racial justice demonstrations. The firings come after an investigation revealed that these agents were not properly trained or equipped to handle civil unrest, and their actions may have even been seen as insubordination by former Attorney General Bill Barr.
According to the FBI Agents Association and news reports, the fired agents had been part of a group photographed kneeling during a racial justice protest in June 2020 following the police killing of George Floyd. The image, which went viral at the time, was seen as a powerful symbol of solidarity between law enforcement and the community.
However, an investigation into the incident revealed that the agents were not properly trained or equipped to handle civil unrest, according to sources close to the matter. "The agents' actions may have been seen as insubordination by former Attorney General Bill Barr," said a spokesperson for the FBI Agents Association. "We are disappointed in the outcome and will continue to advocate for our members."
Some of the fired agents had been reassigned earlier this year, in what were widely seen as demotions, according to The Washington Post. The firings have left many wondering what really went down behind the scenes of those historic protests, and whether politics played a role in the agents' ultimate downfall.
The investigation into the incident was led by the FBI's Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), which is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct within the agency. According to sources, the OPR found that the agents had not followed proper protocols during the protest, and their actions may have compromised the safety of both protesters and law enforcement.
The firings come at a time when the FBI is already facing scrutiny over its handling of civil unrest and protests. In June 2020, then-Attorney General Bill Barr issued a memo directing federal agents to use more aggressive tactics against protesters, which was widely criticized by civil rights groups and lawmakers.
"We are deeply disappointed in the outcome," said a spokesperson for the FBI Agents Association. "We will continue to advocate for our members and work to ensure that they receive fair treatment."
The firings have also raised questions about the role of politics in the agency's decision-making process. Some critics argue that the firings were motivated by politics, rather than a genuine concern for public safety.
"The firings are a clear example of how politics can interfere with law enforcement," said a spokesperson for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). "We will continue to monitor the situation and advocate for the rights of protesters and law enforcement alike."
The FBI has declined to comment on the specifics of the investigation or the firings, citing an ongoing review process. However, in a statement, the agency acknowledged that the firings were part of a broader effort to hold agents accountable for their actions.
"The FBI is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism," said the statement. "We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our agents are properly trained and equipped to handle civil unrest and other complex situations."
As the investigation continues, many are left wondering what really went down behind the scenes of those historic protests. One thing is clear: the firings have sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and raised important questions about the role of politics in policing.
In related news, former FBI Director James Comey was indicted on criminal charges stemming from 2020, according to reports. However, it is unclear at this time whether the indictment is connected to the firings of the FBI agents.
This story was compiled from reports by NPR News and BREAKING: NPR News.
