The rot in Washington, D.C. runs deep. And now is the time for action.
That’s why the FBI canned an agent for leaking this critical information.
Reinstated Whistleblower Dismissed by FBI
Former FBI agent Steve Friend, a prominent whistleblower on issues from the COVID era and January 6 investigations who was reinstated under the Trump administration, has been terminated for violations of bureau policy.
The FBI cited “unprofessional conduct and poor judgment” in dismissing Friend, according to a termination letter shared on X by New York Post columnist Miranda Devine.
An FBI source confirmed the action but declined further comment, noting it as a personnel matter.
The letter detailed that Friend “participated in unauthorized interactions with the media, publicly disseminated media sources, and commented publicly on FBI matters and ongoing FBI investigations.”
In November, the bureau noted, Friend “disseminated media sources and photographs identifying an alleged subject and discussed the alleged subject on your podcast, despite the lack of credible, verifiable evidence necessary to publicly identify the subject.”
A Swift Return and Departure
Friend was originally suspended in August 2022 and resigned in February 2023 amid his whistleblower activities, only to be reinstated in the fall following President Trump’s return to office.
When contacted by Fox News Digital, Friend described the move as retaliation orchestrated by FBI Director Kash Patel.
Legal Representation Ends Amid Warnings
Friend’s termination followed closely after his lawyers at Empower Oversight Whistleblowers & Research ended their representation on December 5.
The nonprofit informed Friend in a letter—shared on X by former FBI agent Kyle Seraphin—that he had disregarded their guidance against public comments on FBI matters, which could invite “further adverse administrative action” from the bureau.
“In light of your apparent unwillingness to follow the free professional advice we have given you, we are even more convinced that our previously expressed inability to represent you regarding any legal matters other than your reinstatement was warranted,” the nonprofit wrote.
“We are no longer willing or able to expend further time and resources representing your interests or providing counsel moving forward.”
