Jan 22, 2019

Shutdown slows FBI's counterterrorism and gang investigations

J. Edgar Hoover FBI building

Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty Images

The FBI Agents Association released a 72-page report Tuesday regarding the partial government shutdown's effect on the agency, with one agent saying it "has eliminated any ability to operate."

The big picture: The FBI has had to cancel training and halt operations. The U.S. Attorney's Office is unable to issue grand jury subpoenas. The association already sent a petition to the White House and congressional leaders urging them to come to an agreement to fund the FBI immediately, saying that not funding the agency is a threat to national security.

What they're saying:

  • "FBI offices … are having investigations stalled, to include delayed forensic interviews of child victims and delaying grand jury indictments on homicides and child sexual assault prosecutions."
  • "We have lost several sources who have worked for months, and years, to penetrate groups and target subjects."
  • The central region is operating a long-term MS-13 investigation without a translator. "We have indicted 23 MS-13 gang members. … Since the shutdown, I have not had a Spanish speaker in the Division."
  • "Our mechanics are cannibalizing out of service vehicles in an effort to replace flat tires."

Go deeper: All the ways Americans are feeling the effects of the shutdown

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