FBI Agents Claim Unlawful Dismissal for De-escalation Tactics Amid Protests

Twelve former FBI agents have filed a lawsuit against senior FBI and Justice Department officials, alleging they were unlawfully terminated for kneeling during the George Floyd protests in 2020. The lawsuit claims the terminations were politically motivated and influenced by the Trump administration. It highlights internal disagreements and alleged retribution within the agency.

Twelve former FBI agents have taken legal action against senior leaders of the FBI and Justice Department, filing a lawsuit on Monday. They claim they were wrongfully dismissed for kneeling during the 2020 racial justice protests after George Floyd's death, accusing the termination of being politically driven.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, suggests that these terminations were orchestrated under the Trump administration's orders, with FBI Director Kash Patel aiming to purge them post-confirmation. This legal move follows a prior lawsuit by senior FBI officials alleging unjust firings in a 'campaign of retribution.'

The former agents' actions, which were initially aimed at de-escalating tensions amid protests, were scrutinized by senior FBI officials. Despite internal investigations indicating no political motives, the agents were removed on charges of unprofessional conduct. This case epitomizes alleged political manipulation within federal law enforcement ranks.

(With inputs from agencies.)