Who Are the Agents Involved?
The lawsuit was filed by former acting FBI Director Brian Driscoll, Steven Jensen (former assistant director in charge of the Washington field office), and Spencer Evans (former special agent in charge of the Las Vegas field office). Driscoll was dismissed last month and had resisted directives related to January 6 investigations.
What Are the Allegations?
The suit alleges Patel admitted he and Driscoll could not prevent the firings because “the FBI tried to put the President in jail and he hasn’t forgotten.” Patel has stated publicly that agents involved in the “weaponisation” of the FBI would be removed.
The agents claim their firings violated their First Amendment rights to free speech and association, as well as their Fifth Amendment right to due process.
What Does the Lawsuit Seek?
Filed in federal court in Washington DC, the suit demands reinstatement of the agents with back pay. Defendants include Patel, Bondi, the FBI, the Department of Justice, and the Executive Office of the President.
Who Represents the Agents?
The agents are represented by Abbe Lowell, a prominent lawyer also representing Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook in a related legal battle against the Trump administration.