Twelve former FBI agents have initiated legal proceedings against the bureau, claiming their dismissals constituted unlawful termination directly linked to their decision to kneel during a racial justice demonstration in Washington D.C. in June 2020. The lawsuit, filed in the District of Columbia, names FBI Director Kash Patel as a primary defendant.
The plaintiffs detail how they were deployed to manage escalating tensions in the capital on June 4, 2020, following the police killing of George Floyd. Confronted by what they describe as a volatile situation for which they were inadequately prepared, the agents made a unanimous tactical decision to adopt the kneeling gesture synonymous with the protests. They contend this action successfully de-escalated potential violence and mirrored community outreach practices used by law enforcement nationwide during that period of civil unrest.
Despite receiving initial approvals from both FBI and Department of Justice leadership following internal reviews of their conduct, termination notices citing ‘lack of impartiality’ were issued over five years later. The former agents allege this delayed disciplinary action occurred under Director Patel’s administration, which they characterize as conducting a systematic purge of personnel perceived as disloyal to then-President Donald Trump.
The lawsuit seeks reinstatement to their positions with full back pay and benefits. This case follows similar litigation from other former FBI officials, including ex-acting director Brian Driscoll, who likewise allege politically motivated dismissals. The White House has recently reiterated its support for Director Patel, calling him ‘a critical member of the president’s team’ working to ‘restore integrity to the FBI.’ The bureau has declined to comment on ongoing litigation.