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A Review of the FBI's Response to John Roberts' Statements on 60 Minutes

February 2003
Office of the Inspector General


ATTACHMENT 4

  U.S. Department of Justice
Federal Bureau of Investigation

  Washington. D. C. 20535-0001
October 30, 2002

Honorable Glenn A. Fine
Inspector General
Department of Justice
Washington, D.C.

Dear Mr. Fine:

On October 27, 2002, John Roberts, a Unit Chief in our Office of Professional Responsibility appeared in a broadcast of the CBS News program "60 Minutes." During the broadcast, Unit Chief Roberts was interviewed regarding disparate disciplinary treatment for different levels of FBI employees. A full transcript of his comments is attached; however, he is quoted as saying that:

"I don't know of another person in the FBI who has done the internal investigations that I have and seen what I have and that knows what has occurred and what has been glossed over and what has, frankly, just disappeared, just vaporized, and no one disciplined for it."

"I think the double standard of discipline will continue no matter who comes in, no matter who tries to change. You--you have a certain--certain group that--that will continue to protect itself. That's just how it is."

"Depends on who you are. If you're in the senior executive level, it may not hurt you. You will be promoted."

Other comments later in the interview (also attached) indicate his lack of confidence in the ability of this office to address these issues. There is an implication that improprieties have continued since September 11, 2001. Further, these allegations relate to your draft report concerning an alleged double standard of discipline in the FBI.

These remarks raise serious issues of concern to us. Given the gravity of his remarks, and his lack of confidence in this office to address these issues, we have directed Unit Chief Roberts to contact your office to provide additional details. Please contact me if I can be of further assistance in this matter.

 Sincerely yours,

[signed]

Robert J. Jordan
Assistant Director
Office of Professional
Responsibility

Enclosure