FBI Fires Reinstated Whistleblower for Talking to Media

The FBI has fired agent Steve Friend, a former whistleblower, for "unprofessional conduct" and "poor judgment." This comes just months after he was reinstated to his job. Friend was removed after giving unauthorized interviews to media outlets. The FBI stated this showed a lack of professionalism. He first came to public attention in 2022. Friend raised internal concerns about how the FBI classified some cases related to the January 6th U.S. Capitol riot. He also objected to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for agents. Those actions led to his suspension and security clearance removal. However, a review board later reinstated him in late 2023. His recent termination is final. The FBI confirmed he has now been officially separated from the agency.