FBI Calls “Progressive’s” InfraGard Story “Patently False,” Author Responds

[marmar]

FBI Calls “Progressive’s” InfraGard Story “Patently False,” Author Responds

By Matthew Rothschild, March 1, 2008



I’ve got the FBI on my case.

Three weeks ago The Progressive published my story on InfraGard, a secretive but large group of business executives that works hand in glove with the FBI.

The article was called “The FBI Deputizes Business.” and we posted it February 8 on our website, and then on the cover of The Progressive’s March issue.

In the story, I reported on a whistleblower, himself a member of InfraGard, who told me that InfraGard members had been given permission by the FBI and Homeland Security to “shoot to kill” in the event of martial law.

Well, on February 15, the FBI issued a press release denouncing the article.

The FBI’s Cyber Division Assistant Director Shawn Henry said, “The article’s claims are patently false.”

First, Henry nitpicked the headline of the article, saying: “The title, however catchy, is a complete fabrication.” Is it really? FBI Director Mueller himself called InfraGard members “partners in our mission to protect America,” adding that they were his “first line of defense.”

As to the most serious claim, Henry said that “InfraGard members have no extraordinary powers and have no greater right to ‘shoot to kill’ than other civilians.”

“No greater right”? That’s odd language, isn’t it? ......(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.progressive.org/mag_wx030108

[malaise]

1. They're privatizing security more and more

Is it fascism yet?

[ensho]

2. thanks for posting this again - I posted it when it came out and

tried to drum up interest in it. a number replied and we agreed it was sinister.

this is important.