FBI Director Announces Charlene B. Thornton as New Assistant Director for the Inspection Division

Washington, D.C. - FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III, has named Charlene B. Thornton, currently serving as Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Division, to be the Assistant Director for the Inspection Division.

In her new position, Ms. Thornton will focus on strengthening FBI inspection standards and implementing “best practices” throughout the FBI. In addition to overseeing internal investigations of employee misconduct, Ms. Thornton will evaluate the FBI’s investigative, financial, and administrative programs to ensure their economic value and compliance with FBI objectives, governing laws, rules, regulations, and policies.

Director Mueller said, “The FBI is committed to ensuring accountability and maintaining high standards at all levels of the FBI. Ms. Thornton has upheld these ideals throughout her career. Her prior leadership experience, both in the Inspection Division and in the field, will make her an invaluable addition to the team.”

Ms. Thornton entered on duty with the FBI in 1979 and first served in the Indianapolis field office. Since then, she has served in the Los Angeles, Baltimore, Honolulu, Birmingham, and Phoenix Field Offices. Ms. Thornton has investigated a variety of cases, involving criminal matters, counterterrorism, drugs, and civil rights. Prior to her appointment as Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Division, Ms. Thornton served as Special Agent in Charge of the Birmingham Division, as an Inspector in the Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters, and as Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Honolulu Division.

Ms. Thornton grew up in Wisconsin and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Marion College in 1976. She earned a Juris Doctorate degree, with honors, from Indiana University School of Law, Indianapolis, in 1979, and a Masters of Law degree from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1983. Currently, Ms. Thornton is a member of the Indiana Bar Association and the International Association of Chiefs of Police and serves on the Special Agents Mutual Benefit Association Board of Directors.