FBI Director Mueller's Response to the Inspector General Report on the "Department of Justice's Actions In Connection with the Search for Absent Texas Legislators"

Washington, DC - FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III issued the following statement regarding the Inspector General's report on the "Department of Justice's Action In Connection with the Search for Absent Texas Legislators":

"As always, we appreciate the Inspector General's efforts. The report appears to be a thorough and well-considered summary and analysis of the events, and we will carefully review its findings and recommendations.

"The IG found that one FBI employee assisted his colleagues from the Texas Department of Public Safety in making phone calls to one of the legislators who was his friend. While the IG believes that it would have been the better course to decline the request for assistance, the IG report finds no inappropriate motive on the employee's part and concludes that 'we do not believe he committed misconduct or violated any FBI policy.'

"We agree with the report's recommendation that we examine the guidance provided to Special Agents. As we continue to increase our cooperation and coordination with our state and local partners, we will work to ensure that all FBI personnel exercise the best possible discretion in responding to requests from their law enforcement colleagues. We look forward to working with the Inspector General on this matter."