Directly Contacting the FBI: Process and Next Steps for Kavanaugh Background Investigation Witnesses

Introduction

Are you a witness considering directly contacting the FBI regarding the background investigation of Brett Kavanaugh? While it is tempting to reach out immediately, there are specific protocols and procedures in place that need to be followed. This article guides you through the process and discusses what the next steps might be for your information, based on the outlined procedures.

Can Witnesses Directly Contact the FBI?

Contrary to popular belief, witnesses cannot directly contact the FBI. While the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is headquartered in Washington D.C., they do not operate a 24/7 hotline for the public. Instead, the process involves a series of steps to ensure thorough and effective handling of the information provided.

The Process of Making a Call to the FBI

When a witness wants to provide information to the FBI concerning the background investigation of Brett Kavanaugh, the appropriate procedure is to call the local FBI office associated with a federal courthouse. This can be done through an online directory or by looking up “Federal Bureau of Investigation” in a phonebook. By calling the local office, the witness initiates the correct chain of communication.

Step 1: Initial Contact and Call Details

Upon making the call, an agent will take down the key details of the witness's claims over the phone. These details often include the witness’s name, contact information, the nature of the information to be provided, and any supporting evidence. Importantly, the information provided should be as comprehensive as possible to ensure thoroughness.

Step 2: Information Transfer to D.C.

The agent who answers the call will then forward the gathered information to the FBI’s Agent-in-Charge (AiC) responsible for the Kavanaugh accusations investigation. This ensures that the relevant and necessary information is directed to the appropriate person.

Step 3: Decision on Next Steps

The AiC will assess the provided information and decide on the next course of action. General steps include scheduling an in-person interview to gather more detailed information or performing additional research. The decision largely depends on the uniqueness and relevance of the information provided.

Step 4: Potential Follow-Up Actions

Depending on the nature of the provided information:

Reiteration of Existing Claims: If the information reiterates claims already known to the AiC, it may not advance further beyond the initial phone call. Unique Evidence: If the information includes unique, specific evidence not previously considered, the AiC might prioritize the resource allocation. This could involve sending an agent to personally interview the witness, especially if further clarification or details are needed. Guided Interview: If the information inspires but is not immediately actionable, the AiC might send a list of specific questions to the local office that took the call, or conduct a follow-up phone interview to gather more detailed information.

Conclusion

The process for a witness to provide information to the FBI regarding the Brett Kavanaugh background investigation is methodical and hierarchical. While it may seem cumbersome, it ensures that all provided information is handled thoroughly and effectively. Understanding the process and the potential next steps can help witnesses provide valuable information more efficiently.