The Department of Justice Inspector General, Michael Horowitz, released a report on the FBI’s use of confidential human sources (CHSs) leading up to and during the January 6th Capitol riot. The report reveals the presence of 26 CHSs within the crowd on that day, a significantly higher number than previously known. However, the report clarifies that only three of these individuals were specifically instructed by the FBI to be present at the events. These three individuals were compensated for their time, as is standard practice when CHSs are directed to attend specific events by the Bureau. Furthermore, the report emphasizes that no CHS was authorized or directed by the FBI to engage in any illegal activity, including entering the Capitol building or restricted areas, or inciting others to commit unlawful acts.
The report details the activities of the three FBI-assigned CHSs. One of these individuals entered the Capitol building itself, while the remaining two entered the restricted area surrounding the Capitol grounds. The report underscores that these actions were not sanctioned by the FBI. For the remaining 23 CHSs, their presence at the Capitol on January 6th was self-directed, meaning they were not acting under instruction from the FBI. Among this group, three entered the Capitol building and 11 entered restricted areas. Again, the Inspector General’s report emphasizes that none of these actions were authorized or encouraged by the FBI.
The report emphasizes that the FBI’s role in the events of January 6th was relatively minor, primarily due to the Department of Homeland Security’s assessment of the event’s security level. Despite this limited role, the report concludes that the steps taken by the FBI in preparation for January 6th were both significant and appropriate. The report provides additional context regarding the FBI’s intelligence collection efforts and their handling of CHSs in the leadup to the January 6th event.
The key takeaway from the Inspector General’s report is the clear distinction between the three CHSs assigned by the FBI to be present at the events of January 6th and the 23 CHSs who were present of their own volition. The report explicitly states that none of the CHSs, regardless of whether they were assigned by the FBI or present independently, were authorized or directed by the Bureau to engage in any illegal activities. This includes entering the Capitol building, entering restricted areas, or inciting others to commit illegal acts.
The findings of the report contribute significantly to the ongoing investigation and understanding of the events of January 6th. The information regarding the presence and actions of CHSs provides a more nuanced perspective on the events of that day. The report’s emphasis on the FBI’s lack of involvement in any unlawful activity undertaken by the CHSs is crucial for accurately assessing the Bureau’s role in the events.
This comprehensive report offers valuable insight into the FBI’s activities related to the January 6th events. By distinguishing between the assigned and unassigned CHSs, and by explicitly stating the FBI’s non-involvement in any illegal activities, the report provides a clearer picture of the complexities surrounding the events of that day. This information is essential for a thorough understanding of the security failures and subsequent investigations related to January 6th. The report also clarifies the FBI’s preparations and responses, providing further context to the broader investigation into the events leading up to and including the Capitol riot.
