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FBI Investigated New York Times Reporter Over Article on Director's Girlfriend
The FBI launched an inquiry into New York Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson following her story on FBI Director Kash Patel's use of agency resources for his girlfriend's security. The investigation examined potential stalking law violations but did not result in charges. Times executive editor Joseph Kahn condemned the action as a violation of First Amendment rights.
Apr 23, 6:46 AM·2m read105 sources
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The FBI investigated New York Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson after she published an article alleging that FBI Director Kash Patel used agency resources to provide protection and transportation for his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins. The inquiry, which began in March, involved agents searching databases for information on Williamson and considering whether her reporting violated federal stalking laws.
Ultimately, the Justice Department determined there was no legal basis to pursue charges. Patel addressed the matter during a Wednesday appearance on Fox News, stating that Williamson's article led to a direct threat against Wilkins. He noted that an individual had been charged and arrested for making threats, including a statement about using a rifle against Wilkins, which the suspect linked to the Times reporting.
Patel emphasized the need to protect those threatened, including his loved ones and other Americans.
February 28 article detailed Patel's assignment of four FBI agents to provide full-time protection for Wilkins, a country singer. The piece reported that these agents transported her to appearances in Britain, Illinois, and Nashville. The FBI, in a statement, said agents interviewed Wilkins in connection with a death threat in Boston that referenced Williamson's article, and expressed concerns about aggressive reporting techniques resembling stalking, though no further action was taken against Williamson.
>"The FBI’s attempt to criminalize routine reporting is a blatant violation of Elizabeth’s First Amendment rights and another attempt by this administration to prevent journalists from scrutinizing its actions. It’s alarming. It’s unconstitutional. He also mentioned in an internal memo that the incident marked an escalation in tactics to chill reporting unflattering to the administration.
The FBI did not respond to requests for additional comment. Seth Stern, director of advocacy for the Freedom of the Press Foundation, stated that using the agency to investigate a reporter appeared retaliatory, especially given the Justice Department's conclusion that the probe lacked merit.
