FBI Settles $22M Sexual Discrimination Lawsuit
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has agreed to pay over $22M to settle claims made by 34 female recruits that they were discriminated against and harassed during their time at the FBI academy in Quantico, Virginia....
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Facts
- The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has agreed to pay over $22M to settle claims made by 34 female recruits that they were discriminated against and harassed during their time at the FBI academy in Quantico, Virginia.[1]
- According to the lawsuit first filed in 2019, the female recruits, in contrast to their male peers, were 'excessively targeted for correction and dismissal in tactical situations for perceived lack of judgment.'[2]
- One woman claimed she was told to 'smile more' and subjected to multiple sexual advances, while another claimed that an instructor would stare at her chest, 'sometimes while licking his lips.'[3]
- The women also alleged that their instructors had told them to take contraception to 'control their moods' and also falsely accused them of infidelity.[4]
- The lawsuit further claimed that female new agent trainees were dismissed from the program despite passing the required tests, while their male counterparts continued.[1]
- Alongside the over $22M payout, which, if approved by a federal judge, will be one of the FBI's largest ever, the victims will be allowed to reattend the academy. If they pass, they'll be given 'guaranteed placement' at one of their top three preferred field offices.[5]
Sources: [1]The Hill, [2]NBC, [3]Voice of America, [4]Washington Examiner and [5]Associated Press.
Narratives
- Left narrative, as provided by Vice. This settlement is not surprising, especially given that the Justice Department came to the same conclusion in a separate report two years ago. Hopefully, however, these women will be fairly compensated and offered a shot at reattending the academy — no woman should ever have to endure such egregious violations in the future.
- Right narrative, as provided by New York Post. While no one in their right mind would condone what was reported in this lawsuit, stories like this should not prompt further calls for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The FBI has already lowered its standards regarding physical fitness, illicit drug use, mental health, and work experience. Everyone should be given a fair shot, but only the best of the best should become agents — a minimum standard must be met.
