Today Mueller of the FBI testified before a Congressional hearing, primarily devoted to the FBI budget for the upcoming fiscal year. However, questions veered to other matter, such as wiretaps and surveillance. Mueller stated that when the FBI requests information by way of “security letters”, it was “relatively common” to get more information than requested. He blamed that on the third party because it is far easier for them to hand over the entire file rather than a time specific set of email correspondence. However, Mueller stated that it is far less of a problem when it comes to a FISA order.
When asked if anyone noticed the holders of the accounts that the information had been collected? The question referred to the accounts that were “over collected”, not specific to the investigation. Mueller answered, “No.”
A committee member stated that in a New York Times article last month reported that the FBI inadvertantly received the email messages on an entire network. Mueller responded, “I understand you concern in that regard.”
When asked how many wiretaps were dropped because of unpaid bills? Two instances where in 2002 that occurred, but the investigation was not impaired.
When confronted with terrorist watch list reporting it was stated that the FBI was not always informing the AG of people who should be removed from the watchlist. “Some delay in getting that, but I believe that has been fixed at this juncture.”
The follow-up statement from the hearing brought up the issue of mistaken identitiess. In recent years there have been cases of mistaken identities, several cases have been critical. What is the FBI doing about that? “The guidance is that a case not be discussed.” Mueller continued to say, ”With regard to the number of cases… a set of different circumstances. In Baltimore it was a fluid situation. The mistake with fingerprints out in Oregon, our examiner did not do the thorough investigation it should have done. Procedures have been put into place to make sure that it does not happen again, as much as possible.”
What is the agency doing to make certain some loud mouth does not loose bad information on the American people? “We do have an obligation to put out information as to innocence.” Mueller shares concern and said it was unfortunate that mistakes do happen. “We hope to do as thorough and as efficient an investigation as possible,” he said.
The budget came under question. Mueller explained the need to handle top secret in all offices. “Top secret” is having to be built into offices. Further questions are ongoing as to the proposed budget. It goes without saying that the director pushed for more funding to fight terrorism.
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