DHS comes through on vow to use lie detector test on staffers suspected of leaking intel
The Department of Homeland Security is taking a strong stance against leaks of internal agency information by using lie-detector tests on staffers. According to Fox News Digital, DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Tricia McLaughlin, stated that the department, under the leadership of Secretary Noem, is unapologetic about its efforts to root out leakers who undermine national security.
In a recent report by Politico, it was revealed that a lie detector test was administered to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Chief Cameron Hamilton in March following a meeting between DHS and an advisor to President Donald Trump, Corey Lewandowski. The test ultimately cleared Hamilton, but the department is determined to prosecute any leakers to the fullest extent of the law.
The use of polygraph tests at intelligence and national security agencies is not new, with agencies like the FBI, CIA, and ATF using them as part of background and security checks for potential agents. The FBI has increasingly used lie-detector tests on staffers who handle sensitive information since the arrest of former agent Robert Hanssen for spying for Russia in 2001.
In response to leaks of information concerning national security, the Pentagon announced in March that it would be launching an investigation that could include polygraph tests for employees. DHS has also vowed to use polygraph tests to weed out staffers who leak information on immigration raids, citing the department as a national security agency.
Secretary Noem issued a directive in February requiring polygraph tests administered by DHS to include a question about unauthorized communication with media outlets and nonprofits. The department already uses polygraph exams during the hiring process of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and agents to ensure suitability for employment and in support of internal and counterintelligence investigations.
Border czar Tom Homan has speculated that leaks tipped off illegal immigrants to ICE raids in Colorado and California, allowing gang members to evade arrest. The department is taking a strong stance against leaks and is committed to using lie-detector tests to identify and prosecute any individuals who compromise national security.
The efforts of the Department of Homeland Security to prevent leaks and protect national security are crucial in maintaining the safety and integrity of the country. By using lie-detector tests and holding individuals accountable for their actions, the department is sending a clear message that leaking sensitive information will not be tolerated.
