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FBI Files $250 M Defamation Suit Over Nonexistent Probe

5/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The FBI’s insider-threats unit opened a criminal investigation into Atlantic reporter Sarah Fitzpatrick, then announced the probe does not exist.
FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million defamation suit against Fitzpatrick and The Atlantic, which analysts deem weak and likely to fail, echoing recent Trump-administration actions against news outlets.
Some FBI agents on the case said they felt uncomfortable, fearing job loss if they refused to pursue the investigation.

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Story summary

The FBI’s insider-threats unit opened a criminal investigation into Atlantic reporter Sarah Fitzpatrick, then announced the probe does not exist.
FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million defamation suit against Fitzpatrick and The Atlantic, which analysts deem weak and likely to fail, echoing recent Trump-administration actions against news outlets.
Some FBI agents on the case said they felt uncomfortable, fearing job loss if they refused to pursue the investigation.