Tag: CIA

John Kiriakou, a retired CIA agent, was recently released from prison after blowing the whistle on the George W. Bush administration’s torture program. He talks exclusively to Democracy Now! without regrets.

Does more secrecy breed more impunity? The Jeffrey Sterling case brought to the surface more serious questions about Operation Merlin and indicates that the CIA program was more "shoddy and irresponsible" than Risen’s book reported.

Even though his actions didn't harm or kill any people, Jeffrey Sterling, former CIA case officer, faces a maximum sentence of 100 years in prison and a fine of up to $2.25 million. His sentencing is scheduled for April 24.

The CIA is on a quest to gain more respect. Is the agency seeking a very harsh prison sentence for Jeffrey Sterling to serve as a warning to others?

In 2009, former CIA Director Leon Panetta ordered the CIA to conduct its own investigation into documents involving torture. This review found that the CIA had repeatedly overstated the value of intelligence gained through torture.

When will this government understand that there is a direct correlation between military hubris and terrorism? When will it stop creating its own enemies?

A lot of smoke will be blowing through the U.S. District Court in Alexandria during the next few weeks as the Obama administration and the CIA hierarchy are clearly eager to see Jeffrey Sterling punished in a big way.

Senator Feinstein sent a letter to President Obama with her recommendations to prevent the CIA from committing acts of torture. But are her good intentions enough prevent the CIA from committing further human rights violations?

Revelations from brave whistleblowers are essential for the informed consent of the governed. But the relentless prosecution of Sterling renders a key implicit message to other potential whistleblowers.