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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Alex Woodward

Kash Patel forced to defend FBI hiring standards on bestiality during Senate hearing

  • FBI Director Kash Patel defended updated agency hiring practices during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing following intense questioning from lawmakers.
  • Patel clarified that revised policies regarding bestiality are designed to protect human trafficking victims forced into such acts, asserting voluntary offenders remain disqualified.
  • The hiring policy changes come amid an apparent staffing crisis at the bureau, which lost more than 1,000 special agents in 2025 following a purge of staff.
  • Lawmakers, including Republican Senator John Kennedy, criticized the policy language and raised concerns about the impact on the agency's credibility.
  • Patel also faced scrutiny regarding Congressional investigations into his alleged misuse of taxpayer funds for luxury travel and personal perks.

IN FULL

Bestiality takes over Kash Patel’s testimony as Senators zero in on new rules for applicants

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