The FBI has defended Director Kash Patel after videos were posted online showing him drinking beer and celebrating with the United States ice hockey team in Milan. The footage, which appeared after the team's gold medal win on 22 February, has sparked a debate over Patel's use of a government jet for the trip. Critics have questioned the optics of the celebration while the Bureau remains engaged in a high-profile manhunt for Nancy Guthrie.
Taxpayers are reportedly facing a $75,000 (£58,000) bill for the flight to Italy. While the 'locker room' video appeared to contradict the Bureau's initial stance that the trip was for official business, federal law and post-9/11 security protocols mandate the use of government aircraft for the Director. These rules require the head of the FBI to avoid commercial flights to ensure constant access to secure, encrypted communications.
