WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former Federal Bureau of Investigation investigators and professional staff established the FBI Support Network. The organization provides legal assistance, employment transition resources, and mental health referrals to former and current personnel.

Kayla Staph, a former FBI cyber-crime investigator, resigned from the FBI Norfolk field office in September 2024. Staph cited the reallocation of agency resources to mass deportation operations as the reason for her departure. "Many FBI agents and professional staff analysts are quietly dealing with the mental health challenges that have been caused." Staph stated.

The Office of Personnel Management reported that 1,100 agency employees departed during the administration's first year. Staph suggested a possible intent behind the departures: "It would seem that driving out so many leaders was by design, because it alleviates obstacles if someone is trying to use the FBI for their own purposes."

The Senate confirmed Kash Patel as director of the FBI. Brian Driscoll served as acting director in the weeks preceding Patel's confirmation. Driscoll was removed from his position after attempting to shield employees involved in investigations concerning Donald Trump and the January 6 Capitol attack.

Steven Cash, a former intelligence officer, commented on the formation of the support group. "The fact that former FBI people need a support group tells you the devastating impact of the president's policies and Kash Patel's policies." Cash said. He also expressed confidence in the organization's resilience, stating, "The fact that they're organizing tells me that there is something still powerful about the FBI, and I have confidence that the history of that organization is going to permit them to resist destruction."