◆ SpookStack

QUESTION: ANSWER: conclusion. I can assure you absolutely that this is my policy, is the policy of the Bureau, ~ and that we will pursue them as vigorously as we possibly can. There's nothing worse in my estimation than the betrayal of trust and that's what we have when one of your own people defects and gives sanctuary and assistance to the exrminal world. . ‘ * l How do you account than for the fact that there . has been no one who has strayed across the line in all these years? It's almost unhuman. Well, I appreciate your compliment, Mr. Kelly, which I agree with, there has been none. There have been, of course, some allegations made from time to time, all of which have been pursued ‘and found to be groundless. I think that it's inherent in an organization which is closely scrutinized, an organization’ which has a strong inspection system but, more than anything else, is the choice of people who are not susceptible to this type of thing. Unquestionably, in such a screening process some might get through. But, than, within the FBI is a built-in system which further prevents this possibility and that is a tremendous pride in this very matter. That is, that there has been no corruption. And, I am confident that Agents working with one another, although, will, of course, on occasion be sym- pathetic to an Agent who possibly may be drirking too much or may possibly, for other reasons in the area the morals might digress to some extent, they absolutely will not countenance corruption ‘or defection to the criminal element or otherwise contaminate that splendid reputation of the Bureau. It’s a unique situation. It's difficult for sone to understand. But, it's a built-in barrier to an extension of this type of activity and, some- thing of which we will have tremendous pride and I personally would not hesitate one second to pursue any allegations such as this, feeling that although it may get wide publicity, although it may, to some extent, harm the credibility of the FBI, it must be done.- And, I assure you, will be done. Unusual perhaps, but nonetheless, it is present and we will persist with this type of activity. We don't ask \ our Agents to squeel on one another, we point out \ the splendid reputation that is inherent within our tradition and is one of the finest traditions you can possibly build. . 4 - 20 -