What is the FBI?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States and its principal federal law enforcement agency. The FBI is responsible for investigating a wide range of federal crimes, including terrorism, espionage, public corruption, and civil rights violations.
The FBI was founded in 1908 as the Bureau of Investigation (BOI). The BOI was renamed the FBI in 1935. The FBI is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has 56 field offices in the United States and 60 legal attachs overseas.
The FBI is a vital part of the U.S. national security apparatus. The FBI's mission is to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI also works to uphold the Constitution and enforce federal laws.
The FBI has a long and distinguished history of service to the United States. The FBI has played a major role in investigating and preventing some of the most significant crimes in U.S. history, including the September 11th terrorist attacks, the Oklahoma City bombing, and the Unabomber case.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The FBI is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States, and its principal federal law enforcement agency. It is responsible for investigating a wide range of federal crimes, including terrorism, espionage, public corruption, and civil rights violations.
- Mission: Protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security.
- Headquarters: Washington, D.C.
- Field Offices: 56 in the United States
- Legal Attachs: 60 overseas
- Employees: Approximately 35,000
- Budget: Approximately $9.6 billion
- Founded: 1908
- Motto: Fidelity, Bravery, Integrity
- Director: Christopher A. Wray
The FBI plays a vital role in protecting the United States from terrorism and other threats to national security. The FBI also works to uphold the Constitution and enforce federal laws. The FBI has a long and distinguished history of service to the United States, and has played a major role in investigating and preventing some of the most significant crimes in U.S. history.
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Christopher A. Wray | Director of the FBI |
Mission
The FBI is responsible for investigating a wide range of federal crimes, including terrorism, espionage, and public corruption. The FBI's mission is to protect the United States from these threats to national security.
- Counterterrorism
The FBI is the lead federal agency for investigating and preventing terrorism in the United States. The FBI works closely with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to identify and disrupt terrorist threats. The FBI also provides training and assistance to law enforcement agencies across the country on how to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks. - Counterintelligence
The FBI is responsible for investigating espionage and other threats to the national security of the United States. The FBI works to identify and apprehend foreign spies and saboteurs. The FBI also works to protect classified information and prevent the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information. - Cybersecurity
The FBI is responsible for investigating cybercrimes that threaten the national security of the United States. The FBI works to identify and apprehend cybercriminals and to protect the nation's critical infrastructure from cyberattacks. - Civil Rights
The FBI is responsible for investigating civil rights violations, including hate crimes, human trafficking, and police misconduct. The FBI works to protect the civil rights of all Americans and to ensure that everyone is treated fairly under the law.
The FBI's mission to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security is a critical one. The FBI works tirelessly to keep the United States safe and secure.
Headquarters
The FBI's headquarters is located in Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. This is a strategic location for the FBI, as it allows the agency to be close to the center of government and to work closely with other federal agencies.
- Centralized Location: The FBI's headquarters in Washington, D.C. allows the agency to be close to the center of government and to work closely with other federal agencies, such as the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security.
- Access to Information: Washington, D.C. is a hub for information, and the FBI's headquarters there gives the agency access to a wealth of information from other government agencies, as well as from the private sector.
- Recruitment and Retention: Washington, D.C. is a major metropolitan area, and the FBI's headquarters there gives the agency access to a large pool of potential recruits. The FBI also benefits from the presence of a number of universities and colleges in the area, which can provide the agency with a steady stream of highly qualified candidates.
- International Reach: Washington, D.C. is an international hub, and the FBI's headquarters there gives the agency easy access to other countries and to international organizations.
The FBI's headquarters in Washington, D.C. is a critical asset to the agency. The location allows the FBI to be close to the center of government, to access a wealth of information, to recruit and retain a highly qualified workforce, and to have a global reach.
Field Offices
The FBI has 56 field offices located throughout the United States. These field offices are responsible for investigating federal crimes in their respective territories. The field offices also work closely with state and local law enforcement agencies to combat crime and protect the public.
- Regional Coverage: The FBI's field offices are strategically located throughout the United States, ensuring that every region of the country is covered. This regional coverage allows the FBI to respond quickly to any threats or incidents that may arise.
- Local Partnerships: The FBI's field offices work closely with state and local law enforcement agencies to combat crime and protect the public. These partnerships allow the FBI to leverage the resources and expertise of local law enforcement, and to ensure that all levels of law enforcement are working together to keep the United States safe.
- Specialized Units: The FBI's field offices have specialized units that focus on specific types of crime, such as terrorism, cybercrime, and public corruption. These specialized units allow the FBI to bring its expertise and resources to bear on the most pressing crime problems facing the United States.
- Community Outreach: The FBI's field offices conduct a variety of community outreach programs to educate the public about crime prevention and to build relationships with the communities they serve. These programs help to build trust between the FBI and the community, and to make the community more resilient to crime.
The FBI's field offices are a critical part of the agency's mission to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The field offices work closely with state and local law enforcement agencies to combat crime and protect the public.
Legal Attachs
The FBI has 60 legal attachs posted at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world. These attachs are responsible for providing legal advice and assistance to FBI personnel overseas, as well as to U.S. citizens and businesses. They also work closely with foreign law enforcement and intelligence agencies to combat crime and terrorism.
- Providing Legal Advice and Assistance
FBI legal attachs provide legal advice and assistance to FBI personnel overseas on a wide range of issues, including criminal investigations, national security matters, and administrative law. They also provide legal assistance to U.S. citizens and businesses overseas, such as helping them to navigate foreign legal systems and to protect their rights. - Working with Foreign Law Enforcement and Intelligence Agencies
FBI legal attachs work closely with foreign law enforcement and intelligence agencies to combat crime and terrorism. They share information and expertise, and they coordinate joint investigations and operations. This cooperation is essential for keeping the United States and its allies safe from terrorism and other threats. - Representing the FBI Overseas
FBI legal attachs represent the FBI overseas and promote the FBI's mission and values. They build relationships with foreign law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and they work to strengthen the rule of law around the world.
The FBI's legal attachs play a vital role in the FBI's mission to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. They provide legal advice and assistance to FBI personnel overseas, work closely with foreign law enforcement and intelligence agencies to combat crime and terrorism, and represent the FBI overseas.
Employees
The FBI is a large and complex organization with a wide range of responsibilities. The FBI's approximately 35,000 employees are essential to the agency's ability to carry out its mission to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security.
The FBI's employees come from a variety of backgrounds and have a wide range of skills and expertise. The FBI employs special agents, intelligence analysts, forensic scientists, and other professionals. The FBI also has a large support staff that provides administrative and technical support to the agency's mission.
The FBI's employees are dedicated to protecting the United States from terrorism and other threats to national security. The FBI's employees work long hours and often put themselves in danger to protect the American people. The FBI's employees are a valuable asset to the United States, and their work is essential to keeping the country safe.
Budget
The FBI's budget of approximately $9.6 billion is essential to the agency's ability to carry out its mission to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI's budget is used to fund a wide range of activities, including:
- Investigations: The FBI's investigations are essential to protecting the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI's budget allows the agency to conduct a wide range of investigations, including terrorism investigations, counterintelligence investigations, and criminal investigations.
- Intelligence analysis: The FBI's intelligence analysis is essential to understanding the threats facing the United States and to developing strategies to mitigate those threats. The FBI's budget allows the agency to collect and analyze intelligence from a variety of sources, including human sources, technical sources, and open sources.
- Training: The FBI's training is essential to ensuring that the agency's employees have the skills and knowledge necessary to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI's budget allows the agency to provide training to its employees on a wide range of topics, including counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and criminal investigation.
- Technology: The FBI's technology is essential to the agency's ability to carry out its mission. The FBI's budget allows the agency to invest in a wide range of technologies, including surveillance technology, communications technology, and forensic technology.
The FBI's budget of approximately $9.6 billion is a critical investment in the security of the United States. The FBI's budget allows the agency to carry out its mission to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security.
Founded
The establishment of the FBI in 1908 marked a pivotal moment in the history of law enforcement in the United States. This section explores the profound connection between the founding of the FBI and its subsequent evolution, examining various facets that have shaped the agency's role in safeguarding national security.
- Establishing a Federal Investigative Body: Prior to 1908, the United States lacked a centralized federal agency dedicated to investigating crimes that transcended state boundaries. The establishment of the FBI filled this void, providing a cohesive force to combat emerging threats such as organized crime and espionage.
- Professionalizing Law Enforcement: The FBI's founding ushered in a new era of professionalized law enforcement in the United States. The agency introduced scientific methods and investigative techniques, setting standards that would be emulated by police departments across the country. This professionalization enhanced the FBI's effectiveness in solving complex crimes and maintaining public safety.
- Countering National Security Threats: As the United States entered the 20th century, it faced growing threats to its national security. The FBI played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation against these threats, investigating espionage, sabotage, and other activities aimed at undermining the country's security.
- Adapting to Evolving Threats: Throughout its history, the FBI has consistently adapted to meet the evolving threats faced by the United States. From combating terrorism in the aftermath of 9/11 to investigating cybercrimes in the digital age, the FBI has remained at the forefront of protecting the nation against new and emerging challenges.
In conclusion, the founding of the FBI in 1908 laid the foundation for a robust and adaptable law enforcement agency that has played a pivotal role in safeguarding the United States from a wide range of threats. The FBI's commitment to professional excellence, its ability to counter evolving national security challenges, and its enduring legacy as a premier investigative body have cemented its status as a cornerstone of American law enforcement.
The motto of the FBI, "Fidelity, Bravery, Integrity," embodies the core values that guide the agency's mission and the conduct of its employees. These values are essential to the FBI's ability to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security.
- Fidelity
Fidelity to the Constitution and the rule of law is the foundation of the FBI's work. The FBI's employees are committed to upholding the Constitution and protecting the rights of all Americans. They are also committed to following the rule of law and conducting their investigations in a fair and impartial manner.
- Bravery
The FBI's employees are often called upon to put themselves in danger to protect the United States. They work long hours and often put their lives on the line to keep the country safe. The FBI's employees are committed to serving their country and protecting the American people, even in the face of danger.
- Integrity
The FBI's employees are committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct. They are honest, trustworthy, and accountable. The FBI's employees are committed to serving the public interest and to upholding the FBI's reputation for excellence.
The FBI's motto, "Fidelity, Bravery, Integrity," is a reflection of the agency's commitment to protecting the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI's employees are dedicated to upholding the Constitution, serving their country, and protecting the American people.
Director
Christopher A. Wray is the current Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), appointed by President Donald Trump in 2017. As the Director, Wray oversees the FBI's vast responsibilities, including counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and criminal investigations.
- Leadership and Management:
Wray provides strategic direction and guidance to the FBI's workforce of over 35,000 employees. He sets priorities, allocates resources, and ensures that the FBI is operating efficiently and effectively.
- Law Enforcement:
Wray is responsible for overseeing the FBI's law enforcement activities, including criminal investigations, counterterrorism operations, and intelligence gathering. He works closely with other law enforcement agencies, both domestic and international, to combat crime and protect national security.
- Public Safety:
Wray is committed to protecting the public from terrorism and other threats. He has implemented a number of initiatives to enhance the FBI's ability to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks. He also works closely with state and local law enforcement agencies to address crime and public safety concerns.
- Oversight and Accountability:
Wray is accountable to the U.S. Congress and the American people. He regularly testifies before Congress and provides updates on the FBI's activities. He is also committed to transparency and accountability, and has taken steps to increase the FBI's openness and responsiveness to the public.
Christopher A. Wray is a dedicated public servant who has served the FBI for over 20 years. He is a strong leader and a committed law enforcement professional. Under his leadership, the FBI is well-positioned to meet the challenges of the 21st century and protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security.
FAQs about the FBI
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States, and its principal federal law enforcement agency. The FBI is responsible for investigating a wide range of federal crimes, including terrorism, espionage, public corruption, and civil rights violations.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the FBI:
Question 1: What is the FBI's mission?
The FBI's mission is to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI also works to uphold the Constitution and enforce federal laws.
Question 2: What are the FBI's main responsibilities?
The FBI's main responsibilities include investigating terrorism, espionage, public corruption, and civil rights violations. The FBI also provides training and assistance to law enforcement agencies across the country.
Question 3: How many employees does the FBI have?
The FBI has approximately 35,000 employees, including special agents, intelligence analysts, forensic scientists, and other professionals.
Question 4: What is the FBI's budget?
The FBI's budget is approximately $9.6 billion.
Question 5: Who is the current Director of the FBI?
The current Director of the FBI is Christopher A. Wray.
Question 6: Where is the FBI's headquarters located?
The FBI's headquarters is located in Washington, D.C.
The FBI is a vital part of the U.S. national security apparatus. The FBI's mission is to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI also works to uphold the Constitution and enforce federal laws.
For more information about the FBI, please visit the FBI's website at www.fbi.gov.
Conclusion
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is a vital part of the U.S. national security apparatus. The FBI plays a critical role in protecting the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats to national security. The FBI also works to uphold the Constitution and enforce federal laws.
The FBI is a complex and multifaceted organization with a wide range of responsibilities. The FBI's employees are dedicated to protecting the United States and its citizens from harm. The FBI is committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the civil rights of all Americans.
The FBI is constantly adapting to meet the evolving threats facing the United States. The FBI is committed to using the latest technology and investigative techniques to protect the United States from terrorism, espionage, and other threats.
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