For Immediate Release
July 14, 2000

Washington D.C.
FBI National Press Office

Statement by FBI Director Louis J. Freeh following the announced findings of the advisory jury to U. S. District Court Judge Walter Smith:

There has been a lot of speculation, misinformation, and second-guessing over the past seven years and I am grateful that this trial and other actions by the court allowed the allegations to be aired and the facts to be proved. I commend the court for exercising its discretion in empaneling an advisory jury to evaluate the credibility of all witnesses and assess the facts proven in court. The significance of the jury's findings to the courageous federal law enforcement officers who have had to absorb unproven allegations and public criticisms for all these years cannot be overstated. An enormous burden has been lifted from them and their families.

The loss of life at Waco was tragic but, as the jury heard, there were FBI agents who risked their lives to save the lives of Branch Davidians. I hope that today's announcement will reinforce the fact that the actions taken during those 51 difficult days were taken by dedicated professionals who were doing their best under extraordinarily dangerous conditions.

Today also should serve as a reminder that ATF officers were killed in the line of duty. The families and loved ones of those agents can now take some solace in knowing this outcome also lifts from them the heavy burdens of unfounded allegations.