Defense Domestic Spying Chief Out; Here’s His Email

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As the Washington Post‘s Walter Pincus noted today, the director and deputy director of the Pentagon’s controversial domestic intelligence branch are stepping down simultaneously. In a very understated way, Pincus manages to raise an eyebrow at the fact both men decided to retire at exactly the same time, amid ongoing investigations that threaten to touch their operations.

The organization, known as “CIFA” — for Counterintelligence Field Activity — was first in hot water for keeping track of anti-war demonstrators and peace groups. Later, it became known that a company deeply involved in the Cunningham corruption scandal had played an important role in developing the center, and held numerous contracts to provide the center with staff, technology and support. It was created in 2003, largely through efforts by Burtt and James King, a senior executive at the scandal-linked company, MZM.

A friend of the site sent us a copy of Burtt’s announcement to CIFA staff, which we’ve verified as authentic:

From: Burtt, David (GOV)
Sent: Wed 8/9/2006 11:29 AM
To: All_CIFA
Cc:
Subject: A Message from the Director

For the past four years, I have been privileged to serve as your Director and be part of the CIFA family. It has been an honor to serve in that capacity. I am especially proud of all of you and what you have accomplished for the CI Community, for the overall CI mission, and for your co-workers here at CIFA.

Today, I want to share with you my decision to resign as Director and retire from government service. My last day in the office will be August 31. I did not make this decision without trepidation, but the time is right to move on to the next phase of my career.

Mr. Hefferon has also decided to retire, after over 31 years of federal service.

In the interim, Mr. Dan Baur will serve as Director, CIFA and Mr. John O’Hara will serve as Deputy Director.

Thank you all for your hard work and dedication.
— Dave Burtt

We’re told Burtt and his deputy are spending their last days trying to figure out how to spy on their own going-away happy hour. (No, really. That’s a joke.)

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