Overview
- Reports say an FBI SWAT team escorted Alexis Wilkins at the NRA’s Atlanta convention on Patel’s orders before leaving early, prompting his criticism of the commander’s decision.
- Additional deployments reportedly occurred in Nashville, Salt Lake City, and at Patel’s Las Vegas residence, and agents helped transport Wilkins from a London airport during a May trip.
- Coverage also details Patel’s use of government aircraft for personal travel, including a reported golf trip to Scotland, with reimbursement at the commercial fare required by policy.
- A spokesman for Patel said Wilkins receives a protective detail because she has faced hundreds of credible death threats linked to her relationship with the director.
- Critics, including a former senior FBI agent, argue the use of SWAT-qualified personnel and government jets for Wilkins’ protection is excessive, while separate reporting highlighted a flight to Pennsylvania for an event where she performed.