Kash Patel is once again facing intense scrutiny after a major misstep involving the FBI’s response to the tragic mass shooting at Brown University.
A 24-year-old Army sniper was wrongfully detained in connection with the incident, with his name and photo leaked to the press.
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha confirmed the mistake on Sunday, prompting questions about Patel’s handling of the case.
Tragedy at Brown University
The shooting occurred during a review session for an introductory economics exam on Saturday afternoon.
Two students were killed, including 19-year-old Ella Cook, vice president of the university’s Republican club, while nine others were injured.
The FBI initially arrested a suspect believed to be involved, but the individual was released hours later after authorities realized they had the wrong person.
Patel’s Premature Announcement Sparks Backlash
Patel quickly publicized the arrest on X, bragging about the FBI’s use of advanced cell phone tracking technology to detain the soldier at a Rhode Island hotel.
The suspect, allegedly traveling from Wisconsin with a firearm, was freed shortly after, leaving the investigation back at square one.
Experts warn investigators now must start over, reevaluating all evidence to determine where it truly leads.
Patel’s track record of premature announcements has earned him the nickname “Keystone Kash,” referencing the bumbling Keystone Cops.
Most notably, he falsely claimed success after Charlie Kirk’s assassination in September, only for the initially announced suspect to be released two hours later.
It took another 48 hours for authorities to capture the real perpetrator, Tyler Robinson, age 22.
Pattern of Controversy
The Brown University incident is not Patel’s first headline-grabbing misstep.
In October, he prematurely claimed the FBI had foiled a terror plot in Michigan, despite incomplete information and suspects not yet in custody.
Critics warned that such announcements could alert potential fugitives, jeopardizing investigations.
Political Fallout and Trump’s Embarrassment
The weekend debacle drew former President Donald Trump into the narrative, as his administration had to publicly clarify that the alleged suspect was not in custody, correcting Patel’s claims.
Former FBI Special Agent Steve Moore emphasized that investigators must now essentially restart the inquiry, reviewing evidence as if seeing it for the first time.
Social Media and Public Outcry
Online criticism was swift. One X user summarized the fiasco: Patel tipped off police, celebrated the arrest online, only for the suspect to be released within 24 hours while the shooter remained at large.
The incident has added to mounting public frustration over Patel’s leadership and handling of high-profile FBI matters.
Congressional Scrutiny Intensifies
Patel has faced tough questioning from Democratic lawmakers, including Texas Rep.
Jasmine Crockett, over previous FBI controversies.
Crockett argued that the agency would not have captured Tyler Robinson after the Kirk killing without parental tips, questioning Patel’s competence and leadership.
Patel, however, has consistently defended his actions, claiming that success in his mission is what matters most.
Allegations of Personal Misuse of FBI Resources
Adding to the controversy, Patel is under investigation by House Democrats for allegedly using the FBI’s Gulfstream private jet for personal travel.
Reports suggest trips included attending a girlfriend’s concert and a luxury hunting resort in Texas, raising concerns about misuse of agency resources for personal gain.
What’s Next
As investigators regroup and the search for the actual Brown University shooter continues, Patel faces intensified scrutiny on multiple fronts — from social media backlash to congressional investigations.
The FBI’s credibility and the efficiency of its leadership are now firmly in the spotlight, with answers urgently demanded from the director himself.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn