The Department of Justice has settled with two former FBI officials over violation of privacy rights, resulting in a significant payout for both parties. Former counterintelligence agent Peter Strzok and FBI lawyer Lisa Page filed suit against the Justice Department over the release of their text message conversations expressing contempt for former President Donald Trump.
According to court documents reviewed by the Associated Press, Strzok settled his case for $1.2 million, while Page received $800,000. Strzok, who was fired in 2018 for sending out anti-Trump texts, argued that his messages were protected by the First Amendment, even though they were sent on bureau-issued phones while he was involved in high-profile investigations.
“This outcome is a critical step forward in addressing the government’s unfair and highly politicized treatment of Pete,” said Strzok’s lawyer, Aitan Goelam. Page also filed suit against the FBI and Department of Justice, seeking reimbursement for various expenses related to the fallout from the release of her text messages with Strzok.
“While I have been vindicated by this result, my fervent hope remains that our institutions of justice will never again play politics with the lives of their employees,” Page said in a statement. The settlement highlights the ongoing debate over privacy rights and political speech within government agencies.
The case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public servants in maintaining their privacy and free speech rights while carrying out their duties. The settlement may have implications for how government employees are treated in the future, as it sets a precedent for protecting their privacy interests.
