FBI
Director Announces Charlene B. Thornton as
New Assistant Director for the Inspection Division
Washington,
D.C. - FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III, has
named Charlene B. Thornton, currently serving as
Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Division,
to be the Assistant Director for the Inspection
Division.
In her new position, Ms. Thornton will focus on
strengthening FBI inspection standards and implementing
"best practices" throughout the FBI. In
addition to overseeing internal investigations of
employee misconduct, Ms. Thornton will evaluate
the FBI's investigative, financial, and administrative
programs to ensure their economic value and compliance
with FBI objectives, governing laws, rules, regulations,
and policies.
Director Mueller said, "The FBI is committed
to ensuring accountability and maintaining high
standards at all levels of the FBI. Ms. Thornton
has upheld these ideals throughout her career. Her
prior leadership experience, both in the Inspection
Division and in the field, will make her an invaluable
addition to the team."
Ms.
Thornton entered on duty with the FBI in 1979 and
first served in the Indianapolis field office. Since
then, she has served in the Los Angeles, Baltimore,
Honolulu, Birmingham, and Phoenix Field Offices.
Ms. Thornton has investigated a variety of cases,
involving criminal matters, counterterrorism, drugs,
and civil rights. Prior to her appointment as Special
Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Division, Ms. Thornton
served as Special Agent in Charge of the Birmingham
Division, as an Inspector in the Inspection Division
at FBI Headquarters, and as Assistant Special Agent
in Charge of the Honolulu Division.
Ms. Thornton grew up in Wisconsin and earned her
Bachelor of Arts degree from Marion College in 1976.
She earned a Juris Doctorate degree, with honors,
from Indiana University School of Law, Indianapolis,
in 1979, and a Masters of Law degree from the University
of San Diego School of Law in 1983. Currently, Ms.
Thornton is a member of the Indiana Bar Association
and the International Association of Chiefs of Police
and serves on the Special Agents Mutual Benefit
Association Board of Directors.
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