WWW.USDOJ.GOV

STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL JOHN ASHCROFT ON THE ARREST

"Sunday, the FBI successfully concluded an investigation to end a serious breach in the security of the United States. The arrest of Robert Hanssen for espionage should remind every American that our nation, our free society, is an international target in a dangerous world. In fact, the espionage operations designed to steal vital secrets of the United States are as intense today as they have ever been.

"As an agency responsible for protecting our national security, this is a difficult day for the FBI.

It is especially difficult because the person who was investigated, arrested and charged was one of our own.

"The FBI has done an exemplary job in investigating this very sensitive matter and ending this breach of national security. I want to commend FBI Director Freeh and his Agents for taking decisive action once they learned of the risk to our national security.

"The FBI moved swiftly and discreetly to affect the arrest. Today's announcement is a result of their professionalism, skill and dedication. I want to thank the FBI, the CIA, the Department of State, and the US Attorney's Office for their productive cooperation in this case.

"Let me be clear - individuals who commit treason against the United States will be held fully accountable. I will devote whatever resources are necessary within the Department to ensure that justice is done in this and other cases.

"FBI Director Freeh and I have agreed to order a comprehensive independent review of FBI procedures. I look forward to receiving the report from Former FBI Director and Director of Central Intelligence, Judge William Webster and I thank him for agreeing to lead the review."

###

01-073