Two Republican members of Congress, Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Rep. Pat Fallon (R-TX), are demanding a renewed probe into the FBI’s handling of the Thomas Crooks case, alleging that the bureau deliberately withheld new, alarming evidence during their earlier investigation.
Kelly and Fallon claim that a recently uncovered cache of Crooks’ social media posts—featuring violent rhetoric, bomb-making research, and calls for political terrorism—was never shared with Congress. They describe the decision as part of a broader pattern of “stonewalling” by the FBI.
Among the most troubling findings: Crooks allegedly researched how to make homemade bombs, demonstrated rapid-fire training with a rifle, and posted extremist content calling for assassinations and political violence. Yet during the initial investigation by Congressional committees, the representatives say they were told there was little digital footprint to suggest ideological motives.
The two lawmakers also raised concerns about the handling of Crooks’ body, citing its rapid cremation and a crime scene that was allegedly cleaned up quickly, making it harder for outside investigators to independently verify evidence.
FBI Director Kash Patel, however, has downplayed the significance of Crooks’ online activity, referring to his digital footprint as “unremarkable.” This has only fueled GOP calls for a more transparent and thorough investigation.
Kelly and Fallon argue that given this new information, Congress should re-open its inquiry into Crooks’ motive and whether any red flags were ignored. They say the public and government deserve full clarity on what led to the attack—and why much of Crooks’ own online radicalism was allegedly kept from their view.
What to Watch:
- Whether Congressional leaders will authorize a new investigation or oversight hearing into the FBI’s handling of Crooks’ online activities.
- Responses from the FBI and DOJ regarding the accusations of withholding evidence.
- Potential policy or procedural changes to how intelligence is shared with Congress, especially in high-risk domestic terrorism investigations.
Summary:
Reps. Mike Kelly and Pat Fallon are demanding answers from the FBI, claiming the agency withheld critical evidence about Thomas Crooks’ extremist online behavior. They argue the omissions undermine the integrity of the original congressional investigation and demand a renewed, more transparent review.
