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FBI agents discussed 'sensitive matters' at 2018 MLB playoff game, leading to top official's reassignment

A high-ranking FBI official was reassigned last month after an investigation found he violated federal ethics requirements and FBI policies when he held a meeting at Dodger Stadium during a 2018 playoff game.

According to multiple reports, the investigation, conducted by the U.S. Justice Department Inspector General, concluded that Paul Delacourt — who oversaw the FBI’s Los Angeles regional office — conducted a meeting at the Stadium Club at Dodger Stadium during Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Eight FBI officials were present, per the investigation, and were “surrounded, at times by fans at other tables” while discussing “sensitive intelligence subjects,” the Los Angeles Times reported. According to Politico, the agents present “discussed criminal takedowns planned for the coming weeks, as well as sensitive matters related to counterintelligence.”

The FBI did not pay for the seats or the access to a buffet in the Stadium Club. Another agent violated FBI policy by drinking a beer at the game.

From the Times:

The report cited special agent in charge Voviette Morgan, who oversees the FBI criminal investigations in L.A., for initiating the arrangement and Delacourt for approving it. Delacourt and Morgan showed “poor judgment” and Delacourt was criticized for allowing discussion of sensitive information, the IG’s office said.

Delacourt, who held the title of assistant director, was later found to have “failed to disclose the full nature of the amenities, calling it a sandwich lunch.” Delacourt, who was moved to FBI headquarters in Washington, has debated the Inspector General report’s findings.

From Politico:

When the field office’s top lawyer approached Delacourt shortly after the event and said those who attended might need to pay about $500 apiece to the Dodgers as a reimbursement, the FBI official emphatically disagreed, emphasizing the hours the top agents spent in briefings before the game began.

“We remain troubled that an FBI executive with Delacourt’s experience still, to this day, does not recognize this failing,” the report noted.

Players line up at Dodger Stadium before Game 3 of the National League Championship Series baseball game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Los Angeles Dodgers Monday, Oct. 15, 2018, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Tim Donnelly)
Players line up at Dodger Stadium before Game 3 of the National League Championship Series baseball game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Los Angeles Dodgers Monday, Oct. 15, 2018, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Tim Donnelly)

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