Pentagon announces investigation into leaks that could include lie detector tests

The Pentagon’s intelligence and law enforcement arms are currently conducting an investigation into leaks of national security information, as reported in a memo from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s chief of staff Joe Kasper. The memo referenced recent unauthorized disclosures of sensitive information, but did not provide specific details about the leaks.

In a separate development, President Trump dismissed reports suggesting that adviser Elon Musk would be briefed on strategies for a hypothetical conflict with China. The administration has made it clear that any unauthorized disclosure of national security information will be subject to criminal prosecution.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently announced plans to use polygraph tests on employees suspected of leaking operational information to the media. In a social media post, Noem revealed that two individuals within the department had been identified as the source of leaked information and would be prosecuted accordingly.

The Department of Homeland Security has been conducting polygraph tests on employees for several weeks as part of the leak investigation. The results of these tests have not yet been disclosed, but the department is committed to holding accountable those responsible for compromising law enforcement operations.

Furthermore, the Justice Department has launched an investigation into the selective leak of classified information about Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang targeted for removal by the U.S. government. These leaks, although inaccurate, have raised concerns about national security and the need to address unauthorized disclosures.

While leaks are not uncommon in government agencies, the use of polygraph tests to identify sources of information has raised questions about their reliability and admissibility in legal proceedings. George Maschke, a former Army interrogator, has criticized the use of polygraphs, citing their potential for false positives and intimidation tactics.

In conclusion, the efforts to combat unauthorized disclosures of national security information highlight the ongoing challenges faced by government agencies in protecting classified data. The use of polygraph tests and investigations by intelligence and law enforcement agencies underscore the seriousness of such breaches and the need for heightened security measures.