Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey Appointed as Co-Deputy Director of the FBI

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey Appointed as Co-Deputy Director of the FBI

EXCLUSIVE: Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel are set to welcome Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey as the latest addition to the FBI leadership team. This new appointment will see Bailey serve as co-deputy director alongside Deputy Director Dan Bongino, according to exclusive information obtained by Fox News Digital.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Bondi expressed excitement about Bailey’s new role. She described him as a distinguished state attorney general and a decorated war veteran, highlighting the expertise and commitment he brings to public service. Bondi stated that Bailey’s leadership would be a significant advantage as they work towards the objectives set by President Trump.

Additionally, Patel commented on Bailey’s appointment, underscoring his belief that the FBI must recruit top talent to meet the expectations of the American people, especially now that Trump has been re-elected. He emphasized Bailey’s integral role in this important mission, expressing optimism about their collaborative efforts to restore safety in America.

Bailey’s Track Record as Attorney General

As Missouri’s attorney general, Bailey has made substantial contributions to public safety. He initiated an anti-human trafficking task force that addressed over 1,100 incidents in the state. Moreover, his office successfully cleared the backlog of Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence (SAFE) kits, enhancing the prosecution of sexual assault cases.

Bailey has also fiercely defended the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department in civil litigation, consistently advocating for law enforcement’s rightful place in the community. His efforts garnered the endorsement of the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, a testament to his commitment to public safety and law enforcement.

Moreover, Bailey’s office reported a remarkable 133% increase in trial court-level criminal prosecutions during his tenure, reflecting his dedication to holding offenders accountable.

Accountability and Leadership

Accountability has been a cornerstone of Bailey’s leadership as attorney general. He has taken decisive actions, demanding the resignation of a sheriff due to financial mismanagement and misconduct. Additionally, Bailey announced a grand jury indictment against a county executive in St. Louis for theft and election law violations, showcasing his willingness to confront corruption head-on.

In expressing his gratitude for his new appointment, Bailey emphasized his commitment to the FBI’s mission. He expressed appreciation to President Trump, Attorney General Bondi, and Director Patel for allowing him to be part of their efforts to make America safe again.

Federal Law Enforcement under Trump’s Leadership

A senior administration official revealed that Trump is eager to see an aggressive approach to prosecuting criminals, deporting illegal immigrants, and holding corrupt politicians accountable. This goal necessitates a robust team to implement effective strategies. Bailey’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to bolster this framework, ensuring that Attorney General Bondi and Director Patel have experienced and credible support in achieving the administration’s objectives.

Under Patel’s leadership, the FBI has already achieved notable milestones, including 19,000 arrests nationwide. This figure marks a significant increase, doubling the arrests made in all of 2024. Among these arrests, 1,600 involved violent crimes against children, with 270 instances related to human trafficking. Additionally, a thousand arrests were connected to investigations involving foreign terrorist organizations, and three of the FBI’s Top 10 Most Wanted individuals have been apprehended.

A Focus on Public Safety

The FBI’s actions, as reported, have also led to the rescue of 4,000 child victims—a 33% increase when compared to the previous year. Furthermore, substantial drug seizures have taken place, with 1,500 kilos of fentanyl and 6,300 kilos of methamphetamines coming off the streets.

As crime rates fluctuate, a senior official indicated to Fox News Digital that the murder rate is currently on track to potentially hit a historic low. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that President Trump is determined to ensure that America becomes the safest country worldwide, a vision powered by a law and order-focused team.

The Growing Law and Order Initiative

Bailey’s appointment comes at a time when Trump’s law and order agenda continues to expand. Bondi is leading the federal response in Washington, D.C., in collaboration with the FBI. Recently, she reported nearly 200 arrests in the capital, including individuals charged with murder, illegal gun possession, and drug trafficking since the federalization of the city aimed at crime control.

Those apprehended during this operation included two homicide suspects, 17 alleged drug traffickers, 39 suspected illegal gun offenders, and two sexual predators, highlighting the administration’s aggressive stance on crime.

Fox News Digital’s Alexandra Koch contributed to this report.