How a former FBI agent took down a Russian spy

How a former FBI agent took down a Russian spy

This week on “The Takeout,” former FBI operative Eric O’Neill joins Major Garrett to discuss his book “Gray Day” and talk about Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election.

Truth Analysis

Factual Accuracy
4/5
Bias Level
3/5
Analysis Summary:

The article is mostly accurate, focusing on Eric O'Neill's role in the Robert Hanssen case. The title is slightly misleading as it implies O'Neill single-handedly "took down" Hanssen, which is an oversimplification. The article exhibits a slight bias by framing O'Neill as a key figure without fully acknowledging the broader team effort involved in the investigation.

Detailed Analysis:
  • Claim:** Former FBI operative Eric O'Neill discusses his book "Gray Day" and Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election.
    • Verification Source #4: Supports the claim that Eric O'Neill is a former FBI agent and is associated with the Robert Hanssen case.
    • Verification Source #2: Mentions O'Neill's involvement in the Hanssen case.
  • Fail to cover:* The specific mention of his book "Gray Day" and discussion of the 2016 election.
  • Claim:** The article implies Eric O'Neill "took down" Robert Hanssen.
    • Verification Source #2: States that O'Neill played a role in exposing Hanssen.
    • Verification Source #3: States that it took 300 agents to bring Hanssen down.
  • Analysis:* This claim is an oversimplification. While O'Neill played a significant role, it was a team effort. The title is therefore slightly misleading.
  • Claim:** Robert Hanssen was a Russian spy.
    • Verification Source #1: States that Robert Philip Hanssen was arrested and charged with committing espionage on behalf of the intelligence services of the former Soviet Union.
    • Verification Source #4: Refers to Hanssen as a former FBI agent who was sentenced to life in prison.
  • Analysis:* This claim is accurate and supported by multiple sources.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
  • Verification Source #1: Confirms Robert Hanssen's arrest for espionage on behalf of the Soviet Union.
  • Verification Source #2: Highlights Eric O'Neill's role in the Hanssen case.
  • Verification Source #3: Contradicts the implication that O'Neill single-handedly "took down" Hanssen, stating that 300 agents were involved.
  • Verification Source #4: Supports O'Neill's involvement and his connection to the Hanssen case.