- Alexis Wilkins has been assigned a full-time FBI SWAT security detail.
- The FBI says she faces serious and credible death threats.
- Former agents say the security arrangement is inappropriate.
- Patel also faced backlash for using an FBI jet for trips, including the Olympics.
- Critics point to Patel’s past comments about misuse of bureau aircraft.
FBI Director Kash Patel is facing criticism over reports that FBI resources have been used to protect his girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins, and to support his travel.
According to reports, Wilkins, 27, has been given a full-time security detail that includes four agents and two vehicles. The agents are part of the FBI’s SWAT team. Typically, partners of FBI directors do not receive their own personal security, especially if they live in a different city.
The FBI has said that SWAT teams are usually used for “extremely high-risk situations,” such as dangerous arrests or protecting dignitaries. An FBI spokesperson, Ben Williamson, said Wilkins is receiving protection because of serious threats against her. He said she has faced “hundreds of credible violent death threats,” including graphic threats of rape and murder. He added that these threats are connected to her relationship with Patel.
Williamson also said media coverage has increased risks to Wilkins and led to event cancellations. He described the security detail as standard under the circumstances.
However, some former FBI officials strongly disagree. Christopher O’Leary, a former senior executive in the FBI’s counterterrorism unit, told The New York Times that the situation is highly inappropriate. He said that if someone wants to be a celebrity or social media personality, they should arrange their own private security. He added that the misuse of bureau resources cannot be overstated.
The controversy comes shortly after Patel faced criticism for traveling to Italy during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Patel used an FBI jet for the trip. While the bureau said he was there for official business, he attended the men’s ice hockey gold medal game and was filmed celebrating with Team USA in the locker room after their victory.
Patel responded to the criticism on social media. He said he was proud to celebrate with the gold medal winners and called it a historic moment. Reports also said that former President Donald Trump was unhappy about the optics of the trip.
This was not the first time Patel has been criticized for using the FBI’s private aircraft. He has previously been questioned for using the plane to attend hockey games and to travel to Nashville, where Wilkins lives.
Before becoming FBI director, Patel criticized his predecessor, Christopher A. Wray, for using bureau planes. Critics now say Patel’s actions appear inconsistent with his earlier statements.
The situation has raised concerns about how FBI resources are used and whether the director has overstepped his authority. Supporters argue that security decisions are based on real threats. Critics say public officials must avoid even the appearance of using government resources for personal benefit.
The debate continues as questions grow about transparency and accountability within the bureau’s leadership.
