A former FBI agent says his career was derailed after refusing to carry out what he saw as politically motivated directives. Zach Schoffstall, once stationed in the Salt Lake City Division, claims his refusal to comply with certain orders ultimately led to his dismissal in 2024.
The conflict centered on the 2022 arrests of Patriot Front members at a Pride event in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The event, which included controversial performances and organizers, became a flashpoint for public debate. Schoffstall argued there was no evidence the group intended violence and declined to execute a federal search warrant, citing a lack of justification.
Following his refusal, Schoffstall was reassigned and eventually dismissed. He alleged the case was transferred to an agent with ties to LGBTQ advocacy, suggesting personal and political agendas may have influenced the investigation.
Schoffstall also criticized the handling of hate crime cases by U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit. He said two cases involving racial assaults were declined for prosecution, with Hurwit instead focusing on hosting events to discuss hate crimes. Schoffstall viewed this as prioritizing optics over substantive enforcement.
The DOJ launched its “United Against Hate” program in 2022, emphasizing outreach and education to address extremism and hate crimes. Critics, including Schoffstall, argue the initiative often favors symbolic actions over tangible results.
The Patriot Front case ended with minor penalties for most involved, underscoring concerns about the DOJ’s priorities. Schoffstall’s story raises broader questions about the role of politics in federal law enforcement and its impact on impartial justice.
