On Mar. 4, 2009, Frederick A.O. Schwarz testified before the Senate Judiciary hearing, “Getting to the Truth Through a Nonpartisan Commission of Inquiry.” The following video clips are from the question-and-answer portion of the hearing. Schwarz was briefly questioned by Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) and prompted by Sen. Leahy (D-VT) to discuss the necessity of providing witnesses immunity.
Click here to read and watch Schwarz’s prepared testimony given before the question and answer portion.
Sen. John Cornyn Questions Frederick A.O. Schwarz Jr.
Senator Cornyn (R-TX) raises concerns about retroactive discipline and how that would affect the intelligence community. Schwarz responds that 1.) he does not believe CIA agents should be brought before a criminal court and 2.) bringing the intelligence services into the realm of the of law only would strengthen that establishment.
Frederick A.O. Schwarz Jr. on Immunity
Following up on comments from Senator Leahy (D-VT), Schwarz comments on the use of immunity during the Church Committee. They did not issue immunity, but were still able to uncover illegal activity. Schwarz then goes on to state that he does not believe it would be a good idea to pursue criminal convictions against CIA officers involved in countterrorism policies.