Subject: Border Agent Probed by DHS After Testifying Before Congress

A top House Republican is calling on the Department of Homeland Security not to retaliate against a border patrol agent who has recently criticized President Obama's immigration policies.

"I fully expect that you will personally ensure that no DHS employee or contractor will be targeted for reprisal or any other form of adverse employment action on the basis of voicing their legitimate concerns regarding compliance with unwritten departmental policies that contradict your written policies," Judiciary Committee chairman Bob Goodlatte, R-Va., wrote in an April 18 letter to Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson.

That message was sent on behalf of Brandon Judd, the head of the border patrol union, who has become a thorn in the side of his superiors by testifying that DHS is implementing a "catch-and-release" policy, despite official statements saying that policy is not in effect. He has also suggested that some DHS officials who are candid with Congress risk punishment.

Now, Judd faces misconduct allegations filed by "one or more managers" at Border Patrol.

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