Online Public Relations Thoughts

The FBI and the American government have a PR challenge from a former hostage in Africa.  The American missionary was seized by Islamic extremists in Niger and held for six years.  His family said the FBI withheld information about negotiations with the terrorists and caused needless suffering.  The victim, Jeff Woodke, had given up hope of release and was praying for death to keep his family from pain any longer.  It's an affecting story but one that only partially puts the FBI and American government in a bad light.  Rescuing citizens from hostage takers is delicate and onerous work.  One must find them first then establish communications then respond to demands.  It takes months and sometimes, years even when the perpetrators are known, such as the Russians arresting the Wall Street Journal reporter for spying.  Woodke's complaints have some merit but might have unnecessarily thrust the FBI into a bad light.