The FBI’s Top NY Official Resigns—Was He Caught Withholding Epstein Files? [WATCH]

James Dennehy, the head of the FBI’s New York office, officially resigned this week following pressure to either step down or face termination.

His departure was marked by an emotional farewell, complete with a bagpipe procession, tearful colleagues, and a cheering escort as he walked out of the bureau.

Dennehy’s resignation follows recent tensions between the FBI and the Trump administration, particularly over efforts to identify agents involved in investigations related to January 6th and ongoing scrutiny over the agency’s handling of key cases.

Elon Musk Called This Financial News ‘Terrifying’

Dennehy had recently vowed to resist actions taken by the Trump administration, signaling his intent to “dig in” against efforts to reform the agency.

“Today, we find ourselves in the middle of a battle of our own, as good people are being walked out of the F.B.I. and others are being targeted because they did their jobs in accordance with the law and F.B.I. policy,” he wrote in an internal email to staff.

“Time for me to dig in.”

New York FBI field office head James Dennehy leaves the FBI building to the sound of *bagpipes* after he says he was forced to resign.

Lmao.

Dennehy was forced to resign after previously telling his office to “dig in” following Trump’s election win.

It also comes after AG Pam… pic.twitter.com/vAGXB2k9KH

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) March 6, 2025

American Made Patriotic Apparel – Save 15% with Promo Code MERICA

His statement came as the Department of Justice ordered an internal review of FBI personnel involved in politically sensitive cases, particularly those tied to the prosecution of January 6th protesters.

Despite his initial pledge to stand firm, Dennehy ultimately chose to leave, reportedly under pressure from higher-ups. In a farewell message obtained by The Hill, he maintained a defiant tone.

“I’ve been told many times in my life, ‘When you find yourself in a hole, sometimes it’s best to quit digging.’ Screw that,” he wrote.

“I will never stop defending this joint. I’ll just do it willingly and proudly from outside the wire.”

Dennehy’s exit was accompanied by a traditional bagpipe sendoff, a gesture typically reserved for law enforcement or military retirements.

However, multiple sources, including NBC News, confirmed that Dennehy did not have the option of a traditional retirement—he was given the choice to resign or be fired.

James Dennehy refused to hand evidence to the AG. He violated the Hatch Act. And sent emails misrepresenting his military service to subordinates.

No surprise that he believes this is a classy exit. https://t.co/Qsudtxrw2T

— Steve Friend (@RealStevefriend) March 7, 2025

While no official reason was provided for Dennehy’s removal, some analysts have noted the timing coincides with Attorney General Pam Bondi’s order for the FBI to release the complete Epstein files.

BREAKING: The head of FBI field office in New York, James Dennehy, has just been forced to resign his post. He claims he was not given a reason why, but the Department of Justice has accused his office of refusing to hand over a trove of Epstein documents to Attorney General… pic.twitter.com/jBdSBrwMH0

— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) March 3, 2025

The long-awaited disclosure was expected to shed light on critical evidence regarding Jeffrey Epstein’s network and associates.

However, reports suggest the release fell short of expectations, raising questions about whether key documents were withheld.

Hot Air’s John Sexton speculated about a potential connection, asking:

“So did the FBI deliver a lot more material to Bondi and did Patel or someone in his office determine it had been withheld by Dennehy? At this moment, we don’t know, but it seems like a possibility given the timing.”

Dennehy has not publicly commented on these speculations, and the FBI has not provided further details on his departure.

In his farewell message, Dennehy praised his colleagues and the agency, stating:

“As I leave today, I have an immense feeling of pride—to have represented an office of professionals who will always do the right thing for the right reasons; who will always seek the truth while upholding the rule of law.”

He also emphasized his belief in the FBI’s mission, writing:

“We will not bend. We will not falter. We will not sacrifice what is right for anything or anyone.”

Despite his words of resilience, Dennehy’s resignation marks yet another shake-up in the agency as the Trump administration moves to reform federal law enforcement.

Whether his departure is connected to the Epstein files or broader efforts to clean house within the FBI remains to be seen.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.