TheBlackVault: FOIA release reveals Grusch DOPSR review documents
The Black Vault published Department of Defense documents obtained through Freedom of Information Act case 23-F-0946. The release revealed internal communications regarding Grusch's prepublication review process. Significant redactions protected personal privacy under exemption b)(6).
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Background
On September 18, 2023, The Black Vault published documents obtained through FOIA case 23-F-0946 regarding David Grusch's DOPSR submissions. The release provided official confirmation of dates and approval status for Grusch's prepublication review requests filed earlier that year. The documents included internal emails between security specialists Michelle Whigham and Don Kluzik discussing their review of Grusch's material.
The released records confirmed that Grusch submitted two separate DOPSR requests on March 7 and April 5, 2023, with both receiving approval for open publication. However, the actual content of Grusch's interview questions remained heavily redacted under FOIA exemption b)(6), which protects personal privacy. The Black Vault announced intentions to appeal these redactions.
This disclosure marked the first public verification of Grusch's DOPSR process from official Department of Defense records. The documents supported Grusch's claims that he had followed proper procedures for clearing his public statements, though questions remained regarding why he had not personally released the fully cleared material.
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