USA: ODNI issues Glomar denial on UFO whistleblower files
The national intelligence directorate refused to confirm or deny holding records regarding Grusch's communications with the inspector general. Officials cited statutory protections for confidential informant identities within oversight investigations as justification for non-disclosure.
Background
On January 5, 2024, the ODNI responded to the transparency petition with a refusal to acknowledge whether responsive documents existed, commonly termed a 'Glomar' denial. The justification referenced exemption categories paired with specific sections of the 1947 National Security Act protecting employee identities within inspector general inquiries. Agency representatives maintained that releasing any materials would inherently reveal Grusch's role as the complaining party, despite his subsequent public whistleblower status. This procedural response effectively blocked access to potentially crucial documentation supporting allegations regarding unconventional aerospace retrieval programs.