The Journey of Alethea Duncan: A Critical Examination of DEI and Suitability

FBI Special Agent Aletha Duncan speaks to the media during a press conference on January 1, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Alethea Duncan, an Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) with the FBI’s New Orleans field office, has come under scrutiny for her role following the 2025 New Orleans terrorist attack. This documentary segment critically examines her path to the FBI, questioning the alignment of her educational background with her current responsibilities and the impact of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies on her hiring.

Education and Early Career:
Duke University: Duncan graduated from Duke University with a degree in Chemistry. While her training undoubtedly provided her with analytical skills, critics argue that a background in natural sciences might not directly correlate with the nuanced demands of counterterrorism, especially in leadership roles where understanding legal, cultural, or psychological aspects could be paramount.

DEI and FBI Recruitment:
Diverse Agent Recruiting (DAR): Duncan’s entry into the FBI was facilitated by the bureau’s “Diverse Agent Recruiting” initiative. While diversity is crucial for enriching perspectives within law enforcement, there’s been contention over whether such initiatives sometimes prioritize diversity over traditional qualifications like law enforcement experience or degrees in criminal justice, sociology, or psychology. Critics, as seen in posts on X, voice concerns that this might lead to a scenario where agents are placed in roles where their background does not fully equip them for the job’s complexities.

FBI Career Trajectory:
Transition to FBI: Despite her chemistry background, Duncan’s career path in the FBI has been remarkable, moving through various field offices and roles. However, her initial misstatement regarding the classification of the New Orleans attack as “not terrorism” has led to questions about whether her scientific education fully prepares her for the intricacies of public communication and strategic management in counterterrorism.
Behavioral Analysis Unit: Her time in the Behavioral Analysis Unit-4 (BAU-4) focused on crimes against adults, which, while relevant, might not directly translate to the broader scope of counterterrorism without additional specialized training or experience.

Controversy and Public Scrutiny:
Public Perception: Duncan’s role in the New Orleans investigation has been a focal point for debate about DEI policies within the FBI. Some argue that her position as a spokesperson and leader in this investigation might reflect more on meeting diversity quotas than on merit-based placements, especially given the public criticism over her initial handling of the terrorism label.

Current Role and Suitability:
Leadership and Expertise: While Duncan’s leadership in managing the investigation’s public face post-controversy shows resilience, there’s a critical discourse on whether her educational background aligns with the strategic, legal, and psychological demands of her current role. Critics contend that while her experience within the FBI has been extensive, the initial misstep in communication could indicate gaps in understanding or training that are crucial for her position.

Conclusion:
The case of Alethea Duncan brings to light the complex interplay between diversity initiatives, educational backgrounds, and professional suitability in high-stakes roles within the FBI. While DEI policies aim to foster a more inclusive law enforcement environment, Duncan’s journey prompts a broader discussion on ensuring that diversity does not come at the expense of competence or alignment with job requirements. This segment reflects on the necessity of critically evaluating how agents are selected and trained, especially for roles where public safety and national security are at stake, without undermining the value of a diverse workforce.