Blackwater’s Parent Has Spies for Hire
Author: Dave Lewis
Blackwater’s parent company continues to build out its mercenary army. Now, The Prince Group has announced a new operation.
From the Washington Post:
The operation, Total Intelligence Solutions, has assembled a roster of former spooks — high-ranking figures from agencies such as the CIA and defense intelligence — that mirrors the slate of former military officials who run Blackwater. Its chairman is Cofer Black, the former head of counterterrorism at CIA known for his leading role in many of the agency’s more controversial programs, including the rendition and interrogation of al-Qaeda suspects and the detention of some of them in secret prisons overseas.
Its chief executive is Robert Richer, a former CIA associate deputy director of operations who was heavily involved in running the agency’s role in the Iraq war.
Total Intelligence Solutions is one of a growing number of companies that offer intelligence services such as risk analysis to companies and governments. Because of its roster and its ties to owner Erik Prince, the multimillionaire former Navy SEAL, the company’s thrust into this world highlights the blurring of lines between government, industry and activities formerly reserved for agents operating in the shadows.
While I have little doubt these folks are imminently qualified I find pause in one thought. Who is holding the leash? When the US government needs to get a confession will they turn to this outfit in a bid to avoid being accused of torture? It might seem like a touch dramatic but, based on the current administration’s track record I would not discount anything at this point.
Tags: Blackwater, CIA, Mercenary, Total Intelligence Solutions
