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[George W. Maschke]

The Washington Post implicitly endorsed polygraph screening in its editorial "Mr. Hanssen's Plea" in today's (Sat. 7 July 2001) issue. The Post mused "It seems crazy that Mr. Hanssen could rise through the ranks of the bureau's most sensitive sections without ever taking a polygraph exam," and on the topic of security reforms stated, "The FBI is now requiring polygraph exams for roughly 500 such officials. This is a start. A number of continuing reviews will undoubtedly make other recommendations for tightening security further."

You can read the entire editorial at:

http://washingtonpost.com:80/ac2/wp-dyn/A29925-2001Jul6?language=printer

The Washington Post editorial staff (who should know better) have made the all-too-common mistake of confusing "more polygraphs" with "tightening security." You can help set them straight on polygraphy by e-mailing a letter to the editor at letters@washpost.com. Be sure to include your home address and your home and work telephone numbers so that your letter may be considered for publication.