by D. Cupples | To say that security contractor Blackwater is "troubled" is a polite understatement. Among other things, the company became rock-star-famous in September after its guards allegedly shot 17 civilians in Iraq.
The House Oversight Committee received reports that Blackwater contractors might have essentially stolen an Iraqi military plane. The Justice Department was investigating Blackwater for alleged illegal gun smuggling. Then there's the issue of cost: in some cases, Blackwater paid its guards $600 a day but billed us taxpayers $1200 a day. Wouldn't it be cheaper for the State Department to directly hire those same guards for $600 a day?
All that said, the State Department has decided to renew Blackwater's contract(s). The Associated Press reports:
"Amid investigations into fatal shootings of civilians and allegations of tax violations, Blackwater USA's multimillion-dollar contract to protect diplomats in Baghdad has been renewed, the State Department said Friday.
"A final decision about whether the private security company will keep the job is pending, the department said. Moyock, N.C.-based Blackwater is one of the largest private military contractors, receiving nearly $1.25 billion in federal business since 2000, according to a House committee estimate.
"Blackwater provides security for diplomats in Baghdad, where the sprawling U.S. Embassy is headquartered. Its private guards act as bodyguards and armed drivers, escorting government officials when they go outside the fortified Green Zone.
"Iraqis were outraged over a Sept. 16 shooting in which 17 Iraq civilians were killed in a Baghdad square. Blackwater said its guards were protecting diplomats under attack before they opened fire, but Iraqi investigators concluded the shooting was unprovoked.
"An FBI probe began in November. Prosecutors want to know whether Blackwater contractors used excessive force or violated any laws.
"The State Department's top security officer, Greg Starr, told reporters Friday that because the FBI is still investigating the shootings, there is no justification now to pull the contract when it comes due in May." (AP/NY Times)
No justification? The U.S. Government doesn't owe Blackwater a contract renewal. Like any other customer or client, the government can renew or not -- with or without reason. State Department officials know this.
It's hard to imagine that things will get better for us taxpayers if our bureaucrats keep making questionable decisions and keep handling our money in imprudent ways.
Related BN-Politics Posts:
* Blackwater, et. al.: High Cost of Private Contractors
* Blackwater Oversight Hearing: Poor Media Coverage
* State Dept.'s Odd & Untimely Reactions to Blackwater Scandals
* Inspector General Blocked Investigations re: Waste and Fraud?
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