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@ out to a federal courtroom in Boise, Idaho. Tou.y, there are allegations that a coverup occurred -- allegations that, if proven, shake the very foundation of integrity upon which the FBI is built. Although I was not FBI Director when the Ruby Ridge crisis occurred, I am sincerely disappointed with the FBI's performance during the crisis and especially in its aftermath. These hearings have only served to confirm that belief. The FBI has, however, learned from its mistakes there. I have changed almost every aspect of the FBI's crisis response structure and modified or promulgated new policies and procedures to address the flaws and shortcomings apparent from the FBI's response. I am committed to ensuring that the tragedies of Ruby Ridge never happen again. Circumstances Surrounding the Deployment of FBI Resources to Idaho As you are aware, the FBI responded to Ruby Ridge subsequent to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms investigation of Randy Weaver. The FBI response came after the United States Marshals Service had conducted an 18-month investigation and surveillance of Weaver. The FBI responded to Ruby Ridge on August 21, 1992, after the tragic murder of Deputy United States Marshal William Degan. It is important to keep these facts in mind. Deputy Marshal Degan's murder, as well as additional information provided by other law enforcement agencies -- which other witnesses have described -- formed the basis upon which the FBI responded to Idaho in August, 1992.