Clapper: Leakers Will Face Lie Detector Tests

Leakers of sensitive national security information now might face the possibility of being issued lie detector tests by the Justice Department, The New York Times reported.

The new rule is meant to discourage leaking information to news organizations, the Justice Department announced, according to the Times.

Even if a criminal case can’t be brought against leakers, intelligence agencies can still conduct their own investigations.

“These efforts will reinforce our professional values by sending a strong message that intelligence personnel always have, and always will, hold ourselves to the highest standard of professionalism,” James Clapper, director of national intelligence, said in a statement, the Times reported.

The new rules will give investigators the authority to call in anyone for a polygraph test about a particular leak, the Times reported.

Rep. Mike Rogers of Michigan, a Republican and House Intelligence Committee chairman, called the move “a good first step,” according to the Times. Congress members are examining more possible legislation.

“The leaking of classified national security information is intolerable at any level, but the parade of recent leaks requires action,” he said. “We must break this culture of unauthorized disclosures.”