Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations and Casualties during President Trump's Administration (USPACOM - US Pacific Command)
| Tracking # |
2023-F-070 2023-F- 070 2023-F-068 |
| Multi Request | Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations and Casualties during President Trump's Administration |
| Submitted | April 15, 2023 |
| Est. Completion | None |
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Communications
From: Jordan Lassiter
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
Related to the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones during President Trump’s administration in Yemen, Somalia, Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Please note that this is a multi-agency request, and I am also seeking interagency documents pertaining to the matter.
Specifically, I am seeking:
Drone readiness documents, including but not limited to: mission plans, flight logs, and maintenance records.
Inspection records, including but not limited to: pre-flight inspections, post-flight inspections, and accident reports.
Information on drone operations, including but not limited to: the number of drones in operation, the types of missions they were used for, and the duration of the missions.
Casualties, including but not limited to: the number of people killed or injured by drone strikes, and any collateral damage caused by the strikes.
Any other documents or records related to the use of drones in the aforementioned countries during President Trump’s administration, including interagency communications, agreements, or collaborations.
Please note that I am seeking access to both classified and unclassified materials. If any of the requested materials are classified, I request that they be reviewed for declassification.
I would like to bring to your attention several cases that have set important precedents for FOIA requests:
National Security Archive v. CIA, No. 1:15-cv-00224 (D.D.C. 2015): This case held that the CIA could not withhold drone-related documents solely based on a "Glomar" response.
New York Times Co. v. Department of Justice, No. 13-422 (2d Cir. 2014): This case held that the Department of Justice could not withhold a legal memorandum addressing the scope of the authority to conduct targeted killings of U.S. citizens abroad using drones.
Given these legal precedents, I kindly request that you do not withhold, redact, or delete any responsive records without proper justification under FOIA exemptions. In the event that certain records or parts thereof are withheld, please provide a detailed explanation for each instance of withholding, including reference to the specific exemption(s) claimed.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 20 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
Jordan Lassiter
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Dear Jordan,
Attached is our acknowledgement or response to your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email at pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil<mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> or by phone at 1-808-477-7774. The hours of operation are 0700-1500 Hawaii Standard Time (HST), Monday through Friday excluding Federal Holidays.
Sincerely,
Ms. Pamela G. Best
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Specialist
HQ, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, J06
Camp Smith, HI
pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil<mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> INDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox
808.477.7774 FOIA Desk
-
~WRD000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Good afternoon,
Attached is a follow-up to our Acknowledgement letter sent on May 12, 2023.
If you have any questions, we can be reached at pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil<mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> or (808) 477-7774. Our hours are 0700-1500 (HST), Monday - Friday except Federal Holidays.
Thank you,
Ms. Best
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Good Afternoon,
Attached is a follow-up to our Acknowledgement letter sent on May 12, 2023 and
Follow-Up letter sent on July 19, 2023.
If you have any questions, we can be reached at
<mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil.
V/r,
Geo
Geovanny A. Rojas
LTC, USA | Deputy Staff Judge Advocate
U.S. Indo-Pacific Command
NIPR: geovanny.a.rojas@pacom.mil
SIPR: geovanny.rojas@pacom.smil.mil
COMM: 808-477-7454
CELL: 703-624-0218
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Good Afternoon,
Attached is a follow-up update to our Acknowledgement letter sent on May 15, 2023, Update letter sent on July 19, 2023, and Update letter sent on August 22, 2023.
If you have any questions, we can be reached at <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil.
Sincerely,
Geovanny A. Rojas
FOIA Clerk, USINDOPACOM
<mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil INDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox
CAUTION: The information contained in this email and any accompanying attachments may contain Freedom of Information Act protected information, including attorney-client or attorney work product privileged information. This information may not be released outside of the Department of Defense without prior authorization from the Freedom of Information Act Office (J06 FOIA), United States Indo-Pacific Command. If you are not the intended recipient of this information, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on this information is prohibited. If you received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately by return email (see 5 U.S.C. § 552).
-
~WRD000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Thank you for contacting the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Office.
NOTICE: We are experiencing resouce shortages and will process your request as quickly as possible. We ask for your patience during this unusual circumstance.
Please be advised - all requests are processed on a FIRST-IN FIRST-OUT basis.
If you would like to submit a FOIA request, please do so electronically using the U.S. Department of Justice National FOIA Portal (https://www.foia.gov/ <https://usg01.safelinks.protection.office365.us/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.foia.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7Cmajesta.m.gregory.mil%40us.navy.mil%7C1922c767afa543b56aa908dbd64c82ec%7Ce3333e00c8774b87b6ad45e942de1750%7C0%7C0%7C638339396319807611%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=38sWPXLDGVz0HkmUcVzrhJhH98HKRylZtFid5Gw6lfY%3D&reserved=0> ). Select the 'Start your request' option, then select an agency from the “Index of government agencies A to Z,” from the first dropdown select "D,” and from the second dropdown select “Department of Defense,” and from the third dropdown select “U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.” Finally, to begin your request select “Start FOIA Request” located on the right side of the webpage.
Any questions, please contact the USINDOPACOM FOIA Office at PACOM.FOIA.FCT@pacom.mil <mailto:PACOM.FOIA.FCT@pacom.mil> .
This inbox is intended for the sole purpose of the FOIA. All other message types and solicitations are automatically deleted.
Sincerely,
Majesta M. Gregory
FOIA Clerk, USINDOPACOM
<mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil INDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox
CAUTION: The information contained in this email and any accompanying attachments may contain Freedom of Information Act protected information, including attorney-client or attorney work product privileged information. This information may not be released outside of the Department of Defense without prior authorization from the Freedom of Information Act Office (J06 FOIA), United States Indo-Pacific Command. If you are not the intended recipient of this information, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on this information is prohibited. If you received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately by return email (see 5 U.S.C. § 552).
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Good morning,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received. We will provide you with a more substantive response once we conduct a thorough assessment of your request. The actual processing time of your request will depend on its complexity, sensitivity, volume, and/or the need for consultation with other components/agencies. Any fees associated with researching and responding to your request may be assessed in accordance with DD Form 2086.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email at <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil.
Sincerely,
Majesta M. Gregory
FOIA Clerk, USINDOPACOM
<mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil INDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox
CAUTION: The information contained in this email and any accompanying attachments may contain Freedom of Information Act protected information, including attorney-client or attorney work product privileged information. This information may not be released outside of the Department of Defense without prior authorization from the Freedom of Information Act Office (J06 FOIA), United States Indo-Pacific Command. If you are not the intended recipient of this information, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in reliance on this information is prohibited. If you received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately by return email (see 5 U.S.C. § 552).
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
January 31, 2024:
Re: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email at pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> .
Very respectfully,
Rose Greco
Freedom of Information Act Program Manager
Building 20, Room 315
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861
Telephone: (808) 477-0995
DSN: 315-477-0995
NIPR Email: rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil>
SIPR Email: rose.k.greco@pacom.smil.mil
USINDOPACOM FOIA MAILBOX: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
January 31, 2024:
Re: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email at pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> .
Very respectfully,
Rose Greco
Freedom of Information Act Program Manager
Building 20, Room 315
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861
Telephone: (808) 477-0995
DSN: 315-477-0995
NIPR Email: rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil>
SIPR Email: rose.k.greco@pacom.smil.mil
USINDOPACOM FOIA MAILBOX: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F-068.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
March 5, 2024:
Re: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis. We are currently processing all requests from 2021.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email at pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> .
Very respectfully,
Rose Greco
Freedom of Information Act Program Manager
Building 20, Room 315
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861
Telephone: (808) 477-0995
DSN: 315-477-0995
NIPR Email: rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil>
SIPR Email: rose.k.greco@pacom.smil.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco@pacom.smil.mil>
USINDOPACOM FOIA MAILBOX: pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil>
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
Very respectfully,
Rose Greco
Freedom of Information Act Program Manager
Building 20, Room 315
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861
Telephone: (808) 477-0995
DSN: 315-477-0995
NIPR Email: rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil>
SIPR Email: rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil <mailto:rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil>
JWICS: Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov <mailto:Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov>
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F-068.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
On April 10, 2024:
Subject: RE: [Non-DoD Source] RE: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Re: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis. We are currently processing all requests from 2021.
Very respectfully,
Rose Greco
Freedom of Information Act Program Manager
Building 20, Room 315
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861
Telephone: (808) 477-0995
DSN: 315-477-0995
NIPR Email: rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil>
SIPR Email: rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil <mailto:rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil>
JWICS: Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov <mailto:Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov>
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F-068.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
On May 13, 2024:
Subject: RE: [Non-DoD Source] RE: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Re: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis. We are currently processing all requests from 2022.
Very respectfully,
Rose Greco
Freedom of Information Act Program Manager
Building 20, Room 315
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861
Telephone: (808) 477-0995
DSN: 315-477-0995
NIPR Email: rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil> <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil>
SIPR Email: rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil <mailto:rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil> <mailto:rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil>
JWICS: Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov <mailto:Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov> <mailto:Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov>
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil>
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F-068.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
On June 17, 2024:
Subject: RE: [Non-DoD Source] RE: Freedom of Information Act Request #2023-F-068
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis. We are currently processing all requests from 2022.
Very respectfully,
Rose Greco
Freedom of Information Act Program Manager
Building 20, Room 315
Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861
Telephone: (808) 477-0995
DSN: 315-477-0995
NIPR Email: rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil <mailto:rose.k.greco.civ@us.navy.mil>
SIPR Email: rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil <mailto:rose.greco@pacom.smil.mil>
JWICS: Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov <mailto:Rose.K.Greco2@coe.ic.gov>
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil or indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil <mailto:indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil>
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F-068.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Greetings,
Our office sent a request for clarification on July 12, 2023 to “ <mailto:requests@muckrock.com> requests@muckrock.com “ which was indicated as your preferred email address in your initial request. If this is no longer your preferred email please let our office know so that we can update our records for further communication regarding your request.
I have copied the request for clarification into this email for your convenience. Please see below.
“This email is in regard to your FOIA request our office received on May 8, 2023, assigned control number 2023-F-068. In your request, you sought: “records, documents, or emails with keywords: deep fake, digital deception, fake technology, blockchain, deepfakes, and/or deepfake. Dates: January 2019 until the processing of this request”
Upon further review of your request, we need clarification before processing. Your request is too broad. Please state which specific U.S. Indo-Pacific Command records you are seeking, including context and background. This will enable our office to conduct a thorough search for responsive records to your request.
Please provide further clarification in response to this email.”
Additionally, as indicated in our initial acknowledgement letter, requests will be processed on a first-in-first-out basis.
Very Respectfully,
Elisha (Elle) Teufel
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Analyst
HQ, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, J06
Camp H.M. Smith, HI 96861
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> or indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil <mailto:indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil>
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
-
~WRD000
From: Jordan Lassiter
Subject: Clarification of FOIA Request 2023-F-068
Dear Elisha (Elle) Teufel,
Thank you for your email regarding my FOIA request, assigned control number 2023-F-068.
I am writing to address the confusion surrounding the nature of my request. It appears there has been a mix-up, as the request you referenced involving deep fakes does not pertain to my original submission.
To clarify, my original request submitted on April 15, 2023, is as follows:
Subject: Freedom of Information Act Request: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations and Casualties during President Trump’s Administration (USPACOM - US Pacific Command)
I am seeking records related to the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones during President Trump’s administration in Yemen, Somalia, Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan. This is a multi-agency request, and I am also seeking interagency documents pertaining to the matter.
Specifically, I am seeking:
1. Drone readiness documents, including but not limited to mission plans, flight logs, and maintenance records.
2. Inspection records, including but not limited to pre-flight inspections, post-flight inspections, and accident reports.
3. Information on drone operations, including but not limited to the number of drones in operation, the types of missions they were used for, and the duration of the missions.
4. Casualty records, including but not limited to the number of people killed or injured by drone strikes, and any collateral damage caused by the strikes.
5. Other documents or records related to the use of drones in the aforementioned countries during President Trump’s administration, including interagency communications, agreements, or collaborations.
Please note that I am seeking access to both classified and unclassified materials. If any of the requested materials are classified, I request that they be reviewed for declassification.
I referenced several legal precedents in my request to highlight the importance of transparency and compliance with FOIA:
• National Security Archive v. CIA, No. 1:15-cv-00224 (D.D.C. 2015): This case held that the CIA could not withhold drone-related documents solely based on a “Glomar” response.
• New York Times Co. v. Department of Justice, No. 13-422 (2d Cir. 2014): This case held that the Department of Justice could not withhold a legal memorandum addressing the scope of the authority to conduct targeted killings of U.S. citizens abroad using drones.
Given these precedents, I kindly request that you do not withhold, redact, or delete any responsive records without proper justification under FOIA exemptions. In the event that certain records or parts thereof are withheld, please provide a detailed explanation for each instance of withholding, including reference to the specific exemption(s) claimed.
Please confirm that you have received this clarification and that the original request is being processed. If there are any further questions or if additional clarification is needed, do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Very Respectfully,
Jordan Lassiter
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Jordan Lassiter,
Our records indicate that your request number is 2023-F- 070. Please use this number in all your future communications. Further, as indicated in previous communications from our office, we received your request on May 12, 2023. Please use this information when corresponding further on your request as this enables our office to better locate your request and assist you. I have attached our office’s initial communications for your reference.
As indicated in our initial acknowledgement letter, requests will be processed on a first-in-first-out basis.
Very Respectfully,
Elisha (Elle) Teufel
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Analyst
HQ, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, J06
Camp H.M. Smith, HI 96861
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil or <mailto:indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil> indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
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~WRD393
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F- 070.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email.
Very Respectfully,
Elisha “Elle” Teufel (She/Her)
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Analyst
HQ, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, J06
Camp H.M. Smith, HI 96861
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil> pacom.foia.fct@pacom.mil or <mailto:indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil> indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
-
~WRD000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F- 070.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F- 070.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Greetings,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email.
Very Respectfully,
Elisha “Elle” Teufel (She/Her)
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Analyst
HQ, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, J06
Camp H.M. Smith, HI 96861
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil> indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
-
~WRD000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on April 17, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #2023-F- 070.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Aloha,
Your request is in our queue and will be processed in the order it was received.
As stated in our Acknowledgement Letter – all requests are processed on a ‘First in, First out’ basis.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact the INDOPACOM FOIA office by email.
Very Respectfully,
Elisha “Elle” Teufel (She/Her)
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Analyst
HQ, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, J06
Camp H.M. Smith, HI 96861
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil> indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
-
~WRD000
From: USPACOM - US Pacific Command
Aloha,
This is in response to your Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request received May 12, 2023, in which you sought to obtain; “Records related to the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones during President Trump’s administration in the Philippines, including drone readiness documents, mission plans, flight logs, and maintenance records, inspection records.”
U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has conducted a search of its records but did not locate any responsive records to your request.
At this time we are administratively closing your request. We have not assessed any processing fees or administrative costs.
If you have questions concerning any aspect of your request, you may contact this office at indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil; or by mail at HQ USINDOPACOM, Attn: J06 FOIA, Box 64022, Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii 96861-4022.
Very Respectfully,
Elisha “Elle” Teufel (She/Her)
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Analyst
HQ, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, J06
Camp H.M. Smith, HI 96861
USINDOPACOM FOIA Mailbox: <mailto:indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil> indopacom.hmsmith.pcj6.mbx.foia@us.navy.mil
This email and all attachments may contain personal information covered by the Privacy Act (PA) of 1974. Please ensure this information is protected from unauthorized access and/or disclosure. This email is intended only for the addressee(s) named above and may contain information protected from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, and/or the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a. Reviewing, copying, distributing, or otherwise disseminating this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the sender. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this email, and delete the original message from your computer.
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image001
From: Jordan Lassiter
Ms. Joo Chung
Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Privacy Civil Liberties and Transparency (PCLT)
Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD)
4800 Mark Center Drive
Attention: PCLFD, FOIA Appeals, Mailbox #24
Alexandria, Virginia 22350-1700
Subject: FOIA Appeal for Request Ref. No. 2023-F-070
Dear Ms. Chung,
I am appealing the response from U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) regarding my Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request (Ref. No. 2023-F-070). The response stated that no responsive records were located following a search. I respectfully assert that this conclusion is in error and request a detailed review of this appeal.
1. Insufficient Search Scope and Failure to Meet Reasonable Search Standards
Under 5 U.S.C. § 552(a)(3)(C), agencies are required to conduct searches that are “reasonably calculated to uncover all relevant documents.” In National Security Counselors v. CIA, 960 F. Supp. 2d 101 (D.D.C. 2013), the court held that an agency must provide sufficient detail to show that a search was adequate, including describing systems searched and the methodologies used.
USINDOPACOM’s response fails to detail:
The repositories searched, such as operational archives or electronic communications databases.
Search terms employed, which could have omitted key terms such as "Marawi," "Operation Pacific Eagle," "ISR operations," or "South China Sea UAV patrols."
Consultation with related commands or units, despite their direct involvement in UAV activities.
2. Records Likely Exist Based on Specific Operations and Jurisdiction
USINDOPACOM has operational oversight across a region where UAVs were widely reported as being deployed during the specified time period. This includes but is not limited to:
Philippines (Mindanao Region)
Marawi Siege (2017): U.S. drones were reportedly deployed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) during the five-month battle between Philippine forces and ISIS-linked groups. Public reports, including statements from the Department of Defense and Philippine officials, confirm UAV support during this conflict.
Operation Pacific Eagle-Philippines (OPE-P): Initiated in 2017, this operation provided counter-terrorism support to the Philippines and specifically included UAV deployments as part of maritime patrols and ISR missions.
South China Sea Operations
UAV Maritime Patrols: USINDOPACOM oversees operations involving UAVs monitoring contested regions such as Mischief Reef, Scarborough Shoal, and the Spratly Islands. Surveillance in these areas during the Trump administration is well-documented in public reports, suggesting that responsive records should exist.
Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs): UAVs were likely used for reconnaissance to support FONOPs conducted by U.S. naval forces during the requested timeframe.
3. Failure to Expand Search to Subordinate or Related Units
USINDOPACOM works with various subordinate units and commands, many of which are directly involved in the operations referenced above. Precedent requires agencies to expand searches where there is reason to believe additional custodians may possess relevant records (Oglesby v. U.S. Dep’t of Army, 920 F.2d 57, 68 (D.C. Cir. 1990)).
Potential repositories include:
Special Operations Command Pacific (SOCPAC): Directly responsible for counter-terrorism missions and drone deployments in the Philippines.
Defense Attaché Office (Manila): Likely involved in coordinating UAV missions with the Philippine government.
Joint Task Forces (e.g., Task Force 70): Responsible for South China Sea maritime domain awareness operations.
USINDOPACOM’s failure to confirm whether these units were contacted undermines the adequacy of their search.
4. Case Law Supporting Renewed and Expanded Searches
Several legal precedents support my appeal for a more comprehensive and transparent search process:
Morley v. CIA, 508 F.3d 1108 (D.C. Cir. 2007): Agencies must demonstrate that their search was thorough and targeted toward uncovering all relevant records.
Amnesty Int’l USA v. CIA, 728 F. Supp. 2d 479 (S.D.N.Y. 2010): Agencies cannot rely on conclusory statements about the absence of records; they must substantiate their claims with detailed explanations of search efforts.
Nation Magazine v. Dep’t of State, 71 F.3d 885 (D.C. Cir. 1995): Agencies are obligated to direct their search efforts to the offices or custodians most likely to have responsive records.
5. Remedy Requested
To resolve this matter, I respectfully request the following:
A renewed search that explicitly includes:
Records from subordinate commands such as SOCPAC and Task Force 70.
Operational logs, readiness reports, and ISR data related to the Marawi conflict, OPE-P, and South China Sea patrols.
A detailed account of the search methodology, including terms used, systems searched, and any limitations encountered.
If records are located but withheld, a comprehensive Vaughn Index specifying the exemptions claimed under 5 U.S.C. § 552(b).
I have attached a copy of my original request, USINDOPACOM’s response, and this appeal letter for your reference. Should additional clarification or information be required, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you for your attention to this appeal.
Sincerely,
Jordan Lassiter
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