Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel has adopted an unusual style inside the bureau. He has been giving personalised bottles of Kentucky bourbon to FBI staff and civilians during official events.

Reports from The Atlantic, later confirmed by current and former Justice Department employees, said Patel distributed custom-engraved bottles of Woodford Reserve whiskey during work trips and meetings.

‘Ka$h’ branding draws criticism

The bottles reportedly carry the words “Kash Patel FBI Director” along with the FBI shield. Around the seal, the design also uses Patel’s preferred stylised spelling of his name — “Ka$h.”

Some bottles also feature Patel’s signature and the mark “#9,” which refers to his position as the ninth FBI director. Many FBI veterans reportedly disliked the branding. Critics inside the bureau viewed it as excessive self-promotion.

Bottles travelled on official trips

Sources quoted by The Atlantic claimed Patel’s team carried cases of the personalised bourbon on Department of Justice aircraft during official visits. One incident reportedly happened in Milan during a Winter Olympics-related trip. Sources said Patel celebrated with the Team USA hockey team and later left a bottle behind in a locker room.

The report claimed the incident irritated US President Donald Trump, who does not drink alcohol.

Missing bottle sparks search at Quantico

Another incident reportedly took place in March at the FBI training academy in Quantico during a UFC seminar. According to sources, one bourbon bottle went missing. Patel then allegedly ordered a “furious” search to find it.

Comparisons with J Edgar Hoover

Observers have compared Patel’s actions with J. Edgar Hoover, who once handed out souvenir fingerprint cards. However, critics believe Patel has taken merchandising too far. Apart from the bourbon bottles, he has also promoted “Government Gangsters” playing cards and camouflage hoodies through his personal website.

Some officials fear this trend could damage the FBI’s image.

Legal troubles add pressure

The controversy comes at a tense time for Patel. He is currently fighting a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic. The case followed a report that accused him of alcohol-related absences and erratic behaviour.

The FBI has denied claims that it opened an “insider threat” investigation against the journalists behind the report. Still, many people inside the bureau reportedly say tensions remain very high.