On May 13, 2026, Ashbrook Byrne Kresge Flowers LLC (ABKF) Partner Carol A. Thompson represented James Erdman III, a senior CIA operations officer and decorated military veteran, during his testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. The full committee hearing, titled “Whistleblower Testimony on the COVID Coverup,” was convened by Chairman Rand Paul (R-KY) in the Senate Dirksen Building.
Erdman, who recently completed a joint duty assignment with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence’s Director’s Initiatives Group (DIG), testified under subpoena regarding the intelligence community’s investigation into the origins of COVID-19. His testimony detailed allegations that the CIA suppressed analysts’ assessments favoring a laboratory-leak origin, retaliated against personnel who maintained that conclusion, and illegally monitored the communications of investigators and whistleblowers.
Erdman praised Thompson’s commitment to his case: “When I decided to come forward, I knew I needed counsel who wouldn’t flinch. Carol stood with me from the very beginning, not because it was easy but because it was right. Every American who steps forward to tell the truth deserves that kind of representation.”
“Whistleblowers play a critical role in upholding the rule of law and protecting the public,” said Thompson. “Mr. Erdman is a career intelligence officer and military veteran who testified at great personal and professional risk because he believes the American people deserve the truth. ABKF is honored to stand behind him.”
Whistleblowers play a critical role in upholding the rule of law and protecting the public. ABKF is honored to advocate for them.
About Ashbrook Byrne Kresge Flowers LLC
Ashbrook Byrne Kresge Flowers LLC was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. The firm offers outside general counsel, litigation, and public interest legal services to entrepreneurs, local governments, closely held businesses, and individuals.
Contact: Ashbrook Byrne Kresge Flowers LLC at (513) 201-5775 or admin@abkf.com
