True Spies: Espionage | Investigation | Crime | Murder | Detective | Politics The Sociopathic Spy | CIA
Jun 22, 2021
Jim Lawler, a former CIA operations officer with 25 years of experience, shares gripping tales from his covert career. He reveals the art of manipulating emotions and building trust to recruit spies, including a diplomat-turned-asset. Jim reflects on the ethical dilemmas in espionage, such as navigating personal vulnerabilities and the darker motivations behind betrayals. His insights into the moral complexities and emotional toll of covert operations offer a compelling glimpse into the world of intelligence gathering.
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From Law School To Clandestine Service
- Jim Lawler switched from law and family business to join the CIA after a chance conversation with a former case officer. He accepted a large pay cut to become an operations officer despite not fully knowing the job.
Recruitment Is Deliberate Manipulation
- CIA training made Jim realise his role was to manipulate and subvert foreign individuals to betray trusts. He found he both excelled at and enjoyed that work.
The Retired Diplomat Who Opened Doors
- Jim handled a retired diplomat who provided high-value reports from his country's foreign ministry. That asset introduced Jim to a young foreign ministry employee who became a direct source.
