The Joe Rogan Experience

#2295 - Scott Payne

356 snips
Mar 27, 2025
Scott Payne, a retired FBI Special Agent with 28 years of experience, shares gripping insights into his undercover work infiltrating extremist groups, including neo-Nazis. He discusses the intense challenges faced by undercover operatives, from drug buys to navigating complex social dynamics within biker gangs. Payne highlights the psychological toll of high-pressure situations and the moral dilemmas encountered on the job. His riveting stories delve into the dark corners of society and the urgent need for empathy and mental health support for law enforcement personnel.
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ANECDOTE

First Undercover Buy

  • Scott Payne's first undercover assignment involved buying crack cocaine.
  • He was nervous and made a rookie mistake by not rolling his window down enough.
INSIGHT

Challenges of Local Undercover Work

  • Local undercover work is difficult due to limited disguises and frequent court appearances.
  • This makes undercover agents easily recognizable within their communities.
ANECDOTE

FBI Undercover Debut

  • Payne's initial FBI undercover role was as a security guard.
  • This was a humbling experience after being a uniformed officer.
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