Unknown: AFOSI Disinformation Campaign Against UFO Researcher
AFOSI officer Richard Doty receives instructions to deceive Senator Harrison Schmitt about the agency's investigation into Paul Bennewitz, while simultaneously conducting a disinformation operation to discredit Bennewitz's observations of classified military projects.
Background
Background
Richard Doty, an AFOSI officer, receives a telephone call from former astronaut and U.S. Senator Harrison Schmitt (R-New Mexico) inquiring about AFOSI's involvement in investigating claims made by UFO researcher Paul Bennewitz.
The Deception
Doty informs Schmitt that AFOSI is not conducting an investigation. However, Doty later admits this statement is false. In reality, AFOSI has instructed him to convince Bennewitz of an impending alien invasion.
True Objective
The Air Force's actual goal is to discredit Bennewitz because he is observing classified military projects. By promoting false alien invasion narratives, authorities aim to undermine his credibility so the public dismisses his observations.
Methods
Doty acknowledges creating fabricated documents distributed to Bennewitz and other UFO researchers. He also admits to breaking into Bennewitz's residence and office as part of the operation.