KGB once attempted to recruit NYPD spokesperson

NEW YORK - The chief spokesman of the New York Police Department (NYPD), Paul Browne, has revealed that he was recruited by the Russian spy outfit KGB in 1973 when he was a student at Columbia University’s journalism school.

Browne acknowledged that he was 24 when the attempt to recruit him for spying was made.

“I met somebody who turned out to be a Soviet KGB agent and, according to the FBI, he saw me as someone who would potentially go on into government and possibly journalism and be in position later on to be of use for the Soviets,” the New York Daily News quoted Browne, as telling reporters on Tuesday.

Browne said he had numerous meetings with a KGB recruiter who introduced him to Soviet officials. Then, he kept the relationship going to pass information back to the FBI.

It might sound scary, Browne said, but the risks were low.

Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly quipped, “I’m very happy that he chose the right side.” (ANI)