A former FBI agent, Paul Raymond Flood, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of cyberstalking, witness tampering, and obstruction of a criminal investigation through bribery. Flood, aged 54 and from Castro Valley, was arrested recently and appeared in federal court for the first time.

The indictment, filed on May 16, 2024, and unsealed today, outlines Flood's alleged misconduct during his tenure as an FBI Special Agent from 2007 to 2019. The charges stem from his interactions with a law student referred to as "Victim-1" or "V-1," whom he met in October 2018. V-1 had sought information about a career with the FBI after being referred by a family member known as "B-1."

Flood is accused of making unwanted romantic advances towards V-1 and engaging in harassing behavior. Allegations include sending a diamond ring to V-1, using numerous phone numbers to contact her persistently, surveilling her and her family, and pressuring B-1 to have V-1 communicate with him.

Despite initial reluctance due to fear of retaliation, V-1 reported Flood's actions in June 2019. This led to Flood's suspension from the FBI and an investigation by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG). During this period, Flood allegedly attempted to obstruct the investigation by intimidating V-1 into not cooperating with authorities. Tactics reportedly included threats of suicide and offers of bribes.

The indictment also accuses Flood of persuading V-1 into agreeing to a sham marriage so she would not testify against him; however, this plan did not materialize.

Flood faces several charges: one count of cyberstalking under 18 U.S.C. § 2261A(2)(B), two counts of witness tampering under different sections of 18 U.S.C. § 1512(b) and (d), and one count each for obstruction by bribery under 18 U.S.C. § 1510(a). If convicted on all counts, he could face significant prison time.

As per legal protocol, an indictment indicates that crimes are alleged but does not establish guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

Flood remains on conditional release pending further court proceedings scheduled for January 15, 2025.

The announcement was made by United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey alongside Zachary Shroyer from DOJ OIG Western Region. Assistant United States Attorney Anne C. Hsieh is leading the prosecution with support from Mimi Lam, Lakisha Holliman, and Helen Yee. The case is based on investigations conducted by DOJ OIG with assistance from the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations.