Former FBI Agent Discusses Suicide Prevention

At 3:35 pm on Friday, May 5th, 2006, I contemplated suicide. Why?

I had just failed a lie detector test. (I spent hours before the exam learning techniques to try to cheat the exam).

After I failed the test, my lawyer told me I should plan to serve five years in prison for securities fraud and obstruction of justice.

Many white-collar criminal defendants, like me, experience mental health challenges and suicidal thoughts.

Paul Bertrand, a suicide prevention expert, also knows. Paul worked with the FBI for 23 years. For many years, Paul was responsible for mental health support for many FBI employees. Paul was also the lead FBI agent who worked my case from 2005 to 2008.

After my release from prison in 2009, I reconnected with Paul. In 2010, he invited me to speak at the FBI Academy.

Recently, I had the chance to discuss suicide prevention with Paul. We both want to help people recognize when someone needs professional help. Moreover, the insights Paul shared with me can help anyone facing suicidal thoughts.

Paul and I hope you find value in our podcast.

Best,
Justin Paperny