NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The New Orleans Sector of the FBI announced the death of former Special Agent in Charge James Bernazzani, who died at the age of 68.
Bernazzani began his career in New Orleans in June 1984 after completing the FBI Academy in Quantico, according to FBI officials. In October 1984, as a new agent, he worked on international and domestic terrorism investigations and was a member of the Special Weapons and Tactical Team (SWAT).
Bernazzani transferred in January 1991 to Washington D.C., where he worked on extraterritorial cases, according to FBI officials, taking action against terrorist actions toward United States citizens in West Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Ultimately, he was promoted to the FBI Headquarters Counterterrorism Section, becoming responsible for the development and maintenance of national strategies countering the international threat.
Bernazzani went on to work counterterrorism-related jobs and the day after the Sept. 11 attacks, FBI officials said he was transferred into a position that would counter any further actions against United States.
“Jim served the American people and this city with honor and distinction for twenty-four years,” said current Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil.
In 2002, he became Deputy Director for Law Enforcement at the Counterterrorism Center, Central Intelligence Agency. In 2003, he became Deputy Director of newly formed Terrorist Threat Integration Center.
From there, FBI officials said he then went on to serve as head of the New Orleans Division from April 13, 2005, to May 9, 2008. During that time, officials said he also acted as Deputy Assistant Director for international terrorism investigations and operations handled by the FBI.
It was said that his 24-year career was centered on leading efforts to identify, penetrate and neutralize organized criminal groups, specifically international terrorists.
“He played a critical role during terrorism investigations including post-9/11 and in helping the city recover after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and we thank him for his spirited service,” said Myrthil.
Bernazzani is survived by a son and a daughter.
His family said funeral arrangements are pending.
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