Josh Smith departs Federal Bureau of Prisons as deputy director

Josh Smith, the deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, has abruptly announced his departure from the agency. Smith, a former inmate who received a presidential pardon for drug-related crimes from Donald Trump in 2021, did not provide a specific reason for leaving his position.

During his year-long tenure, Smith worked to overhaul bureau staffing and improve rehabilitative services for inmates. He noted that he helped replace approximately 70% of the executive staff. However, his leadership was marked by a tense relationship with some employees, and questions were raised by staff regarding contracts awarded during his time in office.

BOP Director William Marshall formally announced the departure to staff on Tuesday. In a social media post, Smith expressed gratitude to President Trump for the opportunity to serve in the administration.