The Federal Bureau of Investigation has fired five analysts who were involved in creating a controversial internal intelligence memo about "Radical Traditionalist Catholic" ideology, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The analysts were terminated for their role in developing the 2023 memo, which was later withdrawn by the agency. The document had examined what the FBI characterized as extremist elements within traditionalist Catholic communities.

The memo sparked significant criticism from Republican lawmakers and Catholic organizations when its contents became public. Critics argued that the document unfairly targeted Catholics and represented government overreach into religious communities.

The FBI has not publicly commented on the specific reasons for the terminations or provided details about the disciplinary process. The firings represent one of the most significant personnel actions taken by the bureau in response to the controversial intelligence product.

The original memo was produced by the FBI's Richmond field office and was intended for internal use only. However, after facing mounting pressure from Congress and religious liberty advocates, the FBI officially withdrew the document and acknowledged that it did not meet the bureau's standards.