FBI Director Kash Patel presented a 3D-printed imitation pistol to then-Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Reece Kershaw during a visit to Australia and New Zealand in July 2025. The gift was initially displayed in Kershaw's office but was destroyed months later under the orders of his successor, Krissy Barrett.
Gift Displayed Proudly Before Destruction
Documents released by the AFP under freedom of information laws reveal that Patel gave the replica pistol to Kershaw during the US agency director's trip. Internal communications show AFP staff were excited about the gift. One text message read: "Directors gift to the boss!! 3D," alongside a photo. An email from a staff member in Kershaw's office stated: "Thanks so much for your help over the last two days with the FBI gun – now being displayed proudly in the commissioner's office!"
However, shortly after Krissy Barrett became AFP commissioner in October 2025, she ordered the destruction of the gift. An AFP spokesperson confirmed: "After receipt, the display pistol was examined by the AFP's forensic firearms team, which verified it as an inoperable, imitation pistol. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett ordered the destruction of the gift when she became commissioner in October 2025."
Compliance with Firearms Regulations
The gift registry document included in the release notes that the gun "has been destroyed on advice from ACT Firearms Registry." The AFP described the item as "a challenge coin display featuring a 3D-printed imitation pistol." This action followed similar events in New Zealand, where three replica pistols gifted by Patel to local officials were also destroyed after being deemed potentially operable under New Zealand's gun laws.
According to the AFP documents, Kershaw did receive approval to retain a bottle of Woodford Reserve bourbon worth between A$51 and A$100 upon his retirement. The Atlantic reported that Patel had his name and title engraved on similar bottles with an FBI shield. The FBI defended the practice, with Assistant Director Ben Williamson stating: "The Atlantic's premise is false and misleading. The bottles in question are part of a common practice in the FBI that started well over a decade ago... Director Patel has followed all applicable ethical guidelines and pays for any personal gift himself."
Context of the Visit
Patel's visit to Australia in July 2025 focused on combating transnational crime, cyber threats, and other global issues. Social media posts from the US embassy showed Patel with Sydney's skyline, stating he was "blessed to have Australia as a reliable ally in the region." Kershaw was featured in the video, highlighting the collaborative discussions.
