FBI Director Kash Patel presented then Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Reece Kershaw with a 3D-printed imitation pistol during a visit to Australia and New Zealand in July 2025. The gift was initially displayed proudly in the commissioner's office but was ordered destroyed within months by Kershaw's successor, Krissy Barrett.
Gift Details and Initial Reception
Documents released by the AFP under freedom of information laws reveal that Patel gave the pistol to Kershaw during the US agency director's trip. Internal communications show excitement among AFP staff, with one text message stating, "Directors gift to the boss!! 3D," alongside a photo. An email from a staff member in Kershaw's office noted, "Thanks so much for your help over the last two days with the FBI gun – now being displayed proudly in the commissioner's office!" The photos were redacted to avoid damaging international relations.
Destruction Ordered by New Commissioner
An AFP spokesperson confirmed that Commissioner Krissy Barrett ordered the destruction of the gift, described as "a challenge coin display featuring a 3D-printed imitation pistol," after she took office in October 2025. The AFP's forensic firearms team examined the item and verified it as an inoperable imitation pistol. The gift registry document notes that the gun "has been destroyed on advice from ACT Firearms Registry."
Similar Incidents in New Zealand
Last year, New Zealand media reported that three replica pistols gifted by Patel to local officials had to be destroyed under the country's gun laws. New Zealand law enforcement agencies described the replicas as "a challenge coin display stand" with a 3D-printed inoperable weapon, but after examination, they were destroyed due to potential operability.
Other Gifts and Context
Kershaw did receive approval to retain a bottle of Woodford Reserve bourbon worth between A$51 and A$100 upon retirement. The Atlantic reported that Patel has engraved his name and title on bottles of this brand with an FBI shield. An FBI spokesperson stated that such commemorative items are a common practice and that Patel followed ethical guidelines.
Patel's visit to Australia focused on combating transnational crime, cyber threats, and other global issues, as noted by the US embassy in Australia.
