Stephen Kappes

Stephen R. Kappes is a former high-ranking official in the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and currently the Vice Chairman of Blackwater Worldwide, a private military contractor.

Kappes served in various roles during his time at the CIA, including the Deputy Director of the National Clandestine Service (formerly known as the Directorate of Operations) and the Deputy Director of the CIA.

The National Clandestine Service (NCS) is an arm of the CIA responsible for the clandestine collection of human intelligence (HUMINT) and coordinating covert operations.

One controversy Kappes was involved in was the dispute between the CIA and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence over the destruction of videotapes showing the interrogation of suspected terrorists. Another controversy stemmed from his involvement in controversial CIA renditions and detentions during the War on Terror.

As of the time of writing, Kappes holds the position of Vice Chairman at Blackwater Worldwide, a private military contractor specializing in security, logistics, and training services.