One theory why ousted FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey has clammed up

For the past two weeks, Florida journalists have sought details of his illegal ouster from FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey. But since he spoke on the record with journalists last week and strongly implied that Gov. Rick Scott was “lying,” Gerald Bailey has clammed up.

Frustrated journalists have phoned, texted, emailed and tried to reach him, to no avail. Gerald Bailey isn’t talking anymore. The question is, why?

According to U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, federal authorities are looking into the matter. And now, even The New York Times has noted that an inquiry is being sought in the case of Rick Scott’s political meddling.

How does this relate to Gerald Bailey? One clue might be found in the United States Justice Department Victim Witness Handbook:

“You may discuss the case with anyone you wish. The choice is yours, but it is not always a good idea. Be sure you know to whom you are talking when you discuss the case. If a defendant approaches you and you find this upsetting, please tell the Antitrust Division attorney immediately. While you may discuss the case with the media if you wish, we encourage you not to do so since you are a potential witness in a criminal case and the rights of the government and the defendant to a fair trial could be jeopardized by pre-trial publicity.”

The existence of a federal investigation is hard to prove, and the FBI generally doesn’t comment on such matters. But Bailey would know, and so far, he isn’t talking.