He is also a former consultant to the Intelligence Directorate of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In January, 2008, Mr. Coughlin, who has an expertise in the sources of Islamic terror and uses of Islamic law, was not renewed to his position at the Department of Defense. While no one in his chain of command disputed the veracity, accuracy or balance of his lectures and briefings, it is widely believed that Mr. Coughlin was compelled to leave his position because his views were considered politically unacceptable. Mr. Coughlin currently serves as a United States Army Reserve Major specializing in military intelligence.