Gary Noesner

Gary Noesner is a main character on Waco. Noesner is one of the FBI’s top negotiators and the head of the Crisis Negotiation Unit. At Waco, Noesner quickly finds himself fighting a two-front war. He must contend with both the FBI tactical division’s growing impatience and the Branch Davidians’ distrust of law enforcement. He is portrayed by Michael Shannon.

Biography
Gary is first introduced in his criminal negotiation class. He teaches the class that the most real key is to listen, and how they say it is just as important as what they say. Hardwick comes in and sends him to Ruby Ridge to deal with Mitch Decker and the HRT. Upon arriving at Ruby Ridge, he immediately runs into conflict with Mitch. Gary says it's a little premature for an assault. He tells Mitch to give him a chance and talk to him, as that's what he's here for.

Gary begins negotiations, telling Weaver that he should take his day in court and tell the world what really happened at Ruby Ridge. He begins speaking to Vicky, unaware that she is dead, and Randy angrily announces that they killed his wife. Gary is shocked, and tells Mitch that this doesn't help their case.

He brings in Bo Gritz, saying when he can't get a man to trust him, he tries to find someone that he will trust. Bo Gritz is a fellow Green Beret with similar opinions about the government. When Gritz initially refuses, Gary convinces him by saying that Gritz should be scared that if those kids die, when he could've done something to stop it.

After Ruby Ridge, Gary has some concerns about the report. In his opinion, Mitch Decker did not "act appropriately" as the report said. He broke the rules of engagement in the field and should be facing an investigation, not getting a pat on the back. Gary thinks they are at fault, and is worried that they might lose trust from the people as an agency. Hardwick dismisses him, saying that it's a little tricky politically. Gary runs into Mitch in the elevator, and Mitch announces that the Justice Department just upped his budget $10 million.

Gary returns home and begins doubting his abilities. He wonders whether he's been believing that they're better than they actually are. Gary reveals to his wife that they gave $10 million to HRT, and the balance of power is shifting. The FBI is shifting and militarizing, which is something he didn't sign up for. Carol suggests he talk to Hardwick, and Gary says that he ignored his concerns. ("Visions and Omens")