The top federal prosecutor in Washington D.C. resigned on Tuesday, citing an improper demand from Trump-appointed officials to launch a criminal probe and pursue an asset freeze.
Denise Cheung, the criminal chief at the U.S. Attorney's office, wrote in a letter to interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin that the Trump administration had ordered her to investigate a government contract awarded during Joe Biden's administration and pursue a freeze of the recipient's assets.
Cheung said she refused the order because it was "not based on any legitimate investigative predicate" and would have violated Justice Department policies. She also said she was concerned that the order was politically motivated.
Cheung's resignation is the latest in a series of high-profile departures from the Justice Department under Attorney General William Barr. Barr has been criticized for his handling of several high-profile cases, including the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and the prosecution of former Trump adviser Roger Stone.
9 Comments
Eugene Alta
“It’s refreshing to see an official refuse to participate in politically motivated investigations. Good on her.”
Loubianka
“When orders are driven by partisan motives, the only ethical choice is to put integrity first. Well done, Cheung.”
Noir Black
“This is another example of media sensationalism. There’s no consensus on what constitutes ‘legitimate’ investigative criteria.”
Katchuka
“Finally, someone stands up against political interference. Cheung’s decision shows real commitment to justice.”
KittyKat
“Standing up against unethical directives is never easy. This resignation is a win for transparency and fairness.”
Eugene Alta
“This resignation is proof that not everyone in power will compromise standards for political convenience.”
Loubianka
“Officials in power have to make tough decisions; resignations should be handled behind closed doors, not turned into political theater.”
Rotfront
“When political orders try to dictate investigations, the brave decision to resign protects the integrity of our justice system.”
Stan Marsh
“This article appears to cherry-pick facts to make a scandal out of normal governmental processes.”