The Justice Department's prosecution of protesters under a church-protection law faces potential dismissal after defendants argue the case stems from President Donald Trump's political vendetta. Over 30 individuals charged following a January ICE protest at a St. Paul church claim federal authorities targeted them as retribution for opposing Trump's policies. Lawyers allege the charges are part of a selective and vindictive prosecution, citing instances where Trump's directives allegedly incited violence in Minnesota. Key defendants include Nekima Levy Armstrong, a civil rights attorney arrested after protesting ICE operations, and Alex Pretti, a nurse killed by Border Patrol during a protest. The motion highlights disparities in legal treatment, noting Trump pardoned 24 individuals convicted under similar laws while others faced charges. Critics argue the case exemplifies efforts to suppress dissent, with comparisons drawn to past incidents where violent actions against abortion clinics were met with leniency. The dismissal request underscores concerns about government overreach and the chilling effect on lawful protest, as defendants seek transparency into Justice Department motives and evidence of misleading jurors.

Orexo has reached a non-binding agreement with the US Department of Justice to address a lengthy investigation. The settlement outlines potential payments and terms crucial for the company's future.

Attorney General Todd Blanche refused to pledge the Department of Justice's independence from the White House during an interview with NBC’s 'Meet the Press,' sparking debate over his commitment to impartiality. Blanche, who previously represented President Donald Trump in criminal cases, argued that such pledges are unnecessary and potentially contradictory to his duty as a prosecutor. He emphasized that prosecutors should act with integrity and without fear or favor, stating that this has been the DOJ's approach under his leadership. His confirmation faced scrutiny due to past controversies, including mishandling files related to Jeffrey Epstein and oversight of the Anti-Weaponization Fund. When questioned about whether Trump would ever ask him to do something illegal, Blanche denied any such possibility, asserting he has sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution. He also criticized Democrats and the media for perpetuating a false narrative that Trump would coerce him into unethical actions. The discussion highlights tensions between executive power and judicial independence, raising questions about the DOJ's role in political contexts.

Attorney General Todd Blanche issued a legal opinion shortly after his confirmation, asserting that executive privilege extends to private citizens advising the president. This move grants President Donald Trump broad immunity, potentially undermining DOJ independence. The Senate confirmed Blanche 50-49 after Republicans secured written assurances about the department's autonomy. Critics argue the opinion could enable presidential allies to shield communications from congressional subpoenas. Legal experts and media outlets have condemned the ruling as legally dubious, noting it complicates ongoing court battles involving Trump's former advisers like Boris Epshteyn. The American Bar Association challenges the privilege claim, arguing private citizens cannot claim such protections. This development intensifies tensions over executive power, with implications for future investigations into Trump's associates and White House operations.

The confirmation of Todd Blanche as US attorney-general underscores the growing influence of President Donald Trump over federal law enforcement. Despite bipartisan concerns about judicial independence, Blanche's appointment was secured by three Republican senators who believed his close ties to Trump could help rein in the president's erratic behavior. However, Blanche's philosophy aligns with Trump's expansive view of executive power, arguing that the president has a constitutional right to direct the Justice Department under Article II. This stance has drawn criticism from legal experts and former officials, including Barack Obama, who emphasized the importance of an independent attorney-general. During his confirmation hearings, Blanche avoided questioning Trump's legality, instead asserting the president's 'right' to order investigations. While some Republicans, like William Barr, supported Blanche for his potential to temper Trump's impulses, others, such as Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, opposed him for failing to challenge the administration's actions. The debate highlights a broader conflict between executive authority and institutional checks in US governance.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has cleared a major hurdle in his Senate confirmation process, advancing past the Judiciary Committee after weeks of Republican objections. The nomination now faces its final test: securing bipartisan support for his confirmation. Blanche, Trump's former personal lawyer, has prioritized investigations aligned with the administration's agenda, including probes into Russian interference in the 2016 election and cases against political adversaries. However, his confirmation process has been marred by controversies, including a contentious settlement involving Trump and an IRS contractor's tax leak. Blanche recently resolved disputes with key senators like John Cornyn and Thom Tillis by formally rescinding a controversial $1.8 billion fund intended to benefit Trump supporters. While some investigations have slowed during his confirmation, other DOJ units continue pursuing high-profile cases. The department now faces pressure to address allegations of voter fraud ahead of midterms, a challenge Blanche's team must navigate as they await Senate approval.

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon faced backlash after a federal judge dismissed the Justice Department's lawsuit against Portland police. The case, which sought to enforce a 2012 reform agreement, was rejected due to Dhillon's social media post criticizing Portland authorities. U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon ruled that her tone in a tweet and demand letter exhibited 'all the hallmarks of a threat' and attempted intimidation. The judge noted the post appeared to signal to Portland police that non-compliance with Justice Department demands could lead to legal consequences. While the 2012 settlement agreement remains active, courts have previously rejected all 15 of Dhillon's voter roll lawsuits. Her actions have drawn scrutiny amid rumors of her potential promotion to associate attorney general. The ruling highlights tensions between federal oversight and local law enforcement practices, particularly regarding political influence in legal proceedings.

The Trump administration has shared long-withheld evidence related to three shootings by immigration officers in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with local authorities. This development comes after months of secrecy and marks a significant step in the ongoing investigation into the incidents involving Renée Good, Alex Pretti, and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis. Local officials now have access to critical information that could influence charges against the officers involved. The evidence, which was previously withheld, is expected to play a pivotal role in determining the legal outcomes of the cases. This situation highlights the complexities of balancing national security concerns with the rights of individuals affected by such incidents. The sharing of this evidence underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in law enforcement actions, particularly when they involve sensitive operations. As local authorities review the materials, the case may set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and due process.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faced intense scrutiny during his Senate confirmation hearing as lawmakers questioned the legality and implications of a $1.776 billion fund created to compensate Trump allies and a tax immunity deal for the president. Republican Senator John Cornyn raised concerns about the fund's status, noting that Trump had not formally agreed to its cancellation. Blanche defended the fund's shelving, asserting it was never launched and Trump had no authority over it. However, critics argued the fund's existence could be resurrected without written confirmation. The hearing also addressed Trump's tax immunity, which remains in place despite bipartisan criticism. Blanche faced additional questions about the delayed release of Jeffrey Epstein files and the Justice Department's handling of the case. Democratic Senator Chris Coons accused Blanche of prosecuting the president's political enemies and firing prosecutors, while Blanche claimed he inherited a politicized department. The confirmation process is critical for securing Republican support, with key senators like Cornyn and Thom Tillis expressing reservations about the Trump-linked fund. The hearing occurred amid ongoing controversies over the Justice Department's independence and its role in investigating Trump's allies and adversaries.

The National Press Club has condemned the Justice Department's recent subpoenas of journalists from The New York Times, highlighting concerns for press freedom.

WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Justice announced the first resolution secured under the Department’s ongoing national investigation into violations of federal law in connection with the provisi...

DOJ asks D.C. Circuit to vacate seditious‑conspiracy convictions for 12 Proud Boys and Oath Keepers tied to Jan. 6, seeking dismissals with prejudice.

Cole Engineering Services has officially been cleared by the U.S. Department of Justice following an investigation, ensuring robust operations ahead.

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