The Trump administration has initiated an investigation into prosecutors who handled criminal cases against defendants involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. This move follows President Donald Trump's pledge to seek retribution, as confirmed by sources familiar with an internal memo.
Interim US Attorney in Washington, DC, Ed Martin, has spearheaded this investigation, focusing on prosecutors who brought obstruction charges against rioters. These charges were later dismissed due to a Supreme Court decision last summer. Martin referred to the investigation as a 'special project' and instructed attorneys to provide all relevant information related to the use of 1512 charges.
The memo issued by Martin on Monday mandated that current and former prosecutors submit files, documents, notes, emails, and other pertinent information to two long-term prosecutors in the office. A report on the probe is expected to be submitted by Friday.
Notably, the scope of the demand for documents extends to prosecutors who have since left the US attorney's office, indicating a comprehensive review of past cases.
This development comes amidst significant changes within the Justice Department, with officials linked to high-profile investigations being reassigned. This includes the dismissal of a case against Trump himself regarding his actions to overturn the 2020 presidential election.
Martin, known for his hardline and socially conservative views, was recently appointed to the role and has been vocal in his support for Trump's pardons of January 6 defendants. His involvement in the 'Stop the Steal' movement underscores his alignment with Trump's agenda.
The Justice Department has been contacted for comment on this investigation, which signals a proactive approach by the Trump administration to scrutinize the handling of January 6 cases by prosecutors.
