The U.S. Department of Justice seized four internet domains linked to Iranian government-backed hacking groups involved in cyberattacks, data theft, and intimidation of dissidents, including threats against individuals in the U.S. These groups, such as Handala and Homeland Justice, have targeted entities like a U.S. medical technology company and foreign governments, using custom malware and psychological warfare tactics. The seizures come amid heightened regional tensions following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, with U.S. officials vowing to continue countering Iranian cyber threats to national security.
Posts tagged as “The Justice Department”
Federal prosecutors in Miami have subpoenaed former FBI Director James Comey as part of a broad Justice Department investigation into alleged misconduct by Obama-era intelligence officials during the 2016 presidential election and subsequent Trump-related probes. The investigation, led by U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones, has issued over 130 subpoenas to former intelligence and law enforcement officials, expanding its scope from 2016 to the present amid claims of a coordinated effort to undermine Trump. While Trump allies describe the probe as uncovering a "grand conspiracy," legal experts highlight challenges due to the statute of limitations, and Comey has previously faced legal scrutiny related to his 2016 actions.
House Democrats walked out of a closed-door briefing with Attorney General Pam Bondi, criticizing the session as a “fake hearing” due to Bondi’s refusal to commit to complying with a subpoena and the lack of transparency. Republicans defended the briefing and accused Democrats of staging a political protest, while tensions flared between members during the session. The dispute highlights ongoing bipartisan concerns over the Justice Department’s handling and release of sensitive Jeffrey Epstein-related documents, with Bondi defending the department’s efforts amid controversy.
A federal judge dismissed grand jury subpoenas targeting Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, ruling they were intended to pressure him rather than investigate legitimate criminal conduct. The investigation, led by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, focused on Powell’s testimony about a costly Federal Reserve renovation project but was criticized as politically motivated, especially given President Trump’s public attacks on Powell for resisting interest rate cuts. The ruling blocks the subpoenas, prompting plans for an appeal from the Justice Department, while some lawmakers welcomed the decision as a check on a weak investigation.
Ed Martin, the Justice Department’s new pardon attorney, has begun reviewing pardon applications for several January 6 defendants, including Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes and prominent Proud Boys members, following discussions with their attorneys. While former President Trump granted pardons to many Jan. 6 defendants, some key figures only received commutations, and the current review process aims for a more measured and fair approach, with input from former clemency recipient Alice Johnson. Meanwhile, ongoing legal and political challenges related to the Trump administration’s legacy continue, including disputes over executive power, election investigations, and immigration litigation.
Attorneys for Columbia University activist Mahmoud Khalil have requested the termination of his deportation proceedings, citing his warrantless arrest by ICE, which the Trump administration has acknowledged. In a related case, a federal judge has ordered the transfer of Tufts University student Rümeysa Öztürk to Vermont, where she is challenging her detainment, despite the government's request to delay the move. These cases highlight the legal challenges and complexities surrounding immigration enforcement, potentially impacting broader discussions about deportation rights and procedures in the United States.
Three federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office in Manhattan have resigned due to pressure from Trump administration allies within the Justice Department over a corruption case involving New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The case, which involved allegations of bribery and fraud, was dismissed in February, leading to tension between career prosecutors and political appointees. The resignations highlight the challenges of maintaining legal integrity amid political pressure and raise concerns about the independence of the Justice Department.
U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis has criticized the Trump administration for providing "vague, evasive, and incomplete" responses in the deportation case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported to a prison in El Salvador. The Justice Department's refusal to fully comply with discovery obligations has drawn further scrutiny from the judiciary and lawmakers, with California Representative Robert Garcia and other Democratic lawmakers visiting El Salvador to advocate for Abrego Garcia's return. This case highlights broader issues with deportation practices and international diplomatic efforts, as well as the complexities faced by individuals in such legal situations.