Federal Prosecution
Federal prosecution refers to the legal process through which the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) investigates, charges, and prosecutes individuals for offenses that violate federal laws or occur on federal property. This process is primarily conducted by United States Attorneys, who serve as the chief federal law enforcement officers in various judicial districts across the country. Federal prosecution encompasses a broad range of criminal offenses, including serious cases involving drug trafficking, fraud, weapons offenses, immigration violations, and public corruption. In recent months, federal prosecutions have surged, highlighting ongoing issues of jurisdiction and enforcement priorities in the U.S. legal system. Recent reports reveal that federal prosecutions have increased significantly, with categories such as immigration cases dominating the landscape. In 2025, more than half of federal prosecutions were related to immigration issues, alongside notable rises in drug-related offenses and corporate misconduct. This growing volume of cases reflects not only the DOJ’s evolving enforcement priorities but also broader discussions on the balance between federal and state jurisdictions, particularly regarding alleged over-federalization of offenses traditionally managed at the local level. The procedural intricacies of federal court procedure, including adherence to federal sentencing guidelines and the exercise of prosecutorial discretion, are pivotal in navigating these complex legal waters. With ongoing debates about the implications of federal prosecutorial strategy and jurisdiction, understanding federal prosecution remains essential for grasping the interactions between law enforcement and the evolving landscape of American justice.
What has the Justice Department ordered regarding the FBI's ability to investigate New York City Mayor Eric Adams?
The Justice Department issued an unprecedented order on Monday prohibiting the FBI from investigating Mayor Eric Adams for any potential crimes. This directive states there shall be 'no further targeting of Mayor Adams or additional investigative steps' - effectively granting him immunity from federal investigation despite his existing indictment on bribery charges. O'Donnell emphasizes this is historically unprecedented, as no one in American history, including past presidents, has ever received such blanket protection from federal investigation. This order, part of what O'Donnell calls 'Trump's political weaponization of the Justice Department,' has been in full force all week.
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MSNBC
03:56 - 06:57
How has Mayor Eric Adams changed his stance on immigration enforcement after his indictment?
Following his federal indictment, Mayor Eric Adams promptly announced a significant policy reversal, allowing federal immigration agents access to New York City's largest jail complex. This decision is particularly noteworthy as it contradicts an existing city law that explicitly prohibits such cooperation with immigration authorities. The timing of this policy shift suggests political motivation, as Rachel Maddow pointedly observes that Adams appears eager to please Donald Trump amid his legal troubles. This abrupt change highlights how political pressure can influence policy decisions, especially when officials face serious legal challenges.
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MSNBC
04:51 - 05:07
What historic event involving Eric Adams occurred in September and what were the allegations against him?
In September, Eric Adams became the first sitting New York City mayor ever charged with federal crimes. He was indicted on multiple charges including allegedly accepting fraudulent campaign contributions and engaging in a bribery scheme with agents of the Turkish government. The allegations claim Adams received campaign funds, gifts, and luxury travel from Turkish government representatives in exchange for performing official favors. Prosecutors from the Southern District of New York (SDNY) brought these corruption charges against Adams, essentially accusing him of accepting money he wasn't legally allowed to take and, in some cases, providing official favors in exchange for these illegal benefits.
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MSNBC
01:38 - 02:24
What was Danielle Sassoon's response to the order to drop corruption charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams?
Danielle Sassoon, the acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, firmly refused to comply with the order, writing a remarkable memo to Attorney General Pam Bondi. In her memo, Sassoon stated she could not in good faith defend dismissing the indictment, believing it violated principles of impartiality and fairness in the justice system. Sassoon specifically objected to what she described as a quid pro quo arrangement where charges would be dropped in exchange for Adams' assistance with federal immigration enforcement. She not only refused to drop existing charges but also revealed plans to seek a superseding indictment with additional obstruction charges, based on evidence that Adams had destroyed evidence and provided false information to the FBI.
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MSNBC
06:08 - 10:21
Why did the Justice Department order the charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams to be dropped?
According to Rachel Maddow's reporting, Donald Trump's Justice Department ordered federal prosecutors at the Southern District of New York (SDNY) to drop their case against Mayor Eric Adams, not due to any new exonerating evidence, but because Trump appointees at Main Justice claimed Adams was the victim of political persecution. Notably, the charges were ordered to be dismissed 'without prejudice,' a legal term meaning they could potentially be brought back at a later time. The memo specified that the charges 'shall be reviewed by the confirmed U.S.' leadership, suggesting this decision might be temporary. This has prompted resignations within the SDNY in protest against what appears to be political manipulation of the justice system.
Watch clip answer (00:52m)MSNBC
02:38 - 03:30
What is Kamala Harris's stance on facing challenges?
Kamala Harris firmly believes in confronting challenges head-on rather than retreating. In her own powerful words, 'Do we retreat or do we fight? I say we fight. I intend to fight.' This assertive declaration reflects her resolute character and determination to create meaningful change. As a prosecutor and self-described 'professional legal fighter,' Harris brings her legal expertise and advocacy experience to address issues of justice and equality. Her fighting spirit, shaped by her civil rights upbringing, continues to define her approach to public service and progressive reform.
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Johnny Harris
15:42 - 15:51