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 led to the resignation of Danielle Sassoon as Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York?
Danielle Sassoon resigned after refusing to comply with a direct instruction from the Justice Department to dismiss the case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Deputy Attorney General Emil Bovet accepted her resignation in an eight-page letter, stating that her decision was based on continuing to pursue what he described as a 'politically motivated prosecution' despite explicit instructions to drop it. The letter criticized Sassoon for losing sight of her oath to the Department of Justice by suggesting she retained discretion to interpret the Constitution contrary to department directives. As a result of this conflict, Sassoon's resignation was accepted, though Mayor Adams' case technically remains active and has not been officially dropped.
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Fox News
00:48 - 01:29
Do federal prosecutors have enough to make their case against Sean 'Diddy' Combs?
According to attorney Nima Ramani, federal prosecutors do have enough evidence to make their case against Diddy. The trial is expected to begin on May 5th or shortly thereafter, partly because Combs is reportedly not doing well in custody and wants to get the proceedings started. The prosecution's case appears substantial, with plans to call approximately 100 different victims to testify. This large number of witnesses suggests prosecutors have built a comprehensive case with multiple accusers, potentially strengthening their position despite some allegations dating back many years.
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Law&Crime Network
11:49 - 12:13
Who is Denise Chung and why is her resignation significant?
Denise Chung is the head of the Justice Department's Washington, D.C. criminal division who recently announced her resignation. While not a household name, Chung holds a crucial position overseeing federal criminal prosecutions in the nation's capital through the U.S. attorney's office. Her role is particularly significant as this office handles major federal cases including terrorism and corruption matters. Chung's departure adds to a wave of resignations within the DOJ, highlighting tensions amid controversial leadership nominations and concerns about partisan decision-making, potentially impacting high-profile federal prosecutions in Washington D.C.
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CBS News
02:14 - 02:42
Who is Ed Martin and what concerns does his appointment as U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. raise?
Ed Martin, nicknamed 'The Eagle,' is a controversial figure appointed as U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. He's known as a 'stop the steal' advocate, election denier, and defender of January 6th defendants. Martin is viewed as a particularly ardent MAGA loyalist who was put in place shortly after Trump's inauguration and expedited the dropping of Capitol riot cases. His appointment has raised significant concerns among longtime, tenured members of the Washington, D.C. prosecutor's office. Having someone with Martin's political background in charge of prosecutions in the nation's capital is seen as problematic for career federal prosecutors who prioritize the impartial administration of justice.
Watch clip answer (00:26m)CBS News
03:16 - 03:42
What is happening with the corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams?
The Justice Department has made an unprecedented decision to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, creating significant fallout. This controversial move has prompted federal prosecutors to step down in protest, demonstrating the serious nature of the disagreement within the department. CBS News Department of Justice Correspondent Scott McFarlane is providing coverage on this developing situation, which appears to involve both legal and political dimensions. The case dismissal is pending before a judge, with the resignation of key officials including Denise Chung, head of the DOJ's Washington D.C. criminal division, highlighting the extraordinary nature of this decision.
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CBS News
00:17 - 00:31
What is the significance of Denise Chung's resignation from the Department of Justice?
Denise Chung's resignation as head of the DOJ's Washington D.C. criminal division represents a significant development within a broader pattern of high-profile departures since Inauguration Day. While not a household name, Chung oversaw critical federal criminal prosecutions in the nation's capital, handling weighty cases including terrorism and corruption. Her exit is part of what the correspondent describes as a 'purge' of Justice Department officials, raising concerns about the continuity and direction of important federal prosecutions. This trend suggests significant restructuring within the DOJ that could impact how major cases are handled in Washington.
Watch clip answer (00:51m)
CBS News
02:11 - 03:02