Sherwin’s interview with CBS’s ’60 Minutes’ drew criticism from officials, though the remarks largely reflect those made by Sherwin earlier in a news conference.
David Laufman, a former Attorney General, reiterated some of the internal criticism, saying: “It’s improper,” adding: [assistant US attorney] to speak to the media about the charges appropriate in a case under investigation. ‘
According to people informed about the matter, Sherwin did not get prior approval from his bosses before the Justice Department prior to the 60-minute interview.
His comments also made it clear that, as CNN reported earlier, prosecutors had recommended filing riots against some of the people charged in the riots, but the case remains under discussion at the Justice Department headquarters.
“I believe the facts do support the charges,” Sherwin said. “And I think as we move forward, more facts will support that.”
Some Justice officials say the comments could help top officials consider whether the department can uphold such a politically controversial complaint, especially given the protection of the first amendment. Others also expressed concern that comments about the ongoing investigation could contaminate the jury pool for cases that are unlikely to be heard for months.
Sherwin – who returned to Miami, where he serves as an assistant to the U.S. Attorney, declined to comment. A DOJ spokesman declined to comment.
Federal prosecutors were successful in the 1930s in enforcing the law against Puerto Rican separatists.
Sherwin in the 60-minute interview also raised the possibility that Trump is facing charges, reiterating his January comments that everything remains on the table for prosecutors. His comments also made it clear that evidence has so far been cut in both ways, with some accused blaming the former president and evidence showing that some acted on their own.
There is no indication that Trump or lawmakers are targets for investigation and the prospect of filing criminal charges for comments inciting the crowd at the pro-Trump rally before the riot is unlikely, U.S. officials say on the case.
Garland’s methodological approach
Garland is only in his first weeks as attorney general and the Capitol resurrection case is one of the most important cases he has promised to make his top priority. Justice officials said he spent many of his days getting information on national security and other matters.
People familiar with Garland’s briefings describe him as interrupting to ask questions, as befits someone who has been a judge for 24 years recently, and in some cases asking Justice Attorneys to explain if and how they are sure. may be that the department can maintain the court. actions.
His administration is expected to be methodical in making decisions, justice officials say. Former Attorney General William Barr was known for making quick decisions and was known to interrupt briefings of their assistants to express his strong position.
One issue that seems to reflect the slower pace under the department’s new management is plea discussions with some accused in the Capitol riots.
The department has asked judges for more time to comply with the so-called discovery requirements, to present evidence to defense attorneys, some of whom are complaining in court. Many of the cases are unlikely to be heard because defendants are facing relatively minor charges that are unlikely to earn the jail time and if allowed by the Justice Department, they want to plead guilty.