Denise Cheung, head of the criminal division at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C., has resigned. She stepped down after facing pressure to open an investigation into a Biden-era government contract. Her departure raises concerns about political influence in federal prosecutions.
“I took an oath to uphold the law without fear or favor,” Cheung wrote in her resignation letter. She stated that she would not pursue cases without legal justification. Her decision comes amid growing concerns about political interference in the Justice Department.
The pressure reportedly came from interim U.S. Attorney Ed Martin. He directed Cheung to freeze assets and issue subpoenas related to an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) funding initiative. She refused, citing a lack of evidence.
Martin was recently nominated by President Donald Trump for the permanent U.S. Attorney position. He previously defended individuals charged in the January 6 Capitol riot. His appointment has sparked criticism from legal experts.
Some Justice Department officials have expressed concerns over Martin’s actions. They argue that his approach undermines prosecutorial independence. Others fear that political considerations are driving federal investigations.
Cheung’s resignation follows other high-profile departures in the Justice Department. Prosecutors in New York recently stepped down over similar concerns. These resignations highlight tensions between career attorneys and political appointees.
The Justice Department has not commented on Cheung’s departure. A spokesperson said that all investigations follow legal standards. However, critics argue that recent cases show a pattern of political pressure.
Legal experts say resignations like Cheung’s could impact future prosecutions. They warn that political interference weakens public trust in the justice system. Some believe Congress should investigate these developments.
The Biden-era EPA contract under scrutiny involved billions in environmental funding. Trump administration officials have accused the previous administration of mismanaging funds. However, no formal charges have been filed.
Federal prosecutors handle a wide range of cases, from corruption to financial crimes. Political pressure on these cases can influence outcomes. Legal analysts say this trend is troubling.
A former Justice Department official called Cheung’s resignation “a warning sign.” They argued that independent prosecutors are facing growing pressure. Some fear that career attorneys will be replaced with politically loyal officials.
Cheung has not spoken publicly since her resignation. Her departure underscores the challenges facing prosecutors handling politically sensitive cases. The Justice Department’s response to these concerns remains unclear.
Martin has defended his actions, calling them “necessary steps in pursuing justice.” He denies accusations of political bias. His nomination for the permanent U.S. Attorney role is awaiting Senate confirmation.
Lawmakers are divided over Martin’s appointment. Some support his nomination, citing his legal experience. Others argue that his background raises ethical concerns.
Federal watchdog groups have called for an independent review of the situation. They want to ensure that prosecutorial decisions remain free from political influence. Some are urging Congress to hold hearings on the matter.
The Justice Department’s independence has been a long-standing issue. Previous administrations have also faced accusations of political interference. Some legal scholars argue that new safeguards are needed.
For now, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington faces increased scrutiny. Martin is expected to continue leading investigations. The long-term impact of these resignations remains uncertain.
Future cases handled by the office will be closely watched. Legal experts believe the outcome could shape public trust in federal prosecutions. The Justice Department’s actions in the coming months will be critical.
