.joycewhitevance: Merrick Garland must follow through with his commitment to hold all January 6 perpetrators accountable
, “The Department of Justice’s resolve to hold accountable those who committed crimes on Jan. 6, 2021, has not, and will not, wane.” DOJ speaks in a restrained voice when commenting on investigations, because investigations don’t always culminate in prosecutions. That’s how we should want our justice system to work—we want investigators to gather evidence and learn the truth before making decisions about whether the law and the facts warrant prosecution.
Garland seemed to confirm investigation was in progress today, making an important commitment after recapping the department’s prosecutions to date: “The actions we have taken thus far will not be our last. The Justice Department remains committed to holding all Jan. 6 perpetrators, at any level, accountable under law—whether they were present that day or were otherwise criminally responsible for the assault on our democracy. We will follow the facts wherever they lead.
As for those who have criticized him for moving too slowly, Garland admonished that his work would take “as long as it takes and whatever it takes for justice to be done–consistent with the facts and the law.” Prosecutors who have worked on complicated investigations, especially when the law requires proof of a defendant’s state of mind, will understand this for the hard-nosed nod to reality that it is. These cases take time.
Garland’s job today was to close the trust gap that has developed between his Justice Department and the country, speaking to people who have lost faith that the rule of law has enough grit left to hold a former president, one with nothing but disdain for it, accountable. At the same time, Garland knows there is a significant percentage of the country that believes the lies Trump peddles about the election.
Garland has undoubtedly struggled with that problem. But DOJ’s mission is to do what is right, not what is politically expedient. Acting with reserve to avoid the appearance of political interference at the department is a laudable goal, but DOJ’s moral imperative is to unflinchingly prosecute if–and it’s still a big if–there is sufficient admissible evidence to prove serious crimes beyond a reasonable doubt.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Imagine If The Rich Countries That Caused Climate Change Actually Took ResponsibilitySurangel Whipps, president of Palau, argues that in 2022, the rich countries responsible for climate change need to be held accountable.
Read more »
Your ultimate survival guide for staying sober this Dry January and beyond (from someone who's been teetotal since 2018)Could this be the toughest Dry January, ever?
Read more »
Will there be another lockdown in 2022?Will there be another lockdown in January 2022?
Read more »
The best destinations to visit in JanuaryHere’s where to grab some much-needed winter sun or a cosy wintery break
Read more »
Wonderful craft beers could be delivered straight to your door this JanuaryEnjoy craft beers in the comfort of your home with our January beer subscription box, it includes lagers, ales, IPAs and even a tasty snack and beer magazine
Read more »
What the papers say – January 9Sunday’s papers include speculation about a new ‘living with Covid’ strategy as well as the departure of Danny Dyer from EastEnders.
Read more »