From Seattletimes · · 1m
Justice watchdog skips Reflecting Pool case probe
Lawyers say DOJ inspector general won't investigate Trump-era misconduct in Olympic athlete's case.
In brief
Lawyers say DOJ inspector general won't investigate Trump-era misconduct in Olympic athlete's case. Lawyers claim DOJ inspector general declined to investigate potential misconduct by Trump administration officials in criminal case against former Olympian David Hearn. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Watchdog declines probe
DOJ inspector general declined to investigate handling of criminal case against former Olympian David Hearn.
Lawyers request investigation
Hearn’s lawyers asked for investigations by DOJ and Interior inspectors general over alleged incompetence and misconduct.
Alleged misconduct claims
Lawyers claim witness tampering, obstruction of justice and subornation of false testimony occurred.
Case dismissed
Justice Department dismissed case after new evidence showed Hearn didn’t damage pool’s lining.
Evidence ignored
Lawyers say evidence proving Hearn’s innocence was in DOJ’s possession for weeks and ignored.
Political pressure claims
Lawyers allege prosecutors rushed to indict under political pressure from Trump.
Watchdog's role
Lawyers argue inspector general is best office to investigate misconduct against federal officials.
The short version
Lawyers claim DOJ inspector general declined to investigate potential misconduct by Trump administration officials in criminal case against former Olympian David Hearn.
