A coalition of former Department of Justice attorneys and legal experts is calling for an investigation into Edward R. Martin Jr., the interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, citing alleged ethical violations and misuse of his prosecutorial authority.
In a letter addressed to the D.C. Office of Disciplinary Counsel, the group, which includes former U.S. attorneys and members of the Society for the Rule of Law, asserts that Martin has demonstrated a fundamental misunderstanding of his role. They accuse him of targeting political opponents, aiding defendants he previously represented, and making improper communications, actions they believe undermine the integrity of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Martin, appointed by President Donald Trump earlier this year, has publicly expanded investigations into the January 6 Capitol attack and has compared the prosecution of defendants to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. He has also made controversial statements on social media, referring to himself and his colleagues as “President Trump’s lawyers,” raising concerns about the politicization of his office.
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The letter highlights specific instances where Martin allegedly violated Justice Department rules, including publicly announcing investigations into perceived political enemies and disclosing information about ongoing probes without proper authorization. Additionally, he is accused of providing legal advice to a defendant his office was prosecuting, potentially breaching conflict-of-interest regulations.
These actions have prompted calls for a thorough investigation to ensure adherence to ethical standards and the impartial administration of justice. The D.C. Office of Disciplinary Counsel has yet to announce whether it will pursue a formal inquiry into the allegations against Martin.