Special Counsel to Investigate Trump Administration Lawyer for Possible Misconduct
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- A federal judge in Rhode Island, Melissa R. DuBose, ordered the release of a detainee without knowing he was wanted for homicide in the Dominican Republic, information withheld by Trump administration lawyer Kevin Bolan under Homeland Security Department advice.
- Judge DuBose criticized Bolan for a “serious breakdown” in legal ethics and the district’s chief judge appointed special counsel Niki Kuckes to investigate potential misconduct by Bolan.
- The investigation could lead to disciplinary actions against Bolan, ranging from reprimand to disbarment, depending on findings regarding his duty of candor to the court.
- This incident is part of broader tensions between federal judges and administration lawyers over immigration enforcement, with judges in multiple districts accusing the administration of violating court orders and withholding information.
- Similar disputes have arisen in Washington D.C., Boston, Minnesota, and the District of Columbia, highlighting ongoing conflicts over immigration policy and legal procedures.
