Federal Judge Refers Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner to DOJ for Potential Criminal Investigation
U.S. District Judge Paul Diamond cited evidence of potential false statements, perjury, obstruction of justice, and conspiracy in a murder conviction case.
A federal judge has referred Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and a top deputy, Matthew Stiegler, to the Department of Justice for a possible criminal investigation. U.S. District Judge Paul Diamond made the referral Tuesday, stating that evidence uncovered during a murder conviction case could indicate false statements, perjury, obstruction of justice, and conspiracy.
Neither Krasner nor Stiegler has been charged with a crime. Judge Diamond disqualified both men from the specific case but declined to disqualify the entire District Attorney's office.
Krasner issued a statement disagreeing with the court's findings. "I respectfully and vigorously disagree with the court’s findings of fact and conclusions of law," Krasner said. "I look forward to appealing to the higher court as soon as the law allows. This remains a pending matter, which limits for now my and my office’s ability to respond in the media."
The Department of Justice had not immediately responded to a request for comment.