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DOJ Issues Grand Jury Subpoenas to Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office After Federal Judge Referral
By Drooid · · How we work
Federal Judge Refers DA Larry Krasner to DOJ
The Justice Department has issued grand-jury subpoenas to the office of Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and his top deputy, Matthew Stiegler. The subpoenas follow a referral by U.S. District Judge Paul Diamond, who concluded that the two officials may have violated the law in connection with a murder-conviction case. Diamond’s referral cited possible false statements, perjury, obstruction of justice and conspiracy. No charges have been filed against Krasner or Stiegler.
Background of the Referral
The referral stems from the 2009 conviction of Dennis Johnson for the killing of Kenyatta Smith. After the conviction, the DA’s office sought habeas-corpus relief, arguing ineffective assistance of counsel. Subsequent internal reviews raised concerns about potential conflicts involving Stiegler, prompting the judge to disqualify both men from the case while leaving the broader DA’s office intact. Diamond’s written findings note that Krasner allegedly warned staff of “consequences” should they alert the court to an internal conflict, and that he may have pressured prosecutors to present a false narrative.
Official Statements & Responses
Larry Krasner issued a statement rejecting the judge’s conclusions, describing his disagreement as “respectful and vigorous.” The Justice Department declined to comment on the subpoenas, and Krasner’s office has not responded to requests for further comment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have thus reluctantly concluded that Philadelphia’s highest law enforcement official and one of his top assistants may have violated the law,” — Paul Diamond, district judge
- “I respectfully and vigorously disagree with the court’s findings of fact and conclusions of law,” — Larry Krasner, philadelphia district attorney