Ex-Justice Department Lawyer Details Refusal to Lie in Abrego Garcia Case

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Ex-Justice Department Lawyer Details Refusal to Lie in Abrego Garcia Case

Erez Reuveni, a former lawyer with the Department of Justice (DOJ), has become a whistleblower, bringing attention to alleged misconduct within the agency. Reuveni, who worked at the DOJ for 15 years, claims he witnessed a serious disregard for due process and the rule of law during his tenure, particularly under the Trump administration.

Erez Reuveni’s Background and Career

Reuveni began his career at the DOJ in 2010, focusing on immigration law. His performance earned him commendations, and he quickly ascended to key roles. He notably defended controversial immigration policies, including the travel ban on individuals from predominantly Muslim countries.

Fired for Refusal to Mislead

In a striking turn of events, Reuveni was placed on administrative leave and subsequently terminated after refusing to sign a brief in the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man mistakenly deported. He was ordered to falsely characterize Abrego Garcia as a member of MS-13 and a terrorist—a characterization Reuveni deemed legally and factually incorrect.

Concerns Over Due Process

Reuveni has raised alarms about the implications of disregarding due process. He expressed that if the DOJ can falsely label individuals for expediency, it undermines the legal protections afforded to all citizens. He stated, “What’s to stop them if they decide they don’t like you anymore?”

The Abrego Garcia Case

Details emerged surrounding the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was erroneously deported. When pressed to argue his deportation on false grounds, Reuveni stood firm in his commitment to ethical conduct. He ultimately filed a whistleblower complaint with the Government Accountability Project in June.

Patterns of Misconduct at the DOJ

Reuveni’s revelations come amid broader concerns about the DOJ’s conduct during the Trump administration. Ryan Goodman, a legal scholar at New York University, analyzed court records and found over 35 cases where judges highlighted misleading information provided by the government. This behavior has reportedly eroded trust in the Justice Department.

Judicial Response

Chief Judge James Boasberg of the U.S. District Court questioned DOJ lawyers regarding the expedited deportations. When the issue of planes leaving despite a court order arose, one attorney expressed uncertainty, raising serious ethical questions about the conduct of DOJ officials during these proceedings.

Recent Developments

Following Reuveni’s whistleblower complaint, Abrego Garcia has since returned to the U.S. He faces charges related to transporting illegal immigrants but not terrorism. The Supreme Court reaffirmed that everyone deported under the Alien Enemies Act is entitled to due process, reflecting a growing call for accountability and justice in immigration practices.