A recent investigation by the Justice Department's Office of Inspector General revealed that an assistant U.S. attorney in Tampa, Florida, engaged in misconduct following a hit-and-run incident last year. The prosecutor, who was not named in the report but identified as a key figure in narcotics prosecutions, was found to have violated ethics rules by providing his Justice Department credentials to police officers investigating the crash while under the influence of alcohol.
Body-camera footage from the incident showed the prosecutor displaying signs of intoxication, including slurred speech and difficulty maintaining balance. Despite being accused of leaving the scene of the crash and attempting to leverage his position to mitigate consequences, the prosecutor was not immediately charged with hit-and-run or driving under the influence with property damage.
Following inquiries by the media, the prosecutor was removed from some cases but remains employed as an assistant U.S. attorney. The Justice Department emphasized its commitment to upholding high standards of conduct among its personnel and stated that appropriate action would be taken in response to misconduct allegations.
The prosecutor, known for his involvement in Operation Panama Express targeting cocaine smuggling, has a history of handling significant drug trafficking cases. While praised for his work ethic and courtroom skills, the prosecutor's recent actions have raised concerns about his conduct and accountability.
Despite testing twice the legal limit for blood-alcohol content, the prosecutor ultimately pleaded no contest to reckless driving and received probation. State prosecutors cited a lack of witnesses to prove DUI charges but emphasized that the outcome held the defendant accountable for his actions.
The incident, which involved a hit-and-run collision and subsequent arrest at the prosecutor's residence, highlighted the challenges of enforcing legal standards even among law enforcement officials. The case underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability within the justice system.
