Grand Jury Subpoenas Issued to Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner

The Justice Department recently issued grand jury subpoenas to the office of Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner. These subpoenas relate to potential obstruction of justice in cases before federal judges, according to sources familiar with the matter. A federal judge had referred both Krasner and his deputy to the DOJ for further investigation.

Krasner’s office has yet to comment, and the DOJ has also declined to provide any statements. The subpoenas follow more than a month after U.S. District Judge Paul Diamond referred the case to the DOJ. The judge suggested that evidence in a murder conviction could indicate false statements, perjury, obstruction of justice, and conspiracy. Despite these serious allegations, Krasner and Stiegler have not been formally charged.

In court proceedings, Judge Diamond removed Krasner and his deputy, Matthew Stiegler, from the case but did not extend the disqualification to the entire District Attorney’s office. Diamond accused the two of attempting to influence prosecutors into presenting false narratives in court. He expressed concern that Krasner threatened staff with consequences if they reported an internal conflict to the court.

The case involves Dennis Johnson, convicted in 2009 for the murder of Kenyatta Smith. The DA’s office later filed that Johnson had ineffective legal counsel, warranting habeas relief. Concerns about conflicts of interest regarding Stiegler led to suggestions to refer the issue to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office. Krasner opposed this referral, insisting on the need for his office’s involvement to protect its interests.

Krasner responded to the allegations by stating, “I respectfully and vigorously disagree with the court’s findings of fact and conclusions of law.” He expressed his intention to appeal as soon as legally permissible, noting the situation limits public comment from him and his office.

This story continues to evolve, and further updates are anticipated.

David Spunt, a correspondent based in Washington D.C., has been with FOX News Channel since December 2018.