Statement of U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran regarding report in New York Times:

 Statement of U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran:

“Throughout this lengthy period of civil unrest, I have had multiple conversations with Department of Justice leadership.  They have asked for information about protest activity devolving into violence, about federal interests implicated by the Capitol Hill Organized Protest, and about the cases filed in this District regarding federal crimes.  At no time has anyone at the Department communicated to me that Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan is, was, or should be the subject of a criminal investigation or should be charged with any federal crime related to the Capitol Hill Organized Protest (CHOP).  As U.S.  Attorney I would be aware of such an investigation. 

My office continues to work collaboratively with state and local law enforcement, including the Seattle Police Department, to prosecute federal crimes such as arson, weapons violations and the use of destructive devices.  Those cases are traditionally an area of focus for federal law enforcement.  The goal of my office is to strongly deter criminal acts that have no place alongside, and only endanger, those who choose to engage in constitutionally protected speech.”