Judge in Michael Flynn Case Ordered to Dismiss Prosecution Against Him

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia has directed the judge presiding over Michael Flynn’s case to dismiss the prosecution. The decision follows a move by the Department of Justice last month to drop its case against Flynn despite his confession.

Now: DC Circuit directs Flynn judge to dismiss prosecution, per new order: pic.twitter.com/w6C5Bc2jtP

— Mike Scarcella (@MikeScarcella) June 24, 2020

The Appeals Court has ordered Judge Emmet Sullivan to dismiss the case, in a significant victory for the former Trump advisor. Sullivan also brought in a retired judge to review the matter following the Justice Department’s decision. The court also overturned this decision.

BREAKING: The US Appeals Court has GRANTED Flynn's motion to force Judge Sullivan to dismiss the case. pic.twitter.com/aZHd3PP4UH

— Kyle Cheney (@kyledcheney) June 24, 2020

Flynn plead guilty to lying to the FBI and agreed to cooperate with Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s probe. However, since the end of the impeachment process and the appointment of Attorney General William Barr, Flynn has argued the prosecution against him was politically motivated.

The President was quick to react.

“Great! Appeals Court Upholds Justice Departments Request To Drop Criminal Case Against General Michael Flynn!” he said.

Great! Appeals Court Upholds Justice Departments Request To Drop Criminal Case Against General Michael Flynn!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 24, 2020

There is likely to be strong criticism of this decision from the President’s opponents, and particularly from those who were shocked at the Justice Department’s decision to drop the case after a guilty plea. There have already been calls to impeach the attorney general.