Justice Department Investigates Northern Virginia Prosecutor
The Justice Department has launched an investigation into a prosecutor in Northern Virginia, Steve Descano, over claims of discrimination against American citizens. The allegations suggest that he provides preferential treatment to criminal defendants identified as “illegal aliens.”
In a notification from the Justice Department, it was noted that the investigation will assess potential civil rights violations tied to Descano’s office regarding plea agreements, charging decisions, and sentencing practices.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon emphasized the commitment of the Civil Rights Division to ensure that district attorneys do not favor defendants based on immigration status.
The investigation aims to determine whether Descano’s policies jeopardize community safety by offering leniency to undocumented immigrants charged with serious crimes. This includes a specific guideline that encourages defendants to consider the ramifications of their immigration status during negotiations and sentencing.
There are concerns that Descano might be violating Title VI and the Safe Streets Act by engaging in discriminatory practices since the 2019 election. His office is said to exhibit a pattern of enforcement misconduct that undermines constitutional rights.
Interestingly, during his campaign, Descano’s website echoed some of the policies currently in place. One notable line, which has since been removed, stated, “When two people commit the same crime and one’s punishment includes deportation, it is a perversion of justice and does not reflect the values of Fairfax County.”
Descano has faced backlash due to campaign donations exceeding $700,000 from sources tied to George Soros, particularly regarding the sentencing of two men who received five years for the murder of Nicasio Hernandez Gonzalez. They admitted to the crime at a park in Oakton, Virginia, in July 2024.
Additionally, Descano has attracted controversy for seemingly ignoring warning signs from Fairfax County police regarding Abdul Jallow, an undocumented immigrant with a history of serious offenses, who was later charged with the murder of his mother.
Before the Justice Department’s investigation unfolded, Descano was invited to testify at a House Judiciary Committee hearing titled “Fairfax County, Virginia: The Dangerous Consequences of Sanctuary Policy.” He acknowledged the investigation on Wednesday, defending his policies as fair and lawful, stating they align with community values.
