DOJ Scolds Ex-Prosecutor’s ‘Poor Judgment’ in Epstein Deal
- Epstein pleaded to state charges, avoiding federal crimes
- Acosta defends actions, saying more is now known about Epstein
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The Justice Department said then-U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta used “poor judgment” as the top prosecutor in southern Florida in approving a generous plea deal with former money manager Jeffrey Epstein, but didn’t commit “professional misconduct.”
The finding by Justice Department’s internal disciplinary unit was criticized by lawyers for Epstein’s victims. Epstein, who was accused of sexually abusing dozens of girls, was allowed to enter into a non-prosecution agreement with Acosta’s office in 2008 while also pleading guilty to state charges for which he served 13 months in a work-release program.