DOJ 'Weaponization' Probe Focus Shifts After Key Staff Departures
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Two former Trump administration officials involved in an internal Department of Justice (DOJ) effort to investigate claims of politicized law enforcement have left the agency. The 'Weaponization Working Group' reportedly lacked resources and has not produced a report on Jan. 6 prosecutions, and its focus appears to have shifted to other alleged biases.
Facts First
- Jonathan Gross and Jared Wise have left the DOJ after joining the administration in 2025.
- The 'Weaponization Working Group' had 'no budget, no staff' according to Gross.
- The group has not released a report on Jan. 6 prosecutions more than a year after its formation.
- Gross was placed on leave and reassigned after bringing Jan. 6 defendants to DOJ headquarters.
- The group's focus may have shifted to alleged anti-Christian bias and school board protest targeting.
What Happened
Jonathan Gross, who joined the Department of Justice's (DOJ) civil rights division in June 2025, left the agency earlier this year. Jared Wise, a former FBI agent and former Jan. 6 defendant, has also recently left the administration. Gross criticized his former bosses, including acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, for 'very sloppy' work and 'sabotage'. Gross stated the Weaponization Working Group launched by former Attorney General Pam Bondi had 'no budget, no staff'. Gross and Wise participated in discussions regarding a draft report on alleged abuses of Jan. 6 defendants, but the DOJ has released no findings more than a year after the group's formation. Gross was placed on paid leave and reassigned after Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon told him he could not bring former Jan. 6 defendants into DOJ headquarters.
Why this Matters to You
This development suggests an internal effort to review federal law enforcement actions may have stalled or changed direction, which could affect the public perception of the DOJ's impartiality. The shift in focus to reports of alleged anti-Christian bias means the agency's internal scrutiny may now be directed toward different community concerns. The departure of officials who were vocal critics of the department's leadership could indicate internal tensions that may influence future policy or personnel decisions.
What's Next
The 'Weaponization Working Group' may continue its work under a new focus, but its lack of a published report on Jan. 6 cases suggests its output and impact remain uncertain. The DOJ is pursuing other cases, including an indictment of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and former FBI director James Comey; the SPLC has stated it will 'vigorously defend' itself. The internal dynamics described by Gross could lead to further personnel changes or adjustments in how the department handles sensitive internal reviews.