A senior federal prosecutor has stepped down from his post, citing growing tensions over political pressure. Erik Siebert, who had been serving as the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, formally announced his resignation on Friday.
According to individuals familiar with the situation, Siebert faced mounting pressure from figures connected to former President Donald Trump’s administration to pursue criminal charges against New York Attorney General Letitia James. Sources told ABC News that Siebert repeatedly declined to file charges he believed lacked sufficient legal grounds.
In an email sent to staff at the Alexandria, Virginia, office — which was later obtained by ABC News — Siebert confirmed his departure and thanked colleagues for their work. He emphasized his commitment to “upholding the rule of law” and “ensuring the independence of the Justice Department.”
The resignation highlights ongoing debates over the boundaries between politics and law enforcement, especially in high-profile investigations involving elected officials. Legal experts note that while U.S. Attorneys are appointed by the President, they are expected to operate independently when deciding whether to bring criminal cases.
Neither Siebert nor representatives for the Trump administration immediately responded to requests for comment about the circumstances of his resignation. A spokesperson for Letitia James also declined to comment on the reports.
The Eastern District of Virginia — sometimes called the “Rocket Docket” for its fast-moving cases — handles some of the country’s most sensitive national security and corruption prosecutions. Siebert’s departure leaves the office under interim leadership as the Justice Department works to appoint his successor.
