Federal Judge Refers Philadelphia DA Krasner to DOJ Over Alleged Obstruction in Murder Case

Key points

• Judge Diamond disqualified Krasner and Stiegler from the Dennis Johnson case, citing 'troubling' activity uncovered during evidentiary hearings.
• The judge alleged Krasner pressured staffers to present a 'false narrative' to the court and threatened consequences for those who did not comply.
• Krasner refused to transfer the case to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, arguing he needed to stay involved to 'protect the office,' despite staff warnings of conflicts of interest.
• Krasner issued a statement 'respectfully and vigorously' disagreeing with the court’s findings and indicated he intends to appeal the decision.
• The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has not yet commented on the potential investigation.

Background

This development follows earlier scrutiny of Krasner’s Conviction Integrity Unit, which has faced criticism for handling post-conviction cases. The current referral is distinct from unrelated local investigations, such as the stalled forensic review in the Nolan Wells case, but adds to a pattern of federal oversight regarding the Philadelphia DA’s office.

How outlets are covering it

All sources, including The Morning Call, 6abc, and NBC10, confirm the core facts of the referral and Krasner’s response. 6abc emphasizes the 'stinging' nature of the 40-page memo and the allegation that Krasner urged subordinates to implement a false narrative. NBC10 highlights the internal conflict, noting that four employees rejected the proposal to keep the case in the DA’s office, arguing that protecting the office’s interests was itself the conflict. The Morning Call notes that while the DA’s office may continue handling the case, it is unclear which prosecutor will take over.

Why it matters

The referral signals a rare federal intervention in a state-level prosecution, raising questions about the integrity of Philadelphia’s post-conviction review process. If charges are filed, it could set a precedent for holding high-ranking prosecutors accountable for alleged obstruction of justice and perjury in habeas corpus proceedings.

What to watch

Krasner plans to appeal the judge’s decision to a higher court. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will determine whether to open a formal criminal investigation based on the judge’s memorandum. The Dennis Johnson case remains on hold pending the resolution of these legal disputes.