Reports: Mueller Launches Grand Jury in Russia Probe, Subpoenas Issued

What’s the story?

The Wall Street Journal reports that Special Counsel Robert Mueller has impaneled a grand jury in Washington to investigate Russian meddling in the 2016 elections. The WSJ report says the grand jury began its work in recent weeks, and Reuters reports that the grand jury has issued subpoenas.

Why does it matter?

In the context of Mueller’s investigation, impaneling a grand jury is a sign that his probe has broadened beyond former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who has been investigated by at least one other grand jury prior to Mueller’s appointment.

Grand juries are made up of ordinary citizens who work in secret to consider evidence and potential criminal wrongdoing under investigation by prosecutors, and decide whether charges should be brought. They are commonly-used investigative tools that give prosecutors authority to subpoena documents, compel testimony from witnesses, and seek indictments if there’s evidence of a crime.

Grand jury investigations can last for months or even several years.

What can you do?

Tell your reps whether you think Congress should consider legislation to let Special Counsel Mueller contest his termination if he is fired using the Take Action button.

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— Eric Revell

(Photo Credit: Obama White House via Flickr / Public Domain)