DOJ Negotiates $50M Settlement with Flynn Over FBI Lie Charges

BREAKING: The Department of Justice is reportedly in discussions for a substantial $50 million cash settlement with former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, following his guilty plea for lying to the FBI in December 2017. This urgent development raises significant questions about the implications for taxpayer money and ongoing political tensions.

Flynn, who pleaded guilty to one count of lying about his conversations with Russia’s ambassador, alleges that his prosecution was wrongful and orchestrated by “rogue FBI actors.” His attorney, Jesse Binnall, claims this was part of a politically motivated effort to damage Flynn’s life and career, while simultaneously undermining then-President Donald Trump.

“This was a politically motivated hoax,” Binnall stated in a court filing, underscoring the emotional toll on Flynn, who has faced significant legal fees and lost opportunities as a result of his prosecution. The settlement talks signal a shift in the Biden administration’s approach, contrasting with previous positions where government lawyers successfully fought against Flynn’s civil damages lawsuit.

During negotiations, Flynn’s legal team has emphasized the severe impact of the allegations on his reputation and livelihood. Flynn, having received a presidential pardon in late 2020, now seeks financial compensation for what he describes as a devastating infringement on his rights.

Moreover, Binnall represents Stefan Passantino, another Trump ally who is also pursuing a settlement with the DOJ. Passantino’s claims arise from his representation of witnesses in the congressional investigation into the January 6 Capitol riots, where he alleges his reputation was damaged by false claims from committee members.

“Passantino seeks accountability…their actions destroyed his reputation, threatened his livelihood, and cost him millions,” Binnall noted.

The urgency of these negotiations comes as the DOJ faces mounting lawsuits from various defendants linked to January 6, including those from the Proud Boys, seeking over $100 million for what they term “malicious” prosecution. The legal landscape is shifting as the government navigates complicating factors surrounding its treatment of Trump allies versus perceived adversaries.

These ongoing discussions are not only about compensation but also reflect broader political currents and the continuing fallout from the Trump administration. The potential for taxpayer-funded payouts raises critical questions about accountability and the implications for future prosecutions.

As the situation develops, observers are closely monitoring the outcomes of these negotiations and their potential impact on the political landscape. The DOJ’s efforts to settle with Flynn and Passantino could set precedent for how similar cases are handled moving forward.

The next steps will be crucial, as a federal judge has yet to rule on the DOJ’s motion to dismiss the Proud Boys’ lawsuit, leaving the door open for further developments that could influence the ongoing legal discourse surrounding January 6.

Stay tuned for further updates on this breaking story, as the implications of these settlement talks unfold and the political ramifications become clearer.