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Ed Martin Faces Ethics Probe as He Takes Helm of DOJ’s Weaponization Unit

The former interim U.S. Attorney for D.C. claims the investigation by D.C.'s Disciplinary Counsel is politically motivated, while his controversial new role raises concerns about DOJ norms.

Interim U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia Ed Martin speaks during a press conference on May 13, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
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Overview

  • Ed Martin, recently appointed to lead the DOJ’s Weaponization Working Group, is under a confidential ethics investigation by D.C.’s Office of Disciplinary Counsel (Docket 2025-D047).
  • Martin alleges that Disciplinary Counsel Hamilton P. Fox III is using the investigation to target him unfairly, calling it a misuse of authority.
  • The ethics complaints against Martin, filed by lawmakers and advocacy groups, focus on alleged abuses of prosecutorial power during his tenure as interim U.S. Attorney for D.C.
  • Martin’s Senate confirmation for the U.S. Attorney role stalled, leading to Jeanine Pirro’s appointment as his successor, while he transitions to the controversial DOJ unit.
  • The Weaponization Working Group, formed under AG Pam Bondi, aims to investigate prosecutorial overreach, with Martin pledging to publicly name uncharged individuals—a significant departure from DOJ norms.