DOJ Probes Trump Witness in Unusual Civil Rights Inquiry

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating Cassidy Hutchinson, a key witness against former President Donald Trump in the January 6 probe. Officials have taken the unusual step of placing this case within its Civil Rights Division. This division typically handles cases involving discrimination and police misconduct. Legal experts note it does not normally investigate accusations of lying to Congress. The move suggests prosecutors may be examining potential civil rights violations. They could be assessing if Hutchinson was pressured to change her testimony or if her rights were otherwise violated. Hutchinson gave dramatic public testimony in 2022. She detailed Trump's actions and statements around the Capitol riot. Her account was central to the congressional investigation. The Justice Department has not commented. Hutchinson's lawyer has stated she is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.