If special counsel Robert Mueller finds any crime outside the scope of the federal investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, then he'll have to seek permission, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein said Sunday.
"Bob Mueller understands and I understand the specific scope of the investigation, and so no, it's not a fishing expedition," he told host Chris Wallace on "Fox News Sunday."
Rosenstein appointed Mueller to oversee the federal Russia probe, which includes a search for possible collusion with the Trump campaign, back in May after President Trump fired FBI Director James Comey. Because Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself from the case, Rosenstein ultimately was given the power to hire, and fire if he has good reason, Mueller.
It has been reported that Mueller's investigation has expanded to look at the finances of Trump and his associates, giving rise to concerns that Mueller could make it the focus of the probe. Rosenstein seemed to dismiss this issue.
Asked if there were no red lines under the terms of his order, Rosenstein said that the investigation is subject to the rules and regulations of the Justice Department.
If there's evidence of a crime that's found within the scope of what they have agreed, then Mueller has free rein, Rosenstein explained. If it's outside the scope of the probe, then "he needs to come to the acting attorney general, at this time me, for permission to expand his investigation," he added. Rosenstein noted this as a precedent, which was also followed by independent counsel Ken Starr during the Clinton years.
Reports have come out over the past couple months about how the probe is investigating Trump for obstruction of justice, and that Mueller has impaneled grand juries, capable of issuing subpoenas.
These reports and more have relied on anonymous sources, against whom Rosenstein cautioned could be unreliable. He dubbed these reports, "speculation in the news media."
Pizzagate related follow up to numerous undeleted posts theorizing the prosecution of Pizzagate and actions by the Dept of Justice
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carmencita ago
Is this more Kabuki Theater or For Real? What even IS real? I can't keep it all straight anymore. It's hard to know one from the other.
2impendingdoom ago
who the fuck knows, but I enjoyed the comment at the end about unsubstantiated leaks, probably not reliable. The Lynch staff email to the fbi will prove that comey was obstructing justice.
carmencita ago
Exactly. We are left to imagine and hope. But yes, that email will prove that, but I am wondering if anything will be done about it. As you said, Sigh.
2impendingdoom ago
I think at the very least Fitton will file civil charges against lynch and comey for a whole bunch of crimes.
carmencita ago
All of a sudden I am feeling Giddy and Gleeful!