US Attorney Matthew Graves announces resignation amid controversy over prosecution decisions

Matthew Graves, the U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., announced his resignation effective January 16, 2025. His departure comes amid controversy over decisions not to charge Hunter Biden and a high rate of non-prosecution for local crimes. Graves faced criticism for declining to partner with Delaware's U.S. Attorney on tax charges against Hunter Biden, which allowed the statute of limitations to expire. He also defended a low prosecution rate for local crimes, citing issues with the D.C. crime lab. In fiscal year 2022, 67% of cases with arrests were not charged, a figure that improved to 56% in fiscal 2023. Graves stated that holding individuals accountable for criminal conduct is important to him.