Publication | Executive Actions Monitor

    Executive Actions Affecting
    Criminal Justice

    2025 Presidential Actions
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    These executive order (EO) summaries are based on a cursory review; our lawyers and policy professionals continue to analyze these documents, and the directives they contain. Among other things, some of the directed actions may present significant constitutional questions that could be litigated and subsequently overturned or blocked.


    February 25, 2025

    Suspension of Security Clearances and Evaluation of Government Contracts

    A memorandum to relevant department heads suspending active security clearances held by employees of Covington & Burlington LLP who assisted former Special Counsel Jack Smith. It also directs actions to terminate agency engagements and review government contracts with the law firm. A fact sheet on the EO can be found on the White House website.
     
    February 10, 2025

    Pausing Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Enforcement to Further American Economic and National Security

    An EO directing the Attorney General to review and update the guidelines and policies governing investigations and enforcement actions under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) within a 180-day period. During this period, no new FCPA investigations shall be initiated, except under approved exceptions. The Attorney General may extend the review for an additional 180 days if deemed necessary. A fact sheet on the EO can be found on the White House website.
     
    January 22, 2025

    Executive Grant of Clemency

    A grant of clemency for Terence Sutton, a police officer convicted of crimes in connection with a police pursuit.
     
    January 22, 2025

    Executive Grant of Clemency

    A grant of clemency for Andrew Zabavsky, a police officer convicted of crimes in connection with a police pursuit.
     
    January 20, 2025

    Granting Pardons and Commutation of Sentences for Certain Offenses Relating to the Events at or Near the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021

    A proclamation issuing pardons for, or commutes to, the sentences of defendants in cases related to events on January 6, 2021.

     
    January 20, 2025

    Restoring the Death Penalty and Protecting Public Safety

    An EO reinstating federal capital punishment.