US Justice Department probing Trump ally Corey Lewandowski over alleged DHS contract misconduct

Justice Department prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into Corey Lewandowski over alleged contract misconduct at the Department of Homeland Security, where he worked as the de facto chief of staff to former secretary Kristi Noem, according to multiple people familiar with the investigation (CNN, Reuters).

The probe follows a criminal referral from the DHS Inspector General’s office, which has been examining contracting practices at the agency during Noem’s and Lewandowski’s tenure. Reuters, citing three US officials and a fourth person familiar with the matter, reports the investigation centres on allegations that Lewandowski profited off his government role.

Lewandowski’s attorney Adam Trigg denied any wrongdoing: “Mr. Lewandowski has not been contacted by the Justice Department regarding any investigation, and he denies any wrongdoing when he was proudly serving his country in a voluntary capacity.” The Justice Department declined to comment; the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately return a request for comment.

According to one person familiar with the investigation, the DOJ has not yet issued subpoenas or other legal demands. Investigating people close to the president is unusual — the department has more often targeted his critics, including former FBI director James Comey and New York attorney general Letitia James.

Asked about the reports on Thursday, Trump said he had only just learned of the investigation: “I want my people to be honest. And if they’re not honest, I’ll have my DOJ go and do whatever they have to do.”