DOJ Opens Probe into Soros-Backed Fairfax Prosecutor Steve Descano

Virginia Democrats offered mixed reactions Wednesday after the Department of Justice opened an investigation into Fairfax County Prosecutor Steve Descano.

Some expressed skepticism about the probe by President Donald Trump's DOJ, while others showed willingness to wait for results. The responses reflect distrust of the DOJ alongside lawmakers' frustration with preventable violence.

Rep. James Walkinshaw, D-Va., called it a witch hunt. "I think the DOJ has been putting a lot of ‘Ls’ on the board. I think this would be another loss in their column," Walkinshaw said.

Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., took a different view. "I was discouraged, but I don’t want to prejudge. I very much hope and believe that the Commonwealth attorney has done nothing wrong or untoward. If they find anything, then we can fix it," Beyer told Fox News Digital.

Descano has drawn national attention for receiving more than $600,000 in campaign support from the Justice and Public Safety PAC, a group mainly funded by billionaire George Soros. His policies have fueled debate over Trump's immigration crackdown, especially after murders in Fairfax County by illegal alien repeat offenders.

One prominent case involved the death of Stephanie Minter, allegedly by Abdul Jalloh. Reports showed Jalloh had been arrested and released more than 30 times. The Department of Homeland Security stated in press releases that Descano's office had been warned about Jalloh's danger to the public before Minter's death.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon announced the probe would examine Descano's plea bargaining, charging decisions and sentencing policies. "Under my leadership, the Civil Rights Division will not allow local prosecutors to pick and choose winners based on their immigration status," Dhillon said. "This investigation will uncover whether this prosecutor is putting the community at risk in offering sweetheart deals to illegal immigrants charged with serious crimes."

Beyer, who has criticized the Trump administration's immigrant focus before, complained about repeat offenders nationwide. "If it’s legitimate, I hope they do their job well. I’ve often seen cases around the country where you just can’t believe somebody with so many prior convictions is still out," he said. "I think we have a responsibility to protect the public."

Descano’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.