Dismissing Criminal Prosecution of Boeing is Outrageous, Unconscionable
A federal judge in Texas dismissed a criminal conspiracy case against Boeing related to two deadly crashes of its 737 Max jetliner that caused 346 fatalities.
Public Citizen's Response
Robert Weissman, co-president of Public Citizen, stated: “Unconscionable is inadequate to address the outrage of the Trump Justice Department’s decision to dismiss the criminal prosecution of Boeing. Not only did Boeing’s recklessness lead directly to the deaths of hundreds of people, but it violated the terms of the sweetheart deal it reached with the first Trump administration, again jeopardizing the lives of air passengers.”
Judge O’Connor’s View
Judge O’Connor expressed that although he felt constrained in allowing the DOJ to drop the case, his strongly worded ruling shows he finds the department’s action unacceptable.
“The Government has a confession from Boeing, signed by the CEO and Chief Legal Officer, admitting to all the elements of the conspiracy charge against it,” the judge wrote.
Criticism of DOJ Leadership
Weissman condemned the Attorney General and DOJ leadership, saying their actions have “brought shame and disgrace to a previously respected agency,” marking what he called a new low.
“This is a sickening example of Trump and ICE's blatant disregard for humanity as they terrorize our families and communities.”
This decision has sparked significant outrage over the perceived failure to hold Boeing accountable for its role in tragic crashes.
Author’s summary: The dismissal of Boeing’s criminal case by a federal judge, despite clear admissions of guilt, drew harsh criticism for undermining justice and public safety.