NPR

Federal Judge Delays Michael Flynn Sentencing In Case Of Lying To Feds

The judge ordered both sides to file status reports by March 13. He said he has outstanding questions, including how the Russia investigation was impeded and the impact of Flynn's lies on the inquiry.

Updated at 3:21 p.m. ET

A federal judge delayed sentencing former national security adviser Michael Flynn on Tuesday after he pleaded guilty to lying to investigators about his talks with Russia's ambassador.

U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan said he has significant outstanding questions about the case, including how the government's Russia investigation was impeded and the material impact of Flynn's lies on the special counsel's inquiry.

Flynn had spent more than a year giving what prosecutors called all the cooperation they wanted, including in 62 hours of meetings and the production of "sweeping categories" of documents and electronic devices.

In light of that accommodation, the Justice Department had told the judge ahead of Tuesday's hearing that it would be all right if Flynn received no prison time.

Flynn, in his filing, also asked for leniency.

But the judge was less certain about the extent of Flynn's assistance — and the seriousness of the offense.

In a remarkable series of

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min readAmerican Government
Who Is Hope Hicks, The Former Trump Adviser Testifying In New York Criminal Trial?
Hope Hicks was a communications director for the Trump White House and prosecutors may question her on her knowledge of the deals made during his first presidential run.
NPR4 min read
'Hacks' Season 3 Is Proof That Compelling Storylines And Character Growth Take Time
Ava (Hannah Einbinder) and Deborah (Jean Smart) have both grown a lot since we first met them in Season 1. It's a reminder that shows need breathing room to achieve satisfying development.
NPR4 min read
'Dance Your Ph.D.' Winner On Science, Art, And Embracing His Identity
Weliton Menário Costa's award-winning music video showcases his research on kangaroo personality and behavior — and offers a celebration of human diversity, too.

Related Books & Audiobooks