JUST IN - DOJ formally decides not to charge Rep. Matt Gaetz in sex-trafficking probe

According to multiple reports, the Department of Justice has notified the lawyers of at least one witness that Republican Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida will not face charges after a federal sex-trafficking investigation that has lasted for years.

The decision not to prosecute Gaetz was made by the Department of Justice leadership, after investigators recommended against charges last year. Gaetz’s lawyers, Marc Mukasey and Isabelle Kirshner, stated that they had spoken with the DOJ and were informed that the investigation into Gaetz’s alleged sex trafficking and obstruction of justice has concluded, and no charges would be brought against him.

“We have just spoken with the DOJ and have been informed that they have concluded their investigation into Congressman Gaetz and allegations related to sex trafficking and obstruction of justice and they have determined not to bring any charges against him,” Gaetz’s lawyers Marc Mukasey and Isabelle Kirshner said in a statement.

Gaetz’s office issued a separate statement acknowledging that the investigation has ended, and no charges will be filed. The DOJ’s decision to not charge Gaetz, who has been a member of Congress since 2017, marks the end of a lengthy investigation into allegations that he violated federal law by paying for sex, including with minors.

Gaetz has consistently denied any wrongdoing.