# Ex-DOJ Prosecutor Indicted for Concealing Jack Smith Report
Carmen Mercedes Lineberger, a former Department of Justice prosecutor, faces federal indictment for allegedly stealing and hiding Jack Smith's sealed prosecutorial report. Investigators say Lineberger concealed the sensitive materials in computer files marked with innocuous labels like cake recipes.
The indictment centers on Smith's work as special counsel investigating former President Donald Trump. Smith's office generated sealed reports during its probe into Trump's handling of classified documents and events surrounding January 6, 2021. These materials carry heightened classification protections.
Prosecutors allege Lineberger deliberately obstructed justice by removing the sealed report from secure DOJ systems and mislabeling files to evade detection. The scheme involved disguising the hidden materials under misleading directory names. Federal investigators discovered the concealment during a routine examination of DOJ records and case files.
The case raises questions about document security protocols within the Justice Department. Lineberger held access to classified and sensitive materials as part of her prosecutorial role. Her alleged actions violated federal statutes governing the handling of sealed court documents and special counsel work product.
The incident occurs amid ongoing scrutiny of Smith's investigation into Trump. Smith concluded his role following Trump's 2024 election victory. The special counsel's reports remain largely under seal, though portions have entered public view through legal filings and congressional requests.
Lineberger's indictment suggests potential breaches in internal DOJ safeguards designed to protect special counsel investigations. Federal authorities have not disclosed whether other individuals participated in the alleged concealment or whether additional classified materials faced compromise.
The case will proceed through federal court. Lineberger faces charges that carry prison time if she is convicted. Her legal team has not yet released statements regarding the allegations.
The incident underscores persistent challenges within federal agencies managing sensitive