NPR

When Is Abuse Of Power A Crime? Supreme Court Answer May Come In 'Bridgegate' Scandal

The closure in 2013 of access lanes to the George Washington Bridge infuriated motorists and jeopardized public safety. When it turned out it was a political vendetta, it became a criminal case.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday weighed whether to make life more difficult for prosecutors in public corruption cases.

The modern-day court has made it increasingly difficult to prosecute public officials who abuse their power but don't personally enrich themselves. The court has thrown out multiple public corruption convictions in recent years, all but eviscerating broad statutes aimed at ensuring the honest services of public employees.

Tuesday's case involved the celebrated New

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

More from NPR

NPR5 min readAmerican Government
Adult Film Star Stormy Daniels Is Testifying Against Trump In New York Trial
Stephanie Clifford, also known as Stormy Daniels, has spent the last several years in legal battles with former President Trump. She has taken the stand to testify against him in a criminal trial.
NPR2 min readWorld
Israeli Forces Take Control At Rafah Crossing; How A Border Patrol Agent Sees His Job
Israeli forces have taken control of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing into Egypt. A U.S. Border Patrol agent explains how he sees his agency's mission.
NPR6 min read
Neoliberal Economics: The Road To Freedom Or Authoritarianism?
Nobel-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz's new book argues the road to tyranny is paved not by too much, but by too little government.

Related Books & Audiobooks