Judge Slams Justice Department Over Sudden Tree Removal at D.C. Golf Course
Judge rebukes Justice Department over sudden tree removal at D.C. golf course, citing lost credibility and lack of transparency.
POLICY WIRE — Washington, United States — A federal judge in Washington, D.C., has strongly criticized the Justice Department for its handling of a large-scale tree removal project at East Potomac Golf Links, calling into question the government’s credibility.
U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes held a virtual hearing lasting nearly four hours on Monday, demanding that officials explain how 430 trees were cut down at the course with minimal advance notice. The judge also ordered the superintendent of the National Mall and Memorial Parks to appear under oath and questioned senior National Park Service officials about the decision-making process.
The judge expressed frustration with the Justice Department, accusing it of failing to inform the court and plaintiffs of planned actions, which she suggested was an attempt to prevent legal challenges. She extended a temporary ban on further tree removals, including for maintenance, until Tuesday and required the Justice Department to provide three days’ notice before any future actions at the site.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
