U.S. Department of Justice reportedly dropped FCPA investigation into Pfizer after Pam Bondi assumed office as Attorney General: sidley

U.S. Department of Justice reportedly dropped FCPA investigation into Pfizer after Pam Bondi assumed office as Attorney General: sidley

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has reportedly dropped its Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) investigation into Pfizer, a pharmaceutical giant, following the appointment of Pam Bondi as Attorney General. This decision has sparked debate and raised questions about the transparency and effectiveness of the DOJ's enforcement policies.

The FCPA investigation into Pfizer, which had been ongoing for several months, was abruptly terminated after Bondi took office in February 2025. The DOJ's decision to drop the case has been criticized by some in the legal community and by investors who had been closely following the matter.

In a statement, the DOJ said that the decision to drop the investigation was based on a review of the evidence and that the agency had determined that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with the case. However, critics have argued that the timing of the decision and the lack of transparency surrounding the investigation raise questions about political influence and the independence of the DOJ.

The decision to drop the Pfizer investigation comes as the DOJ has been facing criticism for its handling of other high-profile cases, including the Epstein probe. In recent weeks, Bondi has come under fire from right-wing figures for her statements about the Epstein investigation and for the DOJ's handling of the case.

The DOJ's decision to drop the Pfizer investigation has significant implications for investors and financial professionals. The FCPA is a key tool for the U.S. government to combat corruption and ensure that companies operating abroad comply with anti-corruption laws. The decision to drop the Pfizer investigation may signal a shift in the DOJ's enforcement priorities and could potentially embolden other companies to engage in corrupt practices.

The DOJ's decision to drop the Pfizer investigation is a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in government enforcement actions. As the DOJ continues to face criticism for its handling of high-profile cases, it will be important for the agency to demonstrate that it is acting independently and in the public interest.

References:
[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/saradorn/2025/07/09/pam-bondi-under-fire-from-maga--megyn-kelly-laura-loomer-and-more-over-epstein-probe/