Attorney General Merrick Garland Delivers Remarks

Copies of both the warrant and the FBI property receipt were provided on the day of the search to the former President's counsel, who was on site during the search," said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. "The search warrant was authorized by a federal court upon the required finding of probable cause. The 'property receipt' is a document that federal law requires law enforcement agents to leave with the property owner...I personally approved the decision to seek a search warrant in this matter.

The Department (of Justice) does not take such a decision lightly," continued the Attorney General. "The Department filed the motion to make public the warrant and receipt in light of the former President's public confirmation of the search, the surrounding circumstances, and the substantial public interest in this matter. Where possible, it is standard practice to seek less intrusive means as an alternative to a search, and to narrowly scope any search that is undertaken. Faithful adherence to the rule of law is the bedrock principle of the Justice Department and of our democracy. Upholding the rule of law means applying the law evenly, without fear or favor. Under my watch, that is precisely what the Justice Department is doing. 

"Third, let me address recent unfounded attacks on the professionalism of the FBI and Justice Department agents and prosecutors. I will not stand by silently when their integrity is unfairly attacked. The men and women of the FBI and the Justice Department are dedicated, patriotic public servants. Every day, they protect the American people from violent crime, terrorism, and other threats to their safety, while safeguarding our civil rights. They do so at great personal sacrifice and risk to themselves. I am honored to work alongside them."

- Attorney General Merrick B. Garland