DOJ Comments on Andersen

DOJ issued a press release here expressing disappointment, but acceptance in the Andersen decision. It states:

Department of Justice is disappointed in today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court regarding jury instructions given in the case, but of course we respect the Court’s decision.

“The Justice Department’s decision to charge Arthur Andersen was based at the time on the determination that the substantial destruction of documents in anticipation of an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission violated the law. We remain convinced that even the most powerful corporations have the responsibility of adhering to the rule of law.

“We will carefully examine today’s decision and determine whether to re-try the case.”

(esp)