A judge in Washington on Oct. 1 dismissed a criminal case against David Hearn, a former U.S. Olympian, with prejudice.
That means federal prosecutors, who requested the case be thrown out without prejudice, cannot refile charges in the future.
“A dismissal without prejudice would not account for the exceptional circumstances presented by this case,” District of Columbia Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman wrote in a 26-page order.
Lawyers representing Hearn, 67, celebrated the move.
“This decision is a victory for the rule of law and for an innocent American seeking justice,” they said in a statement.
“This administration chose to pursue an unjust prosecution against Mr. Hearn. It should not get repeated chances to wield the power of criminal prosecution against someone who should never have been prosecuted,” they said. “Today’s decision protects Mr. Hearn from that threat, allowing him to move forward with his life as he deserves.”…