Criminal Investigation Referral for Former Biden Prosecutor

A former senior federal prosecutor from the Biden administration, Jina Choi, faces a criminal investigation referral. The Justice Department is asked to assess if she misled federal agents regarding her involvement in a case, as reported by Fox News Digital.

Background on Jina Choi

Jina Choi joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California in 2023. Appointed by Biden, U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey selected her to head its Corporate and Securities Fraud Section. This division tackles significant corporate cases in areas like Silicon Valley.

Prior to her appointment, Choi represented IRL, a social media startup. Founded by Abraham Shafi, IRL aimed to connect people through events but shut down in 2023 after a board investigation found most users were bots. Shafi disputed this finding before his 2025 indictment on fraud charges.

Details of the Referral

The referral represents a challenge to Choi’s actions regarding the investigation. Cully Stimson, a former prosecutor, noted this move as uncommon.

The referral, sent by Shafi’s separately retained lawyer, questions Choi’s involvement in the IRL case after joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Though she was allegedly screened from the case, evidence suggests her continued involvement.

Allegations and Documents

Prosecutors claimed Choi was isolated from the IRL investigation. However, Shafi’s lawyer argues internal communications and FBI reports contradict this.

Documents suggest Choi remained engaged in the case. Shafi’s lawyer accuses Choi of understating her role to agents. Choi’s communications are partially disclosed in public court filings, but full documents are sealed, leaving public scrutiny limited.

Conflict of Interest Concerns

Choi had previously served as IRL’s outside counsel, raising concerns about conflicts of interest. The defense alleges she used her influence to focus the investigation on Shafi rather than other stakeholders. The government denies improper conduct, stating she aimed to shield the company itself from targeting.

Evidence allegedly includes internal messages suggesting she kept track of the case and interacted with the investigation team, contrary to her claims.

Prosecution and Defense Stances

Shafi faces charges of wire fraud, securities fraud, and misuse of funds. The defense argues Choi’s actions could compromise the integrity of the charges against Shafi.

Cully Stimson emphasized that, if allegations are true, it could indicate conflicts within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Current Status

Choi has not yet been charged or disciplined. Efforts to contact her for comments were unsuccessful.