Justice Dept. Probing Meese’s Handling of Arms Deal Inquiry
The Justice Department’s internal inspector is investigating Atty. Gen. Edwin Meese III’s handling of the initial probe of the secret Iran arms deals that turned up the diversion of funds to Nicaraguan rebels, officials said Monday.
Justice Department officials said Michael Shaheen, counsel to the department’s Office of Professional Responsibility, has opened an inquiry into Meese’s role in running the review that led to the startling revelation Nov. 25 that up to $30 million in proceeds from the arms sales were funneled to the contras .
The incoming chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr. (D-Del.), last week asked Shaheen to investigate any possible “improper or unethical activities” related to any of the department’s inquiries.
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