A collective of criminal defense lawyers in Manhattan expressed serious concerns regarding the conduct of prosecutor Emil Bove, prompting them to write an email to his supervisors back in 2018. In this email, one attorney described Bove as “completely reckless and out of control” in his dealings with cases. Another, frustrated by Bove’s perceived rudeness and aggressive maneuvers, remarked that he required “adult supervision.” A notable federal public defender criticized Bove’s lack of respect and empathy towards others involved in the legal process.
Despite these grievances, Bove, who was then a prominent figure in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, responded by displaying the email in his office as a sign of pride. He reportedly saw such criticism as a “badge of honor.” Throughout his nearly ten years as a prosecutor, Bove handled high-profile cases amidst ongoing complaints regarding his contentious behavior—insights that provide a context for his recent role as President Donald Trump’s top enforcer at the Justice Department.
In his brief time as acting Deputy Attorney General, Bove has shown a tendency to disregard traditional protocols. He has been noted for reprimanding FBI leadership for what he described as “insubordination” related to requests for information on agents investigating the January 2021 Capitol riot, as well as for removing attorneys engaged in those investigations. Recently, he compelled former colleagues to dismiss charges against the Mayor of New York City for motivations unrelated to case strength, which contravenes established Justice Department protocols. This has raised alarm among legal experts and former prosecutors who suggest Bove might be pursuing personal agendas on behalf of the president rather than maintaining impartiality.
Christine Chung, a former federal prosecutor, noted that Bove reveled in wielding power during his prosecutorial tenure, a trait she deemed detrimental for someone in public service. Despite this, current colleagues such as Christopher Kise, who has been associated with Trump’s legal team, argues that Bove is simply performing the duties he was elected to, hinting that Bove’s approach of breaking norms is part of asserting control.
Bove is also deeply involved in reforming the FBI and the Justice Department during his acting deputy attorney general tenure. For instance, he recently convened a meeting with prosecutors to expedite the dismissal of charges against New York City’s mayor, pressuring them within a strict timeframe. His request for a comprehensive list of agents involved in the January 6 investigation has been interpreted as a move towards a potential purge within the FBI, a concerning request given that agents typically do not select the cases they investigate.
His perspective aligns with Trump’s narrative regarding the Capitol riots, which were characterized by violence and chaos that left numerous law enforcement officers injured. In a letter to remove several senior FBI officials, Bove indicated the agency’s complicity in what he deemed a “grave national injustice,” echoing the president’s sentiments.
Bove’s recent behavior and actions have puzzled many former colleagues, leaving them to question the drastic shifts in his approach. Chris O’Leary, a retired FBI agent, remarked that Bove’s current conduct is starkly different from the conscientious prosecutor he once knew, likening it to a complete transformation in character.
Bove’s future in the Justice Department remains uncertain as Trump has nominated Todd Blanche to potentially take over the position of Deputy Attorney General. If confirmed, Bove would transition to serve as Blanche’s chief advisor, an influential role within the department.
Known for his exceptional intellect and strong work ethic, Bove initially paved a notable career path that included prosecuting significant drug and terrorism cases after graduating from Georgetown University law school. He successfully indicted high-profile figures, including international political figures like Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro.
However, Bove’s bold prosecutorial strategies often drew scrutiny and raised questions about his professionalism. Numerous defense attorneys have noted instances of aggressive tactics, underscoring a pattern of behavior that has left many uneasy about his role in the legal system. A notable incident in 2018 saw various critiques compiled by the head of the federal public defender’s office about Bove, describing him as a recurring issue within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
By 2020, Bove’s actions faced allegations of prosecutorial misconduct relating to a high-stakes trial involving an Iranian banker, where vital evidence was allegedly overlooked. Although the judge did not find intentional wrongdoing, she did note the occurrence of “prosecutorial misconduct,” which resulted in the dismissal of the case.
Following his departure from government service in late 2021, Bove transitioned to become a defense attorney and subsequently joined Trump’s legal team by 2023, continuing to navigate the complex intersections of law, politics, and personal ambition.
