Virginia mother slams Steve Descano for protecting illegal immigrants, calls for DOJ probe

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — A victims’ rights advocacy group and the mother of a murder victim have filed a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice, alleging that Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano is prioritizing the interests of illegal immigrants over public safety.

The complaint, filed by the Victims Rights Reform Council (VRRC) on behalf of Cheryl Minter, the mother of Stephanie Minter, seeks a federal investigation into whether the prosecutor’s office violated equal protection standards.

The core of the complaint centers on the death of Stephanie Minter, who was killed at a Fairfax bus stop on February 23. The suspect, Abdul Jalloh, is an illegal immigrant with a history of violent offenses.

READ | Illegal immigrant accused in deadly Virginia stabbing previously picked up by ICE in 2018

According to the filing, Fairfax County Police had repeatedly warned prosecutors about Jalloh’s behavior prior to the killing.

Documentation cited in the complaint includes warnings from law enforcement that Jalloh showed a “blatant disregard for human life” and was a “danger to the community.”

SEE ALSO | ICE held Abdul Jalloh for nearly 2 years before judge’s ruling forced his release

The VRRC argues that Jalloh’s release was a direct result of a written office policy titled “Consideration of Immigration Consequences.” The policy instructs prosecutors to negotiate case resolutions that “avoid or lessen” collateral immigration consequences, such as deportation.

“My daughter died because Fairfax prosecutors chose ideology over safety, favoritism over equal justice, and leniency for an illegal immigrant over protection for innocent citizens,” Cheryl Minter said in the complaint.

MORE | Family of murdered mother pushing for recall of Fairfax County prosecutor Steve Descano

The controversy is also moving toward Capitol Hill. Descano was called to testify on May 14 before the House Judiciary immigration subcommittee, where lawmakers are expected to examine the impact of local sanctuary-style policies on community safety.