NJ Criminal Cases Paused After Challenge to Top Prosecutor’s Authority

The controversy over Alina Habba’s appointment as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor grew this week as judges paused criminal cases amid a challenge by defendants who say she doesn’t legally hold the job.

Defendants facing narcotics charges are arguing that prosecutors can’t proceed with their case without a “validly appointed” US attorney in charge. The dispute could carry broad implications for criminal cases in New Jersey, and judges began postponing proceedings so that the issue can play out in court.