The Justice Department's internal watchdog said Thursday it will investigate FBI Director James Comey's decision to publicly release information about the bureau's investigation into Hillary Clinton's handling of classified material. His office also will investigate whether the FBI and Justice Department improperly disclosed information that should have remained private. The case seemed to be dead until Oct. 28 when Comey sent a letter to Congress informing lawmakers his agents were reviewing newly discovered emails potentially linked to the Clinton investigation. Comey's decision to hold a news conference and issue letters appeared to violate Justice Department guidelines prohibiting the release of information about investigations, especially those that might influence an election. His public disclosures were sharply criticized by Democrats and former high-ranking Justice Department officials.

Source: Los Angeles Times January 12, 2017 18:47 UTC