A judge lets the DOJ rescind $800M in grants, citing lack of jurisdiction despite possible harm to vulnerable groups.

Federal Judge Upholds DOJ Grant Terminations

The Trump administration secured a significant legal victory Monday as a federal judge in Washington, D.C., ruled that the Department of Justice (DOJ) could reclaim nearly $800 million in federal grants previously awarded to programs supporting violence reduction and crime victims.

U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta denied a preliminary injunction sought by five organizations against the DOJ’s cancellation of more than 360 grant awards and approved a motion to dismiss the case. The decision clears the way for the DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs to follow through on its April plan to rescind the grants as part of a priority shift focused on supporting law enforcement, combating violent crime, and aiding American victims of trafficking and sexual assault.

“Shameful” Outcome, But Court Lacks Jurisdiction

In his written opinion, Judge Mehta criticized the DOJ’s actions as “shameful,” warning that rescinding the grants would “likely harm communities and individuals vulnerable to crime and violence.” However, he stated, “displeasure and sympathy are not enough in a court of law,” and determined the court lacked jurisdiction over the dispute. The plaintiffs, represented by the Democracy Forward Foundation and the Perry Law firm, failed to demonstrate a constitutional violation or protection that would give the court authority to intervene.

The loss of federal funding has already led to layoffs, program closures, and the breakdown of community partnerships, according to several affected organizations. They argued the DOJ’s decision denied due process, lacked transparency, and violated the constitutional separation of powers by undermining Congress’s role in appropriating federal funds.

For its part, the Justice Department maintained that there was “no legal basis for the Court to order DOJ to restore lawfully terminated grants and keep paying for programs that the Executive Branch views as inconsistent with the interests of the United States.” DOJ attorneys characterized the suit as a “run-of-the-mill contract dispute,” insisting it should be resolved in a different court.

Grant Funds to Be Redirected

The DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs has indicated it will redirect the $800 million in rescinded grant funds to other initiatives aligned with its updated priorities. While organizations that lost funding continue to voice concerns about the negative impact on vulnerable communities, the court’s ruling effectively ends their current legal challenge.

The case highlights ongoing debates over executive authority, congressional appropriations, and the federal government’s shifting priorities in law enforcement and victim support. As the DOJ reallocates resources, nonprofit and advocacy groups warn that the fallout will be felt most by those already at risk of crime and violence, with the broader implications for public safety and community trust still unfolding.