It’s often quipped that it’s so easy to secure a grand jury indictment that even a ham sandwich could be found guilty if prosecutors so desired. However, in a twist of irony that seems to defy even the lowest bars of legal standards, the Department of Justice has spectacularly failed to indict a man for throwing a sandwich. Sean Charles Dunn, a former DOJ employee, allegedly hurled a Subway sandwich at a federal agent while expressing his displeasure by calling the agent a fascist. This incident, occurring amidst the backdrop of Donald Trump’s controversial militarization of Washington D.C., has not only gone viral but has also raised eyebrows at the DOJ’s response.

In what could be seen as an alarmingly heavy-handed move, Dunn was arrested by no fewer than 20 law enforcement officers donned in riot gear. This dramatic action was taken despite the seemingly trivial nature of the offense—assault with a deli meat. The New York Times reports that Dunn’s legal troubles may not be over as prosecutors deliberate over their next steps. They might either attempt to secure another grand jury indictment or downgrade the charges to a misdemeanor, which would simplify legal proceedings by eliminating the need for a grand jury.

This incident has fast become a source of public ridicule and embarrassment for the DOJ, particularly in light of recent events where numerous federal charges related to Trump’s policies in D.C. have been withdrawn after closer scrutiny. Critics argue that this case exemplifies a misallocation of DOJ resources and a lack of proportionality in law enforcement responses. This is seen especially in contrast to the public's apparent disapproval of the federal government's increased militarized presence in the nation's capital.

The public and media response has been mixed with humor and disbelief, underscoring the absurdity of deploying riot gear-clad officers to arrest a man over a sandwich attack. This case has not only provided fodder for news columns but also sparked debates about the appropriateness and efficacy of federal responses to minor incidents. As the DOJ contemplates its next move, the fate of both Dunn and the notorious ham sandwich remains uncertain, hanging in the balance of legal technicalities and public opinion.