David Gregory won't be charged for displaying ammunition clip

The D.C. attorney general says charging the "Meet the Press" host "would not promote public safety"

Published January 13, 2013 6:17PM (EST)

NBC's David Gregory will not face charges for exhibiting a 30-round magazine for an assault rifle on "Meet The Press" last month in violation of D.C. law, according to the D.C. attorney general.

In a letter to NBC, obtained by the Washington Post, Attorney General Irvin B. Nathan said he decided to use “prosecutorial discretion” and not bring charges against Gregory, because “Prosecution would not promote public safety in the District of Columbia, nor serve the best interests of the people."

But, Nathan warned:

NBC should be made aware that OAG's decision not to press charges in this matter was a very close decision and not one to which it came lightly or easily. Accordingly, NBC and its employees should take meticulous care in the future to ensure that it is in full compliance with D.C. law whether its actions involve firearms or any other potential violation. Repetition by NBC or any employee of any similar or other firearms violation will be prosecuted to the full extent supported by the facts and the law.

D.C. law enforcement has been investigating Gregory over a Dec. 23 broadcast, in which he brandished the magazine during an interview with NRA executive vice president Wayne LaPierre.


By Jillian Rayfield

Jillian Rayfield is an Assistant News Editor for Salon, focusing on politics. Follow her on Twitter at @jillrayfield or email her at jrayfield@salon.com.

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