Erez Reuveni is a former senior attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) who gained national attention in 2025 after filing a whistleblower complaint alleging that senior DOJ officials, including Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, directed subordinates to defy federal court orders related to deportations.
Reuveni served nearly 15 years at the DOJ, rising to the position of Acting Deputy Director of the Office of Immigration Litigation (OIL). His responsibilities included overseeing the government’s defense in significant immigration cases across U.S. district courts. He was recognized for his legal expertise and had received multiple accolades for his work, including awards for leading litigation efforts on issues such as sanctuary cities and executive orders related to immigration.
In June 2025, Reuveni submitted a protected whistleblower disclosure to Congress, the DOJ Inspector General, and the U.S. Office of Special Counsel. He alleged that, in March 2025, DOJ leadership, including Bove, instructed attorneys to ignore court orders halting deportations under the Alien Enemies Act. Reuveni provided internal emails and text messages corroborating his claims, including a reported comment from Bove suggesting that DOJ attorneys might need to tell the courts “f*** you” and disregard judicial orders.
Reuveni’s whistleblower complaint was partly triggered by his involvement in the case of Kilmar Abrego García, a Salvadoran national who was deported to El Salvador despite a court order barring his removal. During a federal court hearing in April 2025, Reuveni admitted that the deportation was a mistake and expressed frustration over the lack of information provided by the government. Following this admission, the DOJ suspended and later fired Reuveni, citing his failure to “zealously advocate” for the government’s position.
Reuveni’s allegations have had significant political and legal implications. Senator Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has called for an investigation into Bove’s conduct, arguing that the alleged actions undermine the rule of law. The DOJ and Bove have denied the allegations, with Attorney General Pam Bondi dismissing Reuveni as a “disgruntled former employee” and labeling his claims as “categorically untrue”.
Early Life and Education
Details about Erez Reuveni’s early life, including his date of birth, nationality, and ethnicity, remain private. His educational background includes a law degree, and he is a licensed attorney in California, as indicated by his California State Bar profile.
Career at the Department of Justice
Entry into the DOJ
Reuveni began his legal career at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he served in various capacities over the years. His roles included Assistant Director and Acting Deputy Director of the Office of Immigration Litigation (OIL), positions that placed him at the forefront of the DOJ’s immigration enforcement efforts. Throughout his tenure, Reuveni handled some of the most sensitive immigration and constitutional law cases, earning a reputation for his legal acumen and steadfast adherence to ethical standards.
Legal Philosophy and Approach
Known for his rigorous legal analysis and commitment to justice, Reuveni consistently advocated for positions grounded in law, even when they conflicted with political pressures. His approach to legal practice emphasized transparency, accountability, and respect for judicial authority, principles that guided his work throughout his career at the DOJ.
Notable Cases
During his time at the DOJ, Reuveni was involved in several high-profile cases, particularly in the realm of immigration law. His work often intersected with national security concerns, civil liberties, and the application of federal immigration statutes. While specific case details are not publicly disclosed, his role in these matters underscored his expertise and the trust placed in him by the department.
Whistleblower Allegations
The Allegations
In June 2025, Erez Reuveni filed a whistleblower complaint alleging that senior DOJ officials, including Emil Bove, had instructed attorneys to ignore federal court orders related to deportations. Reuveni claimed that Bove suggested they might need to tell the courts to “f*** you” to proceed with deportation flights. He provided internal emails and text messages to the Senate Judiciary Committee that he argued corroborated his claims.
Repercussions and Response
Following his disclosures, Reuveni was placed on administrative leave and subsequently fired by the DOJ. Attorney General Pam Bondi dismissed his allegations as false, labeling him a “disgruntled former employee.” Reuveni’s whistleblower complaint has led to calls for investigations into the alleged misconduct, with some lawmakers and legal experts expressing concern over the integrity of the DOJ’s actions.
The Kilmar Abrego García Case
Background
Kilmar Abrego García, a Salvadoran national, was granted withholding of removal in 2019, which prohibited his deportation to El Salvador due to the threat of gang violence. Despite this legal protection, García was deported on March 15, 2025, in what the DOJ later acknowledged as an “administrative error.” This deportation occurred despite a federal court order barring his removal.
Reuveni’s Involvement
During a court hearing, Reuveni admitted that the deportation was a mistake and expressed frustration over the lack of information provided by the government regarding García’s return. His admission led to his suspension and eventual termination from the DOJ. Reuveni’s handling of the case and his subsequent whistleblower complaint highlighted concerns about the DOJ’s adherence to judicial orders and its treatment of legal professionals who uphold ethical standards.
Personal Life
Information about Erez Reuveni’s personal life, including his family, marital status, and net worth, is not publicly available. He has maintained a private life outside of his professional endeavors, focusing public attention on his legal work and whistleblower activities.
Conclusion
Erez Reuveni’s career at the Department of Justice exemplifies a commitment to legal integrity and the rule of law. His decision to become a whistleblower, despite the personal and professional risks, underscores his dedication to ethical principles in the face of governmental pressure. While his actions have led to significant controversy, they have also sparked important discussions about accountability and transparency within federal agencies. Reuveni’s legacy serves as a reminder of the vital role that legal professionals play in safeguarding the justice system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Erez Reuveni?
Erez Reuveni is a former senior attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice who became known for his whistleblower disclosures regarding alleged misconduct within the DOJ.
What did Erez Reuveni allege in his whistleblower complaint?
Reuveni alleged that senior DOJ officials, including Emil Bove, instructed attorneys to defy federal court orders related to deportations.
What was the Kilmar Abrego García case?
Kilmar Abrego García, a Salvadoran national, was deported despite having legal protection against removal. The DOJ later admitted the deportation was an error.
What were the consequences for Erez Reuveni after his disclosures?
Reuveni was placed on administrative leave and subsequently fired by the DOJ.
How did the DOJ respond to Reuveni’s allegations?
Attorney General Pam Bondi dismissed Reuveni’s claims as false and labeled him a “disgruntled former employee.”
What impact did Reuveni’s whistleblowing have?
His disclosures led to calls for investigations into the alleged misconduct and sparked debates about DOJ practices.
Is Erez Reuveni licensed to practice law?
Yes, Reuveni is a licensed attorney in California.
What is the significance of the Kilmar Abrego García case?
The case highlighted concerns about the DOJ’s adherence to judicial orders and the treatment of legal professionals who uphold ethical standards.
Has Erez Reuveni published any works?
As of now, there is no public record of Reuveni authoring any publications.
