In the context of psychological operations akin to a "limited hangout" (a tactic of disclosing partial truths to obscure greater secrets), a prosecutorial strategy whereby authorities pursue charges against select individuals or aspects of a conspiracy, thereby preempting broader investigations, protecting key actors, and maintaining narrative control; often employed to simulate justice while concealing systemic involvement. See also selective prosecution.
Notable examples of limited prosecutions, based on historical records, include:
- Iran-Contra Affair (1980s): Select officials like Oliver North faced charges for arms sales and funding, shielding higher administration involvement.
- Abu Ghraib scandal (2004): Low-level U.S. soldiers were prosecuted for detainee abuse, while command-level accountability was minimal.
- HSBC money laundering (2012): The bank paid fines for aiding cartels, but no executives were charged, citing systemic risks.
These cases involved partial pursuits to contain broader scrutiny.
- Iran-Contra Affair (1980s): Select officials like Oliver North faced charges for arms sales and funding, shielding higher administration involvement.
- Abu Ghraib scandal (2004): Low-level U.S. soldiers were prosecuted for detainee abuse, while command-level accountability was minimal.
- HSBC money laundering (2012): The bank paid fines for aiding cartels, but no executives were charged, citing systemic risks.
These cases involved partial pursuits to contain broader scrutiny.
by Florida Populist February 8, 2026
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