The Prosecutor Vetting Commission has successfully concluded the first phase of the vetting process for prosecutors from the Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases (PCCOCS). This initial stage focused on collecting essential background documentation from prosecutors officially notified on May 7 and June 3, 2025.

A total of 90 prosecutors were included in this phase – 78 from PCCOCS and 12 from the General Prosecutor’s Office. They were required to submit the following:

  • Declarations of assets and interests for the past five years;
  • A list of close relatives employed in the judiciary, prosecution service, or public sector;
  • A completed ethics and integrity questionnaire.

Following the official notifications and within the 20-day submission deadline, 15 prosecutors from PCCOCS and 2 from the General Prosecutor’s Office resigned from their positions. The remaining 73 prosecutors submitted all required documents in full and on time. Based on the information received, the Commission will now begin evaluating each prosecutor’s financial and ethical profile, in accordance with the criteria outlined in Law No. 252/2023 on the External Evaluation of Judges and Prosecutors.

Christopher Lehmann, Chairperson of the Prosecutor Vetting Commission, mentioned that: “the timely responses from the majority of prosecutors show that the vetting process is moving forward with transparency and accountability.”

“Where necessary, the Commission will request additional supporting information – not only from the prosecutors themselves, but also from public authorities, financial institutions, businesses, and other relevant sources. Public hearings will then be held for each prosecutor. Every evaluation will conclude with a written report, recommending either that the prosecutor passes or fails the vetting. This report will be shared both with the prosecutor and the Superior Council of Prosecutors, which issues the final decision”, he added.

This rigorous vetting process is part of a broader effort to strengthen public trust in the justice system and ensure the development of an independent, professional, and accountable prosecution service in Moldova.