Zero Tolerance: U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi terminated Department of Justice (DOJ) paralegal Elizabeth Baxter following allegations of inappropriate conduct towards National Guard members deployed in Washington D.C. The firing, effective immediately, underscores Bondi’s commitment to maintaining respect for law enforcement within the DOJ, as reported by multiple news outlets including NBC, The New York Post, and Reuters.
The Incident
The incident, which led to Baxter’s dismissal, occurred in August 2025. Elizabeth Baxter, a paralegal specialist in the DOJ’s Environmental Defense Section, Environment and Natural Resources Division, allegedly directed obscene gestures and profanities at National Guard members stationed in Washington D.C. The guardsmen were present as part of President Donald Trump’s initiative to address crime in the city.
Details of the Allegations
According to reports, the initial acts of “inappropriate conduct” took place on August 18, 2025. Baxter reportedly made an obscene gesture, described as “flipping off,” and shouted, “F–k the National Guard” and “F–k you!” at guardsmen near the Metro Center Metro Stop. Later that day, around 12:18 p.m., security cameras reportedly captured her repeating the gesture outside the DOJ’s “4CON” building in the NoMa district of Washington D.C., as detailed by The Daily Beast. On August 25, Baxter allegedly reiterated her disdain for the National Guard to a DOJ security guard, stating, “F–k off!” She also reportedly boasted about her actions to a DOJ security guard.
Attorney General Bondi’s Response
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Baxter’s termination on Friday, August 29, 2025. Bondi personally authorized the dismissal, emphasizing her stance against disrespect towards law enforcement. The termination letter cited “inappropriate conduct towards National Guard service members” as the reason for Baxter’s dismissal.
Bondi’s Stance on Law Enforcement
Attorney General Bondi has publicly stated that her DOJ will not employ individuals who “don’t support law enforcement” or “disrespect law enforcement.” This incident is viewed as a direct challenge to the mission of the DOJ under the current administration, which is committed to defending President Trump’s agenda and enhancing public safety. IBTimes UK also covered Bondi’s strong condemnation of Baxter’s actions.
Impact and Implications
The firing of Elizabeth Baxter reinforces Attorney General Bondi’s uncompromising approach to discipline and accountability within the Department of Justice. It sends a clear message that such behavior towards law enforcement will not be tolerated. This marks the second instance this month where Bondi has terminated a DOJ employee for alleged misconduct toward law enforcement.
Precedent of Disciplinary Action
Prior to Baxter’s termination, paralegal Sean Charles Dunn was also dismissed for allegedly throwing a sandwich at federal officers. These actions by Attorney General Bondi highlight a pattern of strict enforcement of conduct standards within the DOJ, ensuring that employees uphold respect for law enforcement. According to Reuters, these firings demonstrate Bondi’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy regarding disrespect towards law enforcement officials.
Conclusion
The swift termination of Elizabeth Baxter by Attorney General Pam Bondi underscores the DOJ’s unwavering commitment to supporting and respecting law enforcement. This decisive action sends a clear message that any form of disrespect towards those who serve and protect will not be tolerated within the Department of Justice under Bondi’s leadership.
