October 25, 2019 PIL Task Force [via email 3. Team, It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you that I am stepping down as co- chair of the PIL Task Force 1 also informed my U.S. Attomcy yesterday that I am resigning from the Department of Justice. At its core, I always viewed this matter as a critical opportunity to deter the corporate misconduct and greed that fuels the nations opioid crisis. I viewed it as an opportunity to save lives. Over a year ago, EDTX had a complaint ready to file against .publicly and transparently?for its obvious Controlled Substances Act violations in our district. To me, success in this matter always meant, above all else, public accountability. There is a countervailing view within the Department that prioritizes settlements, nolwithstanding the fact that the Department has settled these large pharmaceutical matters for years with insuf?cient deterrence to show for it. I thought it was time for a more aggressive approach. Even so, I did my best to honor DAG Rod Rosenstein?s directive from late 2018 to work toward reaching a resolution with the company. - however, has abused the Department?s fairness, largely ignored our subpoena, and scoffed at our larger work on behalf of all Americans. I appreciate that there are rational disagreements about how best to proceed, and I respect those divergent views. However, I deeply regret that Department leadership prevented EDTX from ?ling its lawsuit in 2013. We met with family members of the deceased here in our Plano of?ce, and we assured them we would quickly hold accountable those responsible for the deaths oftheir loved ones. One ofthe widowers cried in our office recounting how he has been raising his daughters alone. I failed to make good on that promise, and I will carry that with me always. Now, cognizant of the many deaths it has caused, -rede'?nes shamefulness by claiming it is a victim. When I took my oath of of?ce, I invoked God?s judgment and swore that I would support and defend the Constitution and that I would ?well and faithfully discharge the duties of the otlice." As Winston Churchill advised, I feel required to take these steps now due to ?convictions of honour and good sense.? Corporations cannot poison Americans with impunity. Good sense dictates stern and swift action when Americans die. I want to express speeial gratitude to those of you at DEA who have been so supportive during this investigation. It has betel] an honor to work beside you. Here. during Red Ribbon Week, you should know that this father of two young boys is deeply grateful for your work. I pray this team can achieve meaningful and deterrenee in this matter. I obviously do not make this deeision I have enjoyed getting to know eaeh of you, and I am proud of this group?s hard work. [have asked? to serve as representative on this matter. - is a phenomenally talented attorney, and he is familiar with our work in this ease. I wish you all the best in your eareers and in your lives. I have ineluded my personal email address below, and I invite you to stay in toueh. Best regards, at ?eas Joshua M. Russ