Former NIAID adviser Richard Morens indicted for concealing COVID-19 origins data

The U.S. Department of Justice indicted Dr. Richard Morens, a longtime adviser to Dr. Anthony Fauci at NIAID, on charges including conspiracy against the United States, destruction or falsification of federal records, and concealment of records. Morens served as a top adviser in NIAID's Office of the Director from 2006 to 2022. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated the allegations represent a 'profound abuse of trust' during the COVID-19 pandemic.