https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/john-durham-investigation/2021/08/17/9131b1f4-fecd-11eb-a664-4f6de3e17ff0_story.html

Special counsel John Durham — the prosecutor examining the origins of the FBI’s investigation into a possible conspiracy between Russia and Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign — has used a grand jury in recent months to seek documents and witness testimony, according to people familiar with the matter.

The burst of activity signals Durham’s inquiry, now more than two years old, remains active and is examining possible crimes — though it is unclear whether it has uncovered evidence that will ultimately support more charges. Durham’s recent inquiries, those familiar with the matter said, appear to focus on whether people outside of government might have given the FBI fabricated or exaggerated evidence to spur investigations, which could be a crime.

The people familiar with the matter spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation. The interest in people outside of government was previously reported by the Wall Street Journal.

Durham’s investigation has long faced criticism, as Democrats and legal observers have worried that the prosecutor specially appointed by then-Attorney General William P. Barr was essentially out to undercut an investigation that dogged Trump’s campaign and much of his presidency. As Durham’s probe has continued into the Biden administration, some witnesses have privately grumbled that Attorney General Merrick Garland should push the special counsel to conclude his work. The Russia investigation, they argue, already has been scrutinized by Congress and the Justice Department inspector general, who found serious flaws but determined that it was opened with adequate basis. ..