DC public schools face special grand jury probe into attendance, truancy and graduation records

Federal prosecutors have launched a rare special grand jury probe into D.C. public schools, zeroing in on truancy, graduation rates and attendance records.

The investigation, which was first reported by The Washington Post , is examining the supervision and oversight of young people in the nation’s capital, according to people familiar with the matter.

D.C. public schools have been contacted about truancy and graduation rates, as well as attendance records.

One law enforcement official emphasized this probe is about, "safeguarding youth in the District." The use of a special grand jury is unusual.

Fox News is told a judge must approve the creation of such a panel, which can conduct a sweeping investigation and issue a detailed report on its findings even if prosecutors ultimately file no criminal charges.

DETROIT SCHOOLS OFFER STUDENTS UP TO $1,000 FOR PERFECT ATTENDANCE AS PROGRAM EXPANDS A spokesperson for U.S.

Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s office told the Washington Post it could neither confirm nor deny an investigation.

The office of D.C.

Mayor Muriel Bowser said its focus remains on the new school year.

"Our focus remains on welcoming students and families back for a strong start to the new school year, and that is what we want our principals and teachers focused on as well," the mayor’s office told the Washington Post.

"We make all school data public and will continue to do so." CHAOTIC TEEN BRAWL GOES VIRAL AFTER TEEN TERROR PROMPTS US ATTORNEY PIRRO'S PLAN TO PROSECUTE PARENTS The Washington Post reported that senior prosecutor Steven Vandervelden, one of Pirro’s top allies in the U.S. attorney’s office, is overseeing the inquiry.

Pirro has repeatedly linked school truancy to youth crime and disruptive teen gatherings in the District.

At a May news conference, she said authorities could take action when teens repeatedly break curfew or skip school.

GRADY JUDD PUTS PARENTS ON NOTICE OVER TIKTOK TEEN TAKEOVERS: 'WE'RE GONNA COME LOCK YOU UP TOO' "We’re coming for you, and we’re coming for your parents," Pirro said.