WASHINGTON – Following false reports from the outlet “The Root” that the U.S. Department of Justice was urged to cease its independent investigation in Ferguson, Mo., the Justice Department issued the following statement dispelling such rumors:

“This report is inaccurate. The Justice Department has consistently said it will not conclude our investigation until it is complete, and the senator has not attempted to urge anything different.” – Dena Iverson, Justice Department spokeswoman

U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill issued the following statement:

“Ludicrous rumors like this are dangerous, and only serve to distract from the important work that needs to be happening in Ferguson.”