WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department has settled for roughly $1.2 million a lawsuit with Michael Flynn, the former national security adviser to President Donald Trump, who pleaded guilty during the Republican’s first term to lying about phone conversations with a top Russian diplomat but was later pardoned. Court papers filed Wednesday do not reveal the settlement amount, however, a person familiar with the matter confirmed the total as about $1.2 million. The resolution of this lawsuit stems from Flynn's allegations of malicious prosecution linked to the Russia investigation that had significant implications during Trump’s presidency. This marks a period of reconsideration for the Justice Department, which under the Biden administration had previously sought to dismiss Flynn's complaints. Attorney General Pam Bondi has been notably critical of the Russia probe, which ultimately led to multiple indictments against associates of Trump, including Flynn. Flynn's plea and subsequent pardoning have remained contentious issues as debates about the investigation's legitimacy continue. The Justice Department has characterized the settlement as an "important step in redressing" a historical injustice related to the Russia investigation. A spokesperson asserted the commitment towards accountability in such cases, ensuring that the federal government cannot be weaponized in future political matters. This saga has further highlighted the complexities of legal accountability amid the backdrop of political maneuvering.