Justice chief refutes report that he is on way out

Citing legislative sources, INS reported that Somoza presented his resignation several days ago, but agreed to postpone his exit pending the filing of certain cases and the training of prosecutors.

Somoza issued a statement denying the report, saying that his “plans are to continue focusing on what I am doing.”

Somoza had reportedly been angling for an appellate court appointment, but lacked the votes for confirmation in the Senate. The INS sources also said the Justice secretary was troubled by criticism of the agency’s clearance rate in criminal cases.

“We have achieved many successes and are set to reap others,” he said.