Iran-Contra records destruction (1986-1987)
National Security Council aide Oliver North and his secretary Fawn Hall shredded and altered documents about secret arms sales to Iran and aid to Nicaraguan rebels. Independent counsel Lawrence Walsh charged North with obstruction, falsification of records, and destroying documents.
North was convicted in 1989 on three counts, including destroying documents, and sentenced to a suspended prison term and community service.
The convictions were vacated on appeal because immunized congressional testimony tainted the prosecution. The case became the modern template for how federal records cases against political appointees unravel between Congress and the courts.
Like Morens, North was charged for hiding records that exposed an internal policy fight. The case shows how parallel congressional and criminal proceedings, and any pardon power exercised over related actors, can complicate the prosecution.