In other words, a sword of Damocles is hanging over the head of Ms Dorries.

BBC: Nadine Dorries still under sword of Damocles

"The sword of Damocles has been hanging for a little while now, " he told 5 Live.

BBC: Coventry plan for administration

The DOJ understood that a traditional indictment could destroy the company, and it dangled this Sword of Damocles in order to get what it wanted.

FORBES: Justice 'Deferred'

"It keeps the sword of Damocles still above his head, " said Doug Muzzio, a professor of public affairs at Baruch College.

WSJ: Trial Tied to Liu Delayed