> In July, FBI Director James B. Comey said while the investigation revealed potential violations, “our judgement is that no reasonable prosecutor would bring such a case.”

In other words, crimes were probably committed but the FBI dropped the investigation because they figured that no prosecutor would file charges in the case.

I don't see this really addressing the fact that deleting data permanently after you find out the FBI wants to look at those devices is a bit weird.

A plausible justification was given. It makes sense. It also has nothing to do with Hillary's decision-making. You can call all the people involved liars, or just deny the facts that have been presented to you - but the facts, as presented, do portray innocent behavior.