Overview
- The temporary restraining order directs the government to identify, segregate and secure data taken from Richman’s devices and to bar access without court approval by 12 p.m. ET on Dec. 8.
- The access restrictions will remain in effect through Dec. 12 unless the court modifies the order.
- Prosecutors had relied on Richman-derived files to charge James Comey with false statements and obstruction related to his 2020 congressional testimony about anonymous disclosures to reporters.
- After the Nov. 24 dismissal over lead prosecutor Lindsey Halligan’s unlawful appointment, the Justice Department is considering whether to seek a new indictment.
- The ruling stems from Richman’s lawsuit alleging unconstitutional seizures and searches in 2019–2020, and a magistrate judge has separately criticized prior handling of the seized materials.