A federal judge has temporarily halted the release of special counsel Jack Smith’s report on investigations into former President Donald Trump, marking a significant legal development. The decision comes as the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals reviews a challenge to the report’s release.
U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon issued the injunction, which will remain in effect until three days after the appeals court rules on a related motion involving Trump’s co-defendants, Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira. The co-defendants had argued that releasing the report could jeopardize their right to a fair trial and questioned the constitutionality of Smith’s appointment as special counsel.
In her ruling, Judge Cannon stated the injunction is necessary to “preserve the status quo” until the appeals court resolves the matter, according to ABC News. The order temporarily prohibits Attorney General Merrick Garland, the Department of Justice (DOJ), and special counsel Smith from releasing or sharing the report outside the DOJ.
This decision is the latest development in the fallout from Smith’s investigations, which focus on Trump’s handling of classified documents and alleged efforts to obstruct justice. The special counsel’s office has assured the court that no portion of the report will be made public until the appeals court issues its ruling.
According to ABC News, the Justice Department has been given until Wednesday morning to respond to the co-defendants’ petition.
(With inputs from agencies)
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