A federal judge has directed the Justice Department to either disclose unredacted Epstein-related records or explain the need for any withholdings, representing another legal challenge for the agency regarding these high-profile materials.
US District Judge Emmet Sullivan issued the ruling Thursday in a case alleging that Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche improperly redacted documents released under federal transparency requirements.
The Justice Department must respond by July 2.
Court directs release or explanation
Judge Sullivan ordered the department to either release unredacted versions of multiple Epstein files or justify continued redactions. The decision also requires production of interview notes supporting certain FBI summaries of unverified claims involving President Donald Trump, or an explanation for nondisclosure. Additionally, the department must provide a detailed log of all redactions applied to previously released Epstein materials, consistent with federal rules.
Records in question
The affected documents include eight emails with sender or recipient names obscured, a draft indictment against Epstein listing potential co-conspirators whose identities are hidden, and a 2019 email referencing alleged associates whose names stay concealed. Particular attention has focused on one email mentioning a torture video, prompting questions from lawmakers about the recipient’s identity. Acting Attorney General Blanche indicated the recipient was Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, former head of Dubai-based logistics firm DP World.
Judge faults department handling
The order arises from an April lawsuit by independent journalist Katie Phang, who claimed the extensive redactions breach federal disclosure laws. In a 48-page opinion, Sullivan noted that Blanche had not substantively defended the government’s stance. The judge rejected the argument that Phang should seek the records through the Freedom of Information Act, stating that route offers no adequate alternative.
Department sought postponement
Earlier this month the Justice Department requested a seven-day delay before any ruling favoring Phang to consider an appeal. Sullivan denied the request Thursday.
Department maintains position on redactions
Officials have argued that many redactions protect victim identities, personal data, and privileged information. They have stated that roughly half of the six million pages gathered in the Epstein investigation will ultimately be released, with the rest consisting of duplicates or unrelated material.
Since December, millions of Epstein-related records, including emails, photographs, and law enforcement files, have been made public following demands under federal law.
