A federal judge warned Attorney General Todd Blanche Wednesday that he could face contempt proceedings if the Department of Justice fails to comply with an order involving the release or review of Epstein files.
Why it matters: The case could force the DOJ to release additional Epstein records or remove redactions that a court determines aren't permitted under the law.
What they're saying: U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan wrote in a 20-page order Wednesday that a civil contempt charge would be "premature" for now, but warned it could become appropriate if Blanche fails to comply with the court's renewed order.
The other side: "Our filings will speak for themselves," a DOJ spokesperson told Axios in an emailed statement.
Catch up quick: Independent journalist Katie Phang brought the lawsuit, alleging the DOJ hasn't released all documents required under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Congress passed last November.
Zoom in: Sullivan ruled Wednesday that the DOJ provided adequate documentation showing some email redactions were made to protect survivors' privacy.
Yes, but: Sullivan acknowledged that some redactions covered the names and email addresses of a government attorney and law enforcement personnel, which the DOJ's review protocol requires to be redacted.
State of play: The lawsuit is one of several seeking additional transparency or alleging DOJ errors related to the Epstein files, which have generated legal and political scrutiny of the Trump administration.
What we're watching: A House discharge petition is two signatures shy of forcing a vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act II, which would enforce and expand the release of remaining DOJ files.
Go deeper: House GOP's Epstein files headache is back
Editor's note: This story has been updated with a DOJ statement.
