Todd Blanche sued over Epstein investigation; New Mexico alleges DOJ obstruction

The Story in Brief

New Mexico has sued Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche and the Department of Justice in federal court in Washington, DC, accusing them of blocking access to records in the state’s investigation of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The lawsuit, filed by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, says federal officials “stonewalled” the probe and prevented investigators from obtaining relevant materials after ten separate requests produced either no response or denials. The state is asking a court to compel the DOJ to provide the requested information.

The complaint says DOJ actions have harmed victims and impeded inquiry into allegations linked to Epstein’s former ranch in Stanley, New Mexico, bought in 1993 and located about 30 miles south of Santa Fe. The DOJ replied that some records cannot be released because federal court orders bar disclosure of victim-identifying information “carte blanche,” that New Mexico has not shown a legal basis for broad disclosure, and that the department remains available to assist consistent with law. The DOJ and Blanche are not accused of involvement in Epstein’s crimes.

The Indian Opinion

The coverage shows two sharply competing claims: New Mexico’s accusation of obstruction and the Justice Department’s insistence on legal limits to disclosure to protect victims. Strong language such as “stonewalled” and the suggestion that a single official could immediately grant access risk implying bad faith before a court decides. At the same time, allegations that restrictions have impeded accountability and harmed victims deserve scrutiny. Ordinary readers would welcome clarity on what specific records are sought, the court orders the DOJ cites, and whether redactions could be narrowed. Where facts about legal technicalities are thin, the court process should determine whether disclosure is lawful and proportionate.

Original article: Todd Blanche hit with lawsuit over Jeffrey Epstein probe; New Mexico alleges DOJ ‘obstructed’ case (www.hindustantimes.com)

This story was summarised and commented on by AI from the source linked above.