Trump's DOJ Ends Restrictions on Seizing media records on leak probes

UPDATED: Apr 26, 2025 07:53 IST

The US Department of Justice, under President Donald Trump, has reinstated rules making it easier for federal prosecutors to compel journalists to hand over records or testify in leak investigations, according to a memo obtained by news agency Reuters. The move rolls back a Biden-era policy that largely restricted such actions.

The memo, issued by Attorney General Pam Bondi, allows subpoenas, court orders, and search warrants to be used in criminal probes to obtain information from or about members of the media.

Bondi emphasized the importance of safeguarding classified and sensitive government information, calling the new measures essential to national security and law enforcement.

The new policy took effect immediately, Reuters reported citing a source. Both the Justice Department and the White House declined to comment.

This marks a reversal of policy from the Biden administration, which under the-Attorney General Merrick Garland prohibited the DOJ from seizing journalists' communications in most circumstances — a response to public backlash after it emerged that Trump-era officials had secretly obtained records from reporters and congressional staff during leak probes.

Under Garland, journalists were generally protected unless they were personally involved in a criminal act unrelated to journalism.

Bondi’s memo, while easing restrictions, notes that any such investigative measures involving the press must be narrowly targeted, used only as a last resort, and approved by senior leadership, including the Attorney General.

In the memo, Bondi stressed that reporters would be given advance notice in many cases and that other avenues for obtaining information would be considered first.

The Trump administration has had a combative relationship with the media, previously limiting access for outlets like the Associated Press and asserting more control over press operations at the White House.

Bruce Brown, president of the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, criticized the new policy, warning it could endanger the public’s right to know. "Strong protections for journalists serve the American public by safeguarding the free flow of information," he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche recently confirmed a probe into the leak of classified details about a Venezuelan gang, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth hinted at criminal charges for former advisers connected to earlier leak investigations.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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