U.S.Magistrate Judge Laura McNally ruled that the Justice Department violated a federal sealing order by discussing a sealed case during a press conference led by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.

The case, related to the Trump administration's crackdown on the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, was still under seal when details were shared publicly.

McNally criticized Blanche for making statements about sealed documents during the event, calling it a 'clear violation' of the court's order.She emphasized that the sealing directive was unambiguous and that the department's actions breached judicial authority.

While Boutros argued the press conference constituted law enforcement action, McNally rejected this, asserting that courts have authority over executive disclosures.

The ruling highlights tensions between transparency and secrecy in legal proceedings, with three other judges also raising concerns about the department's conduct.No sanctions were imposed, but the incident underscores ongoing scrutiny of executive branch compliance with judicial orders.