The facts
The judge rejected the Justice Department’s effort to preserve the authority of a US attorney through Essayli’s special-attorney and first-assistant titles after his temporary appointment expired. [1][2]
The ruling concerns participation in or supervision of two pending criminal cases. Seabright declined to dismiss the indictments; it does not establish that the defendants are guilty. [2]
AP reported that the order would not take effect until the court ruled on the government’s request for a stay pending appeal. Essayli disputed the ruling and said he would continue in his role. [1]
Still unconfirmed
- The appeal outcome and longer-term effect on Essayli’s authority remain unresolved in the checked reports.
Sources
References support the numbered facts above. Source checks: 29 Oct 2026, 03:14 UTC.
The court order itself was not directly retrieved. Actual AP and City News Service-based reports, which are independently owned, establish the ruling, limited scope and stay.
- Federal judge rules top US prosecutor in Los Angeles isn’t legally serving
The Associated Press, via ABC News · Reporting · 28 Oct 2026
- Bill Essayli unlawfully serving as top federal prosecutor, judge rules
City News Service / FOX 11 Los Angeles · Reporting · 28 Oct 2026
The page identifies City News Service reports, court records and statements as its sources. Its introduction and body differ on appeal filing; no definitive filing claim is adopted.