A U.S. appeals court found that John Sarcone was appointed illegally.
The court barred him from looking into New York Attorney General Letitia James. It also maintained a block on subpoenas from the U.S. Justice Department to her office. The ruling was released on August 21 2026.
The decision prevents the administration from continuing its case against a political opponent. It creates uncertainty about Senate confirmation for the Albany prosecutor. Senate confirmation had been pending for the Albany position. The decision was reported by multiple news organisations.