Appeals court rules Sarcone unlawfully serving as acting U.S. attorney
A federal appeals court ruled that John Sarcone III is not authorized under federal law to lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.
By the ClickNNY North Country Desk
A federal appeals court has ruled that John Sarcone III is unlawfully serving as acting U.S. attorney for the Northern District of New York. The 2-1 decision affirmed a lower-court ruling that Sarcone’s appointment as special attorney and first assistant did not comply with federal law governing high-level vacancies.
The case was brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James after Sarcone’s office subpoenaed records connected to lawsuits involving the National Rifle Association and President Donald Trump. A lower-court judge ordered the subpoenas quashed and barred Sarcone from participating in those investigations.
The appeals court’s majority questioned whether Sarcone had the qualifications and lawful appointment needed to lead the office. A dissenting judge said the attorney general had authority to delegate the powers of a U.S. attorney to Sarcone.
The ruling leaves unclear what happens next. Sarcone could appeal, and the Justice Department has not identified a nominee for the U.S. attorney position, according to the report.
Reported by ClickNNY and reviewed by an editor before publication.
More from ClickNNY
Guides and features from across the North Country.
ClickNNY Guide · Fort Drum
Fall foliage on Fort Drum and in the North Country: what to know
Fall color is on display across Fort Drum and the North Country, with recreation access rules, trail information and seasonal updates available for visitors.
ClickNNY Guide · Thousand Islands
Fishing the St. Lawrence River after summer: a fall and ice fishing guide to the Thousand Islands
When the tour boats leave, the St. Lawrence becomes a different river. Here's what's biting in the fall, how ice fishing works, exactly what to bring, how to stay safe, and where to stay, whether you're visiting for the first time or have lived here all your life.
ClickNNY Guide · Fort Drum
Your first North Country winter: a survival guide for Fort Drum soldiers from the South
Never driven on snow, owned a snow blower or felt a February morning at Fort Drum? Here's what to wear, what to keep in your car and how to get through your first lake-effect winter.