The Region : Gag Order Issued in Jet Parts Theft Case

A gag order was issued by U.S. District Judge Earl B. Gilliam in San Diego to prevent prosecutors, defense attorneys, defendants, court personnel and potential witnesses from talking to reporters about the case in which seven people have been charged with stealing F-14 fighter parts from the Navy and smuggling them to Iran. Federal prosecutors and agents already have held two press conferences to discuss the alleged smuggling ring. Gilliam also removed himself from hearing the case but gave no reason. A spokeswoman would say only that there was a potential conflict of interest. Among those indicted in the case are two sailors and a Navy civilian employee.