Judge Threatens Arrest of Pam Bondi as House Subpoenas Her Over Epstein Files Handling

WASHINGTON — Attorney General Pam Bondi faces mounting legal peril after a federal judge warned of potential arrest for contempt if she continues obstructing justice in immigration cases, while the House Oversight Committee voted to subpoena her over the Justice Department’s handling of Jeffrey Epstein files. The bipartisan move — including support from Republicans — marks a dramatic escalation in scrutiny of Bondi’s tenure.

The contempt warning came amid at least 35 instances since August where federal judges in California, Texas, Florida, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, West Virginia and Puerto Rico ordered the administration to explain noncompliance with court orders on immigration enforcement. Former federal judge Jeremy Fogel, now executive director of the Berkeley Judicial Institute, described contempt power as “rarely exercised” but carrying real teeth when invoked. “Judges have the authority and will use it,” Fogel said.

Bondi’s credibility has eroded rapidly. Lawmakers accuse her office of monitoring congressional searches of unredacted Epstein files, with Bondi spotted holding a list of documents accessed by Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). CBS News reported the DOJ’s tracking sparked outrage, with critics calling it an encroachment on congressional autonomy.

The House Oversight Committee subpoena vote followed accusations Bondi obstructed justice by delaying releases, over-redacting documents and politicizing the DOJ. Survivors of Epstein’s abuse attended hearings wearing shirts demanding full transparency, adding pressure. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) warned Bondi against relying on prepared notes: “I have a lot more questions… she better not bring those notes.”

Bondi faces potential felony charges for obstruction, perjury and abuse of power. Legal experts say her refusal to answer key questions — including why certain files remain hidden — risks contempt referrals. Judges have threatened sanctions, including arrest, if she persists.

Trump has privately criticized Bondi as “weak,” signaling possible abandonment. Sources say he may distance himself if her troubles worsen, echoing patterns with past aides. Bondi’s defenders call the scrutiny partisan, but even allies acknowledge the pressure.

The Epstein files controversy has fueled perceptions of selective transparency. Bondi is accused of shielding allies while pursuing Trump’s enemies. Public outrage grows, with calls for full release intensifying.

As the subpoena looms, Bondi’s political future hangs in the balance. Her loyalty to Trump — once a strength — now appears a liability. If held in contempt or prosecuted, she could face prison time, marking a stunning fall for the former Florida attorney general.

The episode underscores broader tensions between the executive branch and judiciary. Judges across ideological lines have rebuked the DOJ for noncompliance, eroding the presumption of regularity. Whether congressional oversight can force accountability remains uncertain, but Bondi’s nightmare is unfolding in real time.