Feds explain (sort of) why they really want data on seized iPhone 5S
Federal prosecutors in New York have responded to a judge’s request that they explain why the government still needs Apple’s help to unlock an iPhone 5S after a recent guilty plea.
The case involves a man named Jun Feng, who pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Feng was charged in conjunction with six other defendants. And as part of the government's effort to convict Feng, the feds wanted—and still want—Apple’s help to unlock Feng’s seized iPhone 5S running iOS 7. Last Friday, United States Magistrate Judge James Orenstein invited the prosecutors to explain why it was still necessary for him to sign off on a proposed order that would compel Apple’s assistance.
"In light of the fact that the defendant against whom evidence from the subject telephone was to be used has pleaded guilty, I respectfully direct the government to explain why the application is not moot," he wrote.
