Prosecutors Seek Gag Order On Bulger Lawyers

Federal prosecutors in Boston on Thursday asked a judge to order lawyers for James "Whitey" Bulger to stop discussing his upcoming murder and racketeering trial with the media.

A government motion accuses the Bulger defense team of violating a rule against trying to improperly influence potential jurors through the media.

The motion is based on the lawyers' regular practice of answering reporters' questions after most court proceedings.

Prosecutors claim defense counsel "routinely attempt to bolster the credibility of the defendant and cast aspersions on the government through statements to the press."

Aside from ordering defense lawyers to stop making comments outside the court, prosecutors are also asking the judge to consider other unspecified steps to ensure fairness.