FBI searches Giardini's home

MOBILE, Ala. - Still more questions than answers about the investigation of a former Mobile County Assistant District Attorney. A federal judge sealed the search warrant which allowed FBI agents to search the home of Steve Giardini.

FBI agents searched a midtown home in Mobile this weekend, but what we still don't know is what the FBI was looking for or what agents found.

"In federal court they're much more wary. Of course the stakes are higher in federal court," said Attorney Dom Soto.

The home belongs to former Assistant D.A. Steve Giardini. Giardini stepped down from the District Attorney's office this past weekend.

On Tuesday, the warrant was sealed by Federal Judge William Cassady. Attorney Dom Soto, who is not connected to this case, sat down to explain the process.

Soto said in addition to the high stakes involved is a federal investigation, another reason could be the judge or the U.S. Attorney's office thinks releasing this information would compromise the investigation.

"In a case that has perhaps child, or make-believe child, or allegations of sexual impropriates there may be privacy reasons, an don't forget the defendant has privacy reasons for sure," Soto said.

The only side that can request to seal a warrant is the prosecution. When a search warrant is officially sealed, the investigation continues and it could take awhile for it to be completed, and for the public to find out the information included, that might not happen until the accused person goes to court.

"It will not be unsealed until there is an indictment, if there is one, or after the trial begins," Soto said.

Soto said that sealing information is not uncommon, especially when the investigation is ongoing. Giardini handled hundreds of cases involving child sex offenders and predators.

It's important to note that Giardini has not been charged with any crime.