COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus reached an agreement to extend a preliminary injunction permanently in order to protect sensitive data exposed in July when the city's IT infrastructure was hacked.

The agreement was reached with David Leroy Ross, Jr. and extends the injunction signed in September by both parties. The new injunction is permanent and prevents Ross from sharing any of the stolen data publicly whle maintaining a dialogue with the city concerning the breach.

"During this crisis, our priority has been to keep the best interest of residents, victims, police officers, and all those impacted at heart," said City Attorney Zachary Klein in a news release. "While I remain concerned about anyone having access to this sensitive data, conversations with Mr. Ross have been positive, and all parties have agreed to move forward with an agreement that continues to prevent the dissemination of information, such as confidential law enforcement records, while protecting free speech."

Similar to the TRO issued in August and the preliminary injunction in September, Ross can still discuss the intrustion or describe the type of data exposed, including with media. Parties are awaiting the judges approval on the agreement.

“The City Attorney’s Office will continue to assist the official investigation in any way we can, and we stand ready to take legal action should any other actors attempt to disseminate information that would put the lives and safety of residents and law enforcement at risk," Klein said.

The city agreed to dismiss its civil lawsuit as part of the agreement.