Former US President Donald Trump, aged 76, has been charged with seven offences. This indictment related to his handling of classified documents after leaving the White House. Meanwhile, this marks the second indictment of Mr Trump and the first federal indictment ever filed against a former president. However, the specific charges have not been made public. They reportedly include unauthorized retention of classified files. That includes conspiracy, false statements, and obstruction of justice. Along with illegally retaining classified documents under the Espionage Act.
Legal experts have clarified that this indictment will not impede Mr Trump’s ability to run for the presidency again in 2024. Despite the charges, he has been actively campaigning for a return to the White House. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Mr Trump proclaimed his innocence. He revealed that he had been summoned to appear at a federal court in Miami, Florida, on Tuesday afternoon. He expressed astonishment that such circumstances could befall a former president and lamented the state of the US. Moreover, vowing to “Make America Great Again.”
Trump’s attorney confirms receipt of charges outlined in a summons document
According to Trump’s attorney, Jim Trusty, the charges were outlined in a summons document received by the former president. The Department of Justice (DOJ) declined to comment on the indictment. However, it has not been publicly released yet. An indictment serves to inform the accused of the charges levied against them. Meanwhile, providing notice of alleged criminal offences.
Arrangements are being made by the Secret Service to ensure the security and logistics of Mr Trump’s journey to the Miami courthouse. Special prosecutor Jack Smith was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland in November. Which has been reviewing the evidence in the case of the document. Last year, a search was conducted at Mr Trump’s Florida resort, Mar-a-Lago. Resulting in the seizure of around 11,000 documents. Including approximately 100 classified ones, some marked as top secret. Recent reports suggested that prosecutors obtained an audio recording. In which Mr Trump acknowledged retaining a classified document after his departure from the White House, a violation of US law.
Despite the indictment, legal experts emphasize that Former President Trump can run for office remains unaffected. David Super, a professor at Georgetown University Law Centre explained that he could be indicted multiple times. And still, retain his eligibility for candidacy. Even if he were to be convicted in the case of the document.
