Special counsel Jack Smith, in a uncommon public assertion Friday, mentioned his workplace will search a speedy trial in its felony case towards former President Trump.
“It’s very important for me to note that the defendants in this case must be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law,” he mentioned in his first remarks since Mr. Trump’s indictment was unsealed earlier Friday. “To that end, my office will seek a speedy trial in this matter, consistent with the public interest and the rights of the accused.”
Mr. Smith introduced a 37-count indictment towards Mr. Trump, together with 31 counts of willful retention of nationwide protection info. The indictment additionally states that Mr. Trump saved categorized paperwork all through his Mar-a-Lago residence, together with a ballroom, bathe and storage room.
Just moments earlier than Mr. Smith’s assertion, Mr. Trump took to social media and attacked him. Mr. Smith described the prosecutor as “deranged” and a “Trump Hater” who shouldn’t be concerned in any case “having to do with Justice.”
During transient remarks from the particular counsel’s workplace, Mr. Smith urged all Americans to learn the 49-page indictment towards Mr Trump, saying it was essential to grasp the “scope and gravity of the crimes charged.”
“Our laws that protect national defense information are critical to the safety and security of the United States and they must be enforced,” Mr. Smith mentioned. Violations of these legal guidelines put our nation in danger.”
Mr. Smith mentioned his crew investigated the case “to the highest ethical standards” and he was deeply happy with them.
“We have one set of laws in this country and they apply to everyone,” Mr. Smith mentioned, including that his workplace collected info and utilized these legal guidelines throughout their investigation.
“That’s what determines the outcome of an investigation. Nothing more and nothing less,” he mentioned of the proof.
Walt Nauta, a Trump aide, was indicted Friday on prices that he lied to investigators when he was interviewed by the FBI in May 2022.
Attorney General Merrick Garland tasked Mr. Smith in November with wanting into whether or not Mr. Trump dedicated any crimes when he introduced categorized paperwork to Mar-a-Lago on the finish of his presidency.
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