In an uncommon public statement, Special Counsel Jack Smith has expressed his intention to pursue a prompt trial in the criminal case against former President Trump. Addressing the media for the first time since the unsealing of Mr. Trump’s indictment earlier on Friday, Smith emphasized the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence for the defendants until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. He stated, “To that end, my office will seek a speedy trial in this matter, consistent with the public interest and the rights of the accused.”
Smith, as the special counsel, has levied a 37-count indictment against Mr. Trump, which notably includes 31 counts of willful retention of national defense information. The indictment alleges that the former president stored classified documents in various areas of his Mar-a-Lago residence, such as a ballroom, shower, and storage room.
Coinciding with Smith’s statement, Mr. Trump resorted to social media to launch a scathing attack on the prosecutor. Describing Smith as “deranged” and a “Trump Hater,” the former president criticized his involvement in any case “having to do with Justice.”
During a brief address from the special counsel’s office, Smith urged all Americans to thoroughly examine the 49-page indictment against Mr. Trump, stressing the significance of comprehending the “scope and gravity of the crimes charged.” He emphasized the crucial role of laws safeguarding national defense information in ensuring the safety and security of the United States, asserting the necessity of their enforcement to prevent risks to the country.
Smith affirmed that his team conducted the investigation with the utmost ethical standards and expressed deep pride in their work. He reiterated the fundamental principle that the laws of the country apply uniformly to all individuals. The special counsel underscored the importance of collecting facts and applying the law impartially, asserting that these factors determine the outcome of an investigation, neither more nor less.
Additionally, a Trump aide named Walt Nauta was indicted on Friday on charges of providing false information to FBI investigators during a May 2022 interview.
Attorney General Merrick Garland assigned Jack Smith in November to examine potential criminal activities by Mr. Trump regarding the possession of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago towards the end of his presidency.
{Matzav.com}
“He reiterated the fundamental principle that the laws of the country apply uniformly to all Republicans.”
President Trump’s bogus indictment sets a precedent. What will Jack Smith when they go after the former Presidents, the real criminal with heinous crimes against children?
President Biden did nothing wrong by illegally storing classified documents in his personal garage. I will not be doing any investigations into Joe or Hunter. I will only go after white Republican males.
Running hunted. That seems half it.
Donald Trump just leaves open ends for a lane to prosecute.
This is not the art of any deal.
Every president took documents. We’re enraged at his selective prosecution and persecution. Smith is a thug at the behest of Garfinkel and Brandon.