Former US President Donald Trump’s attempt to dismiss the case regarding mishandling classified documents was rejected by a judge on Thursday. Trump faces accusations of mishandling sensitive government records during his presidency, with arguments centered on the classification of these documents under the Presidential Records Act.
US District Judge Aileen Cannon ruled against Trump’s motion, stating that the charges against him do not reference the Presidential Records Act or rely on it to establish an offense. This decision potentially paves the way for the defense to use the argument during the trial proceedings.
The judge had previously requested both parties to address whether national security documents could be considered personal in potential jury instructions. Special Counsel Jack Smith’s office rebuffed this argument, labeling it as “fundamentally flawed.”
Trump faces a 40-count indictment, including 32 alleged violations of the Espionage Act, which prohibits the mishandling of national defense information. Prosecutors claim that over 300 sensitive government records were unlawfully retained by Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence.
In her ruling, Judge Cannon described the case as “unprecedented and unjust,” highlighting the complexity of the legal issues at hand. The Presidential Records Act mandates the return of presidential records at the end of a term, distinguishing them from personal records which may include diaries and medical records.
Prosecutors criticized Trump’s reliance on the Presidential Records Act, alleging that it was a post hoc justification lacking factual basis from his presidency. The trial is scheduled to commence on May 20, although the judge has hinted at potential delays, with both sides asked to propose alternative dates. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
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