Judge Warns Trump and Legal Team About Witness Intimidation in Election Meddling Trial
A judge in Washington D.C., Tanya Chutkan, has issued a protective order with some limitations for former President Donald Trump and his legal team in regards to sharing sensitive evidence during his trial for alleged meddling in the 2020 election. The order, which was approved on Friday, prohibits Trump from exploiting sensitive evidence beyond the scope of the trial. It is important to note that Judge Chutkan warned that any public statements made by Trump that attack witnesses or undermine the integrity of the case could have consequences. The judge emphasized that Trump’s political campaign should not interfere with the administration of justice.
Under Chutkan’s ruling, certain materials classified as sensitive, including personally identifying information, grand jury subpoena returns, witness testimony, and related exhibits, are subject to restrictions on distribution. The order also specifies that sharing sensitive materials with individuals other than the defendant, defense counsel, and authorized personnel is not permitted.
Although Judge Chutkan did not grant requests to expand the order’s restrictions, she did caution Trump’s lawyers against making inflammatory statements that could potentially bias the jury pool. She pointed out that such statements could bolster the government’s request for a speedy trial. The Department of Justice has proposed a trial date of January 2, 2024.
This development allows Trump’s legal team to begin receiving discovery materials from the Department of Justice in preparation for the trial.
