Former US President Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty to charges of mishandling classified documents in a federal court in Miami, Florida. Trump, accompanied by his lawyers, arrived early at the courthouse wearing a dark suit and his trademark red tie.
The proceedings took place without TV cameras, but reporters present noted Trump’s presence and demeanor, occasionally crossing his arms during the hearing.
The case, led by special counsel Jack Smith appointed by the Department of Justice, involves 37 charges against Trump. Thirty-one of these charges pertain to willfully retaining documents related to national defense, including one concerning the US’s nuclear weaponry, as stated in the indictment.
If found guilty on all charges, Trump could face up to 400 years in prison. Walt Nauta, an aide to the former President, is also facing six charges as a co-accused in the case.
This historic event marks the first time a former US President has faced federal crime charges. In April, Trump was charged by the state of New York for allegedly arranging hush money payments to an adult film star who claimed to have had an affair with him in 2005.
Additionally, Trump is under investigation in Georgia for his alleged involvement in attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.
There is also the possibility of a fourth case arising from federal investigations into the January 6, 2020 riots, where Trump’s supporters aimed to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden as the winner of the election.
Upon his arrival at the courthouse, Trump went through the standard booking procedures, including fingerprinting, but was not required to take a mugshot.
The judge determined that he did not pose a flight risk and subsequently released him without any movement restrictions. Outside the court, Trump’s lawyer, Alina Habba, accused the criminal justice system of being weaponized against the former President.
Before heading to the courthouse, Trump shared a message on Truth Social, stating, “ON MY WAY TO COURTHOUSE. WITH HUNT!! MAGA.” The reference to “HUNT” and “MAGA” reflects his election campaign slogan, Make America Great Again.
Television crews followed his motorcade, similar to the events in April in New York, while hundreds of his supporters gathered outside the courthouse.
After the hearing concluded and Trump departed with his legal team, an incident occurred where a man was wrestled to the ground by the Secret Service for obstructing Trump’s vehicle. Further details about the man and his intentions were not immediately available. (Edited)