Donald Trump faces multiple charges related to the handling of classified documents, and has pleaded not guilty during the reading of them in federal court in Miami. Their attorney, Todd Blanche, said they will plead not guilty and requested a jury trial. During the hearing, Trump remained silent, showing a reflective attitude. In addition, his assistant, Walt Nauta, was also arrested and his statement was taken, although his trial will not begin until June 27.
During the hearing, Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman barred communication between Trump and Nauta about the case, and also ordered prosecutors to draw up a list of potential witnesses Trump could not communicate with except through his lawyer. However, no travel restrictions were imposed on any of the accused.
rThe Justice Department recommended that both Trump and Nauta be released without financial or special conditions, as the government did not consider them to pose a flight risk. During the hearing, the judge thanked the police community for their work.
Before the arraignment, the former president’s fingerprints were taken and electronic copies were made. A mugshot was not taken because of his easy recognition. The booking process took approximately 10 minutes.
The Justice Department classified documents case involves serious legal consequences for Trump, who is considered a possible GOP nominee for the 2024 election. During the arraignment, special prosecutor Jack Smith was present.
After the court hearing, Trump made an unannounced stop at the Cuban restaurant Versailles in Miami, where he was greeted by his supporters. There, he shook hands and took pictures with them. At one point, his followers sang “happy birthday” to him as it coincided with his day of birth.
Trump expressed his opinion on the government, describing it as “out of control” during his visit to the restaurant. He will then fly back to New Jersey, where he is scheduled to give a public address in the evening at his Bedminister resort.
Before going to court, Trump shared on his social media his perception that the day was one of the saddest in the country’s history, and expressed concern about the current situation, describing the nation as in decline.